TTC Iron vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly influence your typing experience. The TTC Iron and the Bsun Ragdoll are two popular linear switches that offer unique characteristics catering to different preferences. The TTC Iron stands out with its light actuation force and pronounced clacky sound signature, making each keystroke not only responsive but also pleasurable to hear. This combination of features is ideal for users seeking a swift and enjoyable typing experience, perfect for both gaming and productivity. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll boasts smooth travel thanks to its Y3 stem and a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, creating a lighter, quieter feel while maintaining a satisfying clacky sound. This makes the Ragdoll an excellent pick for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience without sacrificing smoothness. Both switches cater to enthusiasts and casual users alike, but their differing qualities can sway your choice based on personal preference. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
41g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Iron and Bsun Ragdoll, several similarities and differences can be observed. Both switches utilize materials that contribute to a deeper, more muted sound profile during use. The Iron features POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both the top and bottom housing, known for producing a unique sound that is on the deeper side. Similarly, the Ragdoll employs nylon for its top and bottom housing, a material characterized by its softer nature, resulting in a sound that is equally deep and fuller. While both materials deliver a sound that is less harsh compared to harder plastics, the specific qualities they impart to the sound attributes can vary due to their inherent material properties.
Despite their shared characteristics in producing a favorable sound profile, the fundamental differences in material composition between POM and nylon lead to varying auditory and tactile experiences. POM is generally recognized for its durability and smoothness, which contributes to a more refined typing experience. In contrast, nylon's softer characteristics allow it to absorb sound more effectively, reducing impact noise and creating a more rounded auditory experience. This distinction means that while both switches create similar sound results, the feel and response of the switches may diverge based on the mechanical interaction of the two different materials when pressed.
Ultimately, the interaction of top and bottom housings plays a critical role in the overall performance and sound of the switch. In the case of the TTC Iron, the muted underground sound from the POM bottom housing is paired with the refined auditory effects of the POM top, while the Ragdoll's nylon bottom resonates with the fuller sound signature of its nylon top. Thus, despite their diverging materials, players can experience similar results in terms of sound and feel due to the intentional design of both switches, combining the characteristics of their respective housing materials to provide an engaging typing experience. The nuances of sound and tactile feedback can be contextualized within the unique engineering that each switch embodies, resulting in a fulfilling user experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Iron linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, there are noticeable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Iron has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, positioning it in the medium-light category. This makes the Ragdoll a better fit for users who appreciate a more substantial feel while typing. As such, while both switches offer a smooth linear experience, the TTC Iron would be favored by those seeking a softer touch, while the Ragdoll would appeal to those who prefer a bit more resistance.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Iron linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch feature a travel distance of 3.8 mm, meaning that they have identical specifications in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity indicates that users can expect the same tactile experience and keypress response from both switches. A consistent travel distance like this can contribute to similar performance during typing and gaming, providing a sense of fluidity and responsiveness across both switch types. Therefore, if you're considering either of these switches, you can look forward to achieving comparable results when it comes to travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 TTC Iron linear switch stands out with a distinct clacky sound signature that adds a sharp and snappy audio element to every keystroke. This results in a crisp and bright sound profile that can be appealing, especially to those who enjoy a more engaging audio feedback while typing. In contrast, the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch is designed with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, which contributes to its clacky sound. While both switches offer auditory satisfaction, the Iron provides a more defined clacky quality, making it a more sonically vibrant choice for enthusiasts who appreciate a pronounced auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron switch excels with its remarkably light actuation force, facilitating effortless key presses that lead to extended, comfortable typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. Its buttery smooth travel enhances the overall typing experience, providing just enough resistance to allow for precise control. On the other hand, details regarding the feel of the Ragdoll switch are undisclosed, which makes direct comparisons challenging. However, one might anticipate that its Y3 stem aims to ensure a smooth typing experience, although without specific descriptors, it's hard to define how it might stack up against the thoroughly detailed Iron.
In summary, both the TTC Iron linear switch and the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch present unique qualities catering to varying preferences. The Iron differentiates itself through its pronounced clacky audio feedback and exceptional ease of use, making it an attractive option for both types of users. While the Ragdoll also promises a clacky sound, its overall characteristics in terms of feel remain unclear. Users looking for acoustic engagement are likely to enjoy both switches, but those who value a complete understanding of tactile and auditory sensations may find the TTC Iron to be the more comprehensive choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch depends largely on what you prioritize in your typing experience. If you value a light touch coupled with a pronounced, clacky sound, the TTC Iron is your best bet. Its 50-gram actuation force makes it easy to press, allowing for quick, fatigue-free typing—an excellent choice for those who type extensively, whether for work or leisure. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer action in your keystrokes with a sound that still leans towards being clacky, the Bsun Ragdoll with its 52-gram force might suit you better. The Ragdoll’s unique nylon-fiberglass construction enhances its durability while offering a smooth travel feel, making it ideal for users who appreciate a moderate typing resistance without sacrificing the enjoyable sound profile. In essence, if you are after ultimate comfort and a lightweight feel, go for the Iron; but if you seek a blend of smoothness and a bit more resistance, the Ragdoll will likely be your preferred choice.
Mentioned in this article
