Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Bsun Ragdoll both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Ink Box Pink is renowned for its smooth operation and lighter typing feel, providing users with an engaging experience characterized by a higher-pitched clack that adds a distinct auditory element to each keystroke. Its polished, silky texture contributes to a pleasurable typing journey, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a more refined touch. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll focuses on delivering a different sensory experience with its Y3 stem, ensuring a seamless travel while utilizing a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a noticeable clack sound. This aligns perfectly with users who may appreciate a more tactile auditory feedback without sacrificing smoothness. Both switches have their merits, whether you’re drawn to the elevated acoustics of the Ink Box Pink or the dependable nature of the Ragdoll. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your personal typing experience.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches to the Bsun Ragdoll switches, a notable distinction arises from the materials used for their housings. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, leading to a sound profile characterized by a pointed and high-pitched quality that offers a satisfying clack. This sound is often seen as bright and crisp, providing an engaging tactile experience. In contrast, the Ragdoll boasts a nylon top and bottom housing, materials that are traditionally known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in sound profiles can largely be attributed to the properties of the materials; the softer nylon provides better sound absorption, resulting in a rounder acoustic quality that is less piercing than that of the Ink Box Pink.
Additionally, the impact of the housing materials becomes apparent when considering the overall typing experience. The design of the Ragdoll, with its nylon housings, allows for a more muted sensation and a sound that is less sharp, appealing to users who prefer a gentler auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink, thanks to its proprietary INK blend, delivers a consistently high-pitched and clacky sound that can energize the typing experience. Users looking for distinct auditory feedback will find the Ink Box Pink appealing, while those who prefer a more subdued sound would gravitate towards the Ragdoll.
Despite their differences, if someone is aiming for a particular typing experience, both switches can deliver satisfying results depending on personal preference. The split personality of each switch, with INK's higher-pitched clack and nylon's fuller tone, influences how each housing contributes to the overall sound profile. Users who prioritize the sound made while releasing a key will notice the marked differences in top housing impact, while those focusing on the bottom-out experience will appreciate the varying qualities of each switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Ink Box Pink and the Ragdoll hinges on the user's individual taste and the particular sounds and sensations they value while typing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch with the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Box Pink requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Ragdoll features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light in weight. This distinction means that while the Ink Box Pink may provide a more substantial feel for users who prefer a heavier key press, the Ragdoll could be better suited for longer typing sessions or gaming, as its lighter forces encourage less fatigue. Overall, those seeking a more tactile experience might gravitate towards the Ink Box Pink, while those valuing comfort and endurance in their typing may prefer the Ragdoll.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch measures 3.6 mm, while the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This indicates that the Ragdoll switch allows for a more pronounced keypress due to its greater depth, making it potentially appealing for users who enjoy a sturdier feedback when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Ink Box Pink, with its shorter travel distance, may be preferable for gamers looking for quicker response times, as it facilitates a more immediate actuation. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences: if you enjoy a quicker, more responsive feel, the Ink Box Pink is the better option, while the Ragdoll may be more suited for those who appreciate a little more key travel for a richer typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Pink has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Pink for $7.65.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch stands out with its high-pitched clacky profile. This brightness provides a sharp and crisp auditory feedback that many typists enjoy, making each keystroke feel more satisfying. That said, the audio experience can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll switch also boasts a clacky sound, although the specifics are less clearly defined. The combination of its Y3 stem and nylon-fiberglass bottom housing suggests it may produce a similarly engaging sound, though without further details, we can't make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Regarding the feel, the Ink Box Pink switch is revered for its silky and polished typing experience. This smoothness makes the switches appealing, allowing for effortless key travel and minimized resistance during typing. The refined finish enhances this sensation even further, possibly due to its materials or factory lubrication. On the other hand, there is no additional information available about the feel of the Ragdoll switch. Without concrete descriptors like silky or polished, it remains unclear how its tactile response compares to that of the Ink Box Pink.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches offer distinct and engaging auditory experiences, though the Ink Box Pink's high-pitched sound is more precisely defined. The Ink Box Pink excels in a smooth and polished typing feel, providing a silky experience that might be more pleasurable for typists seeking that quality. While the Ragdoll also promises a clacky sound, its tactile qualities remain unknown, making it difficult to gauge a direct comparison in that regard. Ultimately, if you're aiming for a switch with notable smoothness and a brighter sound, the Ink Box Pink is a solid choice, while the Ragdoll might still deliver desirable clackiness, albeit with less certainty regarding its overall feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between Gateron Ink Box Pink and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound, and actuation force. If you enjoy a slightly firmer actuation with a medium bottom out force and prefer a smooth, silky typing experience combined with a high-pitched, clacky sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches are an excellent choice for you. They are particularly appealing if you appreciate a more refined key press that minimizes friction and offers a lightweight feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation that requires less force at 52 grams and enjoy the unique clacky sound profile that comes from a nylon-fiberglass housing, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switches would be your go-to option. Their design focuses on delivering a smooth travel experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming without straining your fingers. Ultimately, assessing your typing habits and what aspects you prioritize will help guide your decision between these two excellent switches.
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