Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Bsun Ragdoll

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the pros and cons of various options. The Gateron Ink Black V2, a long-time community favorite, is celebrated for its smooth downstroke and a rich, bassy clack that appeals to those who appreciate a tactile auditory experience while typing. This switch is characterized by its polished feel, providing a low-pitched and mild sound that many users favor for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll offers its own unique advantages, featuring a Y3 stem that ensures smooth travel combined with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, which produces a distinctive clacky sound. While both switches are linear and prioritize smoothness, the Ink Black V2 leans towards a more subdued auditory experience, whereas the Ragdoll emphasizes a livelier noise profile. Each switch serves different preferences, making them attractive choices within the mechanical keyboard community. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

Bsun Ragdoll Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Black V2 and Bsun Ragdoll switches both utilize distinctly different housing materials, resulting in contrasting auditory and tactile experiences. The top housing of the Ink Black V2 is made from a proprietary INK blend known for its high-pitched and pointed sound profile, often described as "clacky." This emphasizes a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy sharper acoustic feedback while typing. In contrast, the Ragdoll utilizes a nylon top housing, which is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than the harder INK blend, leading to a rounder auditory experience that contrasts with the Ink Black V2's brighter tones.

Similarly, the bottom housings reflect this distinction in material use. The Ink Black V2’s proprietary INK blend bottom housing carries forward the same high-pitched sound profile, contributing to a consistent feel of sharpness when bottoming out. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing of the Ragdoll again provides a fuller sound profile while typing, further emphasizing the switch's ability to absorb sound. Thus, while both switches may offer unique characteristics, the Ragdoll's construction fosters a softer, more subdued typing feel compared to the Ink Black V2, which punches through with a more pronounced feedback.

Due to the differing characteristics of their housings, users might achieve different types of typing experiences when comparing the two switches. However, if both switches were to be constructed with similar housing materials, one could expect a more unified sound profile throughout the keypress, blending the benefits of both housings. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Bsun Ragdoll would depend on personal preference, particularly for typists who may favor the lively clack of the INK blend or the muffled, warm tones produced by nylon. Despite the differences, both switches have their own appeals—one enhancing sharp auditory feedback, and the other offering a cushioned, rounded sound palate.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch to the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Ink Black V2 features an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Ragdoll boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, marking it as medium-light. This difference means that the Ink Black V2 provides a heavier push feel, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Ragdoll caters to those seeking a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, if you're looking for lower actuation and bottom out forces, the Ragdoll is the way to go, whereas the Ink Black V2 offers more resistance for a more pronounced keystroke feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, the Ink Black V2 stands out with a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ragdoll features a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This slight difference emphasizes the characteristics each switch offers; the Ink Black V2 caters to those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke, providing a hearty depth that can feel satisfying during use. On the other hand, the Ragdoll, with its shorter travel distance, appeals to gamers and users seeking faster response times, which can facilitate quicker actions in gaming or typing scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference—whether one favors a deeper, more traditional key press or the efficiency of a slightly shorter travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched, bassy tone that provides a rich and mellow auditory experience during typing. This switch has a unique chirpy quality, introducing a subtle squeak that sets it apart from its peers, enhancing the overall typing experience. The sound profile can vary based on the keyboard build and keycap choice, but the general low-frequency rumble gives it a comforting acoustic signature. Meanwhile, details about the sound profile of the Bsun Ragdoll switch are unknown, so it’s not possible to compare its auditory characteristics directly.

When it comes to feel, the Ink Black V2 linear switch is notable for its mild and polished characteristics. The mildness of the switch results in a gentle, approachable typing experience that does not overwhelm users, making it suitable for prolonged use. The polished nature indicates a smooth and refined key travel, likely aided by quality materials and possibly factory lubing, which minimizes friction and maximizes comfort. In contrast, no specific information about the feel of the Bsun Ragdoll switch is available at this time, leaving its tactile experience uncertain.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch stands out with its distinct sound profile and comfortable feel, making it a strong choice for newcomers to mechanical keyboards. The bassy, low-pitched sound, coupled with its mild and polished feel, suggests a well-rounded experience for typing. Although the Bsun Ragdoll’s specific sound and feel characteristics remain unknown, both switches offer the potential for smooth travel, so users might find a familiar experience in tactile performance despite limited comparisons.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences for key feel and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy press and enjoy a typing experience that combines smoothness with a rich, low-pitched tone, the Ink Black V2 is an excellent option. Its 70 grams bottom-out force provides a satisfying resistance that many typists find appealing, while its polished feel ensures a refined and enjoyable experience. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with a more accessible 52 grams bottom-out force, the Bsun Ragdoll might be better suited to your needs. While it may not have as pronounced a sound profile as the Ink Black V2, its smooth travel facilitated by the Y3 stem makes for a highly enjoyable key press that works well for both typing and gaming. Ultimately, if you value a deeper, bassy sound combined with a more substantial feel, go for the Ink Black V2; if you prefer lighter keystrokes with a unique clacky sound, the Ragdoll is the way to go.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Ragdoll Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more