Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Bsun Ragdoll offers enthusiasts two distinct yet appealing options in the realm of linear switches. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its robust 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, providing a satisfying medium-heavy resistance that can enhance typing precision and feedback. Its smooth travel, combined with a medium-high pitch auditory profile and a frosted light diffuser that elevates RGB lighting effects, makes it a popular choice for users seeking a blend of performance and aesthetics. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll features a Y3 stem design, which ensures exceptionally smooth keypresses and an inviting clacky sound, thanks to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. This switch emphasizes a different tactile experience, appealing to those who prioritize auditory feedback and a lightweight feel. Both switches cater to specific preferences and needs in the mechanical keyboard landscape, but they each bring unique strengths to the table. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Bsun Ragdoll, notable differences emerge in both sound profile and tactile feedback due to their distinct materials. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a top housing made from a proprietary INK blend, culminating in a high-pitched, clacky sound. This unique composition emphasizes a shinier and more aggressive typing experience. In contrast, the Ragdoll utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is known for providing a softer and more subdued sound profile. As nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, typing on the Ragdoll results in a deeper and fuller sonic character, making it conducive to a more muted yet warm auditory experience.
The varying materials do not only affect the auditory qualities but also the tactile feedback during typing. The G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and more nuanced sound profile that is relatively muted. This muted characteristic can enhance the bottom-out experience during typing, giving a sense of stability and smoothness. On the other hand, the Ragdoll’s nylon bottom housing also contributes to a rounded and less sharp sound profile. Its softer composition similarly results in a fuller auditory experience, enhancing comfort during extended typing sessions. Despite their differences, both keyboards yield pleasing acoustic results, though they cater to slightly different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Ultimately, while the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Ragdoll employ different materials for their top and bottom housings, they share an overarching focus on creating a satisfying typing experience. The contrasting acoustics may appeal to different users—those leaning towards a sharper, more pronounced sound may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Black, whereas those who favor richer and softer acoustics might gravitate towards the Ragdoll. Nevertheless, both switches will provide unique and enjoyable tactile feedback through the interaction of their respective housing materials, meaning individuals can achieve fulfilling typing experiences whichever option they choose.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch offer distinct typing experiences, particularly when comparing their actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch that caters to those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. In contrast, the Ragdoll switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, positioning it in the medium-light category for users seeking a softer touch. As a result, the G Pro 3.0 Black is ideal for typists who enjoy a firmer key press, which can enhance tactile feedback during prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while the Ragdoll is better suited for individuals looking for a responsive and less fatiguing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches hinges on personal preference, as they embody different strengths based on their weight characteristics.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch exhibit different travel distances, which can significantly impact user experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional preference for a more substantial keypress. In contrast, the Ragdoll offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, appealing to those who favor quicker response times often sought after by gamers. The difference of 0.2 mm may seem minimal, but it can lead to a more responsive feel with the Ragdoll switch for users who prefer a snappier action. Therefore, the G Pro 3.0 Black, with its longer travel distance, may be more suitable for individuals who appreciate a deeper and more robust feedback during typing, while the Ragdoll's shorter travel distance caters to those seeking agility. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding the balance between depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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
When considering the sound profile of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch, it offers a unique auditory experience characterized by a medium-high pitch accompanied by a slightly clacky texture. This clackiness provides a sharp and snappy feedback with a crisp and bright sound, which can enhance the tactile enjoyment during typing. In contrast, the BSUN Ragdoll switch is noted for its more subdued auditory characteristics, although specific descriptions are not available. The auditory quality of a keyboard switch can be influenced by various factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps used, making it essential for users to experiment to achieve their preferred sound. Overall, while the G Pro 3.0 Black delivers a crisper sound signature, the Ragdoll may offer a softer sound experience, giving users diverse options based on their sound preferences.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black stands out with a typing experience that is creamy and silky smooth. This is likely achieved through the materials used or factory-applied lubricant, allowing for an effortless gliding sensation during key presses. The switch maintains a medium-heavy actuation force, balancing sensitivity with control, which appeals to typists who enjoy a more grounded feel. On the other hand, the feel of the Bsun Ragdoll is not explicitly detailed, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares to the G Pro 3.0. The G Pro 3.0’s buttery typing experience may thus provide a direct contrast to whatever unique sensation the Ragdoll offers, indicating that users may need to test both options for a complete assessment.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch provides a well-rounded experience with its medium-high sound profile and creamy to silky feel, making it suitable for those seeking both auditory and tactile pleasure during typing. The Bsun Ragdoll switch presents an alternative with its clacky sound and potentially different feel, but without explicit details on the latter, it remains an open-ended comparison. For newcomers, these insights can help in making an informed decision, but trying both types is advisable to discover which switch aligns best with individual preferences. Ultimately, both switches cater to different aspects of the typing experience, ensuring that personal choice plays a significant role in the final determination.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, consider your specific preferences and typing style. If you favor a firmer, more substantial feel while typing, and don’t mind the added weight, the G Pro 3.0 Black’s medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams will provide satisfying resistance that translates into a robust typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback with its medium-high pitch sound, making it a good choice for users who enjoy a "clacky" tactile feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch for more comfortable prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Ragdoll linear switch, with its 52 gram bottom-out force, will suit your needs better. This switch aims for a smoother, more effortless keypress, ideal for fast and repeated typing or gaming without fatigue. The choice ultimately depends on whether you seek a more substantive typing experience with the G Pro 3.0 Black, or the lighter, more fluid feel of the Ragdoll.
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