Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear options can significantly affect your typing experience. The Gateron Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch that stands out with its high-precision molds and unique softer backlight effects. Its dual-stage springs offer a satisfying tactile bump and ensure a strong return, making it perfect for typists who enjoy feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch is known for its smooth travel, courtesy of its Y3 stem and a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a pleasing clacky sound. This switch is ideal for gamers or typists who prefer an uninterrupted keypress without tactile resistance. Each switch brings its own character and benefits — the Jupiter Banana for those who treasure tactile feedback and a polished typing experience, and the Ragdoll for those who seek smoothness and efficiency. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Bsun Ragdoll, key differences emerge, particularly in the construction of their top housings. The Jupiter Banana features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its crisp and resonant sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper auditory experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a clearer and higher-pitched typing sound. In contrast, the Ragdoll opts for a nylon top housing, which is softer and significantly absorbs sound. This softness results in a deeper and fuller sound, offering a more subdued auditory experience with a rounded quality. While both switches provide distinct sound profiles affected by their top housings, the Jupiter Banana caters to those seeking brightness, whereas the Ragdoll is better suited for users who enjoy a more muted tone.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which serves to dampen sound and enhance the typing experience. This shared material means that the impact of the bottom housing is similar across both switches, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile regardless of the differences observed in their top housings. Both the Jupiter Banana and the Ragdoll will feel plush and supportive at the bottom-out stage, where the softer nylon helps to absorb the sound produced by the keypress, leading to a satisfying typing experience overall. Thus, while the top housing creates divergent auditory settings, the identical material in the bottom housing ensures that users will still experience a certain consistency in the feel and sound at the bottom of the keystroke.
In summary, the choice of top housing material significantly influences the character of each switch's auditory output. The Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate housing provides a bright, clear sound suitable for RGB lighting setups, while the Ragdoll's nylon housing yields a more muted, resonant tone. However, both switches share a common ground with nylon bottom housings, which help to create a fuller typing experience. Therefore, if one desires a combination of both switch characteristics, there exists a potential for users to achieve a balanced outcome by taking advantage of the bottom housings, regardless of the differing qualities presented above.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, significant differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jupiter Banana features a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that may appeal to users who prefer a firmer feedback. In contrast, the Ragdoll, with a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, caters to those seeking a more effortless typing style, suitable for long work hours or extended gaming sessions. Thus, the Jupiter Banana is the heavier switch, while the Ragdoll is the lighter option. These differences suggest that while both switches offer unique tactile sensations, the choice ultimately depends on the user's preference for typing feel and force exertion.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, we find that the Jupiter Banana has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Ragdoll features a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference makes the Jupiter Banana the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers and those seeking a quicker response time, as shorter switches can facilitate faster key presses. In contrast, the Ragdoll's longer travel distance provides a more pronounced feel that some users might prefer for its hearty depth and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding responsiveness and tactile depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Jupiter Banana tactile switch delivers a high-pitched, resonant auditory experience that is both sharp and crisp. This characteristic makes it suitable for those who prefer a cleaner and more elevated sound profile, steering clear of deeper, bass-heavy tones. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch does not have a specified sound profile, but it is common for linear switches to produce a quieter typing experience compared to tactile or clicky switches. Thus, if you're looking for a more pronounced auditory feedback in your typing, the Jupiter Banana outshines the Ragdoll.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Banana switches excel with their polished and creamy tactile experience. The smooth and refined finish of these switches enhances the overall typing experience, offering reduced friction and a silky sensation. This luxurious feel can make long typing sessions more enjoyable. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch lacks detailed description regarding its tactile feedback, but linear switches typically prioritize smooth key travel without the noticeable tactile bump found in tactile switches like the Jupiter Banana. Therefore, while both switches aim for a pleasant typing experience, the Jupiter Banana provides a more refined tactile sensation.
In summary, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Banana offers a distinct auditory profile, paired with a polished and creamy typing experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate tactile feedback and enhanced sound. On the other hand, the Ragdoll’s qualities may appeal to individuals seeking a quieter and smoother line of travel, although specific details about its tactile feel are absent. If key features like sound and feel are your primary concerns, selecting the Jupiter Banana will yield a more defined experience, while the Ragdoll might suit those who prioritize smoothness and may value subtle operational sounds less.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you enjoy a tactile experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 69 grams, the Jupiter Banana may be the ideal option for you, especially if you appreciate a high-pitched, resonant sound and a polished, creamy feel while typing. Its tactile bump can aid in preventing accidental key presses, making it great for both typists and gamers who desire a solid response. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 52 grams, the Ragdoll might be more up your alley. Its linear nature ensures a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback, which is excellent for fast typists or gamers seeking swift, uninterrupted key presses. Since it is designed for a clacky sound profile and silky travel, it can also add a pleasing auditory element without the tactile distraction. Thus, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize tactile feedback and auditory sharpness with the Jupiter Banana, or the smoothness and lighter actuation of the Ragdoll.
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