HMX Deep Navy vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Deep Navy and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Deep Navy is celebrated for its rich, sharp sound profile, enhanced by its full nylon construction, which combines durability with an enjoyable auditory experience. Its Ly stem provides an impressively silky smoothness with each keystroke, making it an excellent choice for typists who value a refined tactile feel and sound. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll is distinguished by its Y3 stem, designed for smooth travel, and its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, which results in a clacky sound that can be particularly satisfying for gamers or anyone who enjoys a more expressive keystroke. While both switches offer linear characteristics that promote a seamless typing experience, their unique sound profiles and build materials present different sensory experiences that could sway your choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Bsun Ragdoll, it's noteworthy that both switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housing. This choice of material emphasizes the common goal of both models to achieve a profound and resonant typing experience. The distinctive attributes of nylon contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile, which is particularly desirable for users who appreciate a richer auditory feedback while typing. Furthermore, the relatively softer nature of nylon allows these switches to dampen sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound that is often preferred in more tactile typing experiences.
Both the Deep Navy and Ragdoll’s nylon housings translate to minimal differences in the overall sound signature produced during use. Since both models share the same material characteristics, the variations in sound may stem from other aspects such as switch design or actuation mechanics, rather than the housing material itself. When pressed, users can expect a consistent auditory experience, as both switches showcase the advantages of nylon's sound absorption qualities. The performance of each switch remains cohesive, making them suitable for users desiring clarity in the sound produced while providing an agreeable tactile response.
Additionally, while the shared use of nylon in both switch models leads to similarities in sound profile and feel, it is important to recognize how the top and bottom housings will uniquely influence the user experience. The bottom housing primarily governs the feel and sound when the key bottoms out, while the top housing significantly affects the acoustics released when the key is released. Even though both models will provide a rounded and dampened sound due to their nylon composition, the subtleties in actuation and release may create unique interactions, allowing users to choose between them based on preferences for top and bottom-out feedback without drastic differences stemming from the housing materials themselves.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to various typing preferences. The Deep Navy switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer minimal resistance, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Ragdoll switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, giving it a more substantial feel that some may find satisfying for a robust typing experience. As such, those who enjoy lighter switches will gravitate towards the Deep Navy, while those who appreciate a bit more weight will prefer the Ragdoll. Overall, the Deep Navy is the lighter option, whereas the Ragdoll is the heavier one, providing distinct tactile experiences to cater to different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, there is a noticeable difference: the Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ragdoll's travel distance is slightly longer at 3.8 mm. This makes the Deep Navy the shorter of the two switches, which may appeal to gamers who favor quicker response times due to the reduced distance needed for activation. On the other hand, the Ragdoll, with its deeper travel, may provide a more substantial feedback experience for users who prefer a more pronounced key feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference regarding the balance between responsiveness and tactile depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
The Bsun Ragdoll has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ragdoll for $3.29.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch offers a rich and sharp profile, thanks to its full nylon construction, which can contribute to a pleasant acoustic experience when typing. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch provides a clackier sound due to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. This distinction indicates that while both switches share a linear nature, the Deep Navy tends to produce a smoother and more refined sound, while the Ragdoll adds an element of auditory liveliness that some users might prefer when typing.
Regarding feel, the Deep Navy switch is renowned for its silky smoothness with every keystroke, delivering a consistently enjoyable tactile experience that contributes to efficient typing or gaming. Similarly, the Ragdoll switch also boasts smooth travel facilitated by the Y3 stem, ensuring a responsive typing experience. Although both switches excel in smoothness, the Deep Navy’s focus on silkiness may offer a more luxurious feel, while the Ragdoll may have a slightly different character thanks to its unique stem design.
In conclusion, both the HMX Deep Navy and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Deep Navy delivers a quieter, smoother typing experience with its rich acoustic profile, while the Ragdoll brings a brighter, clacky sound along with a solidly smooth keystroke. If you are seeking a switch that emphasizes auditory richness and silky smoothness, the Deep Navy is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a livelier sound coupled with a similarly smooth key travel, the Ragdoll might be your preferred option. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound characteristics or tactile feel in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you value a lighter actuation force and a smooth, immersive typing experience with a rich sound profile, the Deep Navy switch may be the better choice for you. Its construction and silky keystroke feel make it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or if you prefer a quieter workspace without sacrificing that satisfying auditory feedback. Conversely, if you appreciate a slightly firmer bottom-out force for more tactile feedback and a clackier sound while typing, you might gravitate towards the Bsun Ragdoll. Its Y3 stem and nylon-fiberglass housing offer a distinct sound and touch that can enhance your gaming or typing experience with a bit more resistance. In the end, consider what aspects of sound and feel resonate with you most—whether you lean towards the smoothness and softness of the Deep Navy or the firmer, clacky nature of the Ragdoll. This decision will ultimately shape your keyboard experience, so choose the switch that aligns with your preferences.
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