Durock Dolphin vs. Bsun Ragdoll

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and the Bsun Ragdoll offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Durock Dolphin stands out as a silent linear switch, making it a superb option for office environments or any setting where noise reduction is a priority. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, these switches deliver a satisfying press that balances precision with a noticeable heft—perfect for those who appreciate a switch with a bit more resistance. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll boasts a smooth travel experience, courtesy of its Y3 stem, along with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a clackier sound profile for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. While the Dolphin caters to noise-sensitive environments and tactile precision, the Ragdoll appeals to those seeking expressive sound and smooth activation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Dolphin Linear

Bsun Ragdoll Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Bsun Ragdoll switches, there are contrasting characteristics in their top housing that significantly influence their auditory profiles. The Dolphin features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This relatively stiffer plastic allows for greater clarity and resonance, making it particularly effective when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucence. In stark contrast, the Ragdoll employs a nylon top housing, known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softer qualities of nylon dampen sound waves, resulting in a more rounded and muted response. Thus, while the Dolphin's design aims for brightness and clarity, the Ragdoll seeks richness and warmth.

In examining the bottom housing, both the Dolphin and Ragdoll utilize nylon materials, aligning their characteristics in this aspect. The nylon bottom housing of the Dolphin shares the same sound-absorbing properties as that of the Ragdoll, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity means that regardless of the differences in their top housings, the overall bottom-out sound and feel for both switches are likely to have a consistent depth owing to the nylon material. Therefore, even though users may experience different auditory sensations when releasing keys, the act of pressing down on either switch will feel rich and satisfying because of the common nylon utilized in the bottom housing.

The disparity in the top housing materials thus results in distinct overall sound experiences between the two switches when engaged. The Dolphin's polycarbonate top amplifies and clarifies sounds created during key release, while the Ragdoll’s nylon top enriches the sound with softness and fullness. Nevertheless, because both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, they will offer a certain level of consistency in the tactile experience and bottom-out resonance. Consequently, while users can expect varied auditory signatures depending on the switch’s release due to differing top materials, the foundation provided by the nylon bottom housing ensures that both the Dolphin and Ragdoll deliver satisfying sound profiles when pressed.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dolphin switch has an unknown actuation force but features a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls into the medium range. In contrast, the Ragdoll has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This means that the Ragdoll switch is generally easier to press down, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Dolphin's controlled actuation and heavier bottom out provide a more substantial feel, appealing to those who favor a firmer push. Thus, for a typing experience that prioritizes ease and comfort, the Ragdoll is the better option, while the Dolphin may cater to those who enjoy a bit more resistance and feedback during use.

Travel distance

Both the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch share the same travel distance of 3.8 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on either switch. This equality in travel distance suggests that both switches will provide comparable key feel and overall responsiveness, making them suitable options for those who prefer a consistent linear switch performance. With this identical measurement, any differences in user experience would likely stem from other factors, such as actuation force or switch construction, rather than the travel distance itself.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched acoustic profile, making it a great option for those in quieter settings like offices. Its design minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical key switches, producing a softer and more bass-heavy tone that is both pleasant and unobtrusive. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch is noted for its clacky sound, suggesting a more pronounced auditory feedback during keystrokes, although specific descriptors for its sound characteristics are not provided. Thus, if you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Dolphin is clearly the better choice, while the Ragdoll may appeal to those who appreciate a livelier auditory response.

In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin stands out with its polished finish that provides a smooth and refined typing experience. This high level of smoothness is likely due to quality materials and factory lubing, ensuring reduced friction and a satisfying key travel that many typists seek. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll lacks specific descriptors regarding its feel, leaving a gap in understanding how it may compare in terms of smoothness or resistance. Without this information, it is difficult to gauge how the overall typing experience of the Ragdoll may rival that of the Dolphin.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch that provides a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Durock Dolphin is an excellent choice, boasting both muted sound and polished feel. The Bsun Ragdoll linear switch offers a clackier auditory feedback, which may attract those who favor a more vibrant typing experience, but detailed qualities regarding its feel are currently unknown. Thus, while both switches present engaging characteristics, your preference would ultimately dictate which switch aligns best with your typing environment and tactile desires.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, consider the context and your preferences. If you find yourself in a quieter workspace where noise control is essential, the Durock Dolphin is the way to go. With its muted, low-pitched sound profile and a medium-heavy actuation force of 62 grams, it provides a satisfying and precise feel that many typists appreciate, making it ideal for office settings or shared spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, the choice of the Bsun Ragdoll with its medium-light 52 gram actuation force might be more suitable. This switch offers a smoother travel experience thanks to its Y3 stem and is designed for those who enjoy a little more feedback and a slightly clacky sound. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a quieter, more substantial typing experience (Dolphin) or a lighter, smoother one with some character (Ragdoll).

Mentioned in this article

Durock Dolphin Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Ragdoll Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more