Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Bsun Ragdoll present two distinct yet appealing options for different typing preferences. The Jupiter Brown, a tactile switch, combines the classic keystroke feel with modern enhancements, offering a medium-heavy weight and a satisfying tactile bump that can enhance typing accuracy and feedback. Its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects not only ensure reliable performance but also elevate the visual appeal of your keyboard setup. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth, uninterrupted keystroke thanks to its Y3 stem design, making it an excellent choice for gamers and those who prefer a quieter, consistent typing experience. The nylon-fiberglass bottom housing contributes to a pleasant clacky sound, adding character to each keystroke. Each switch caters to unique preferences; ideal for those who enjoy tactile feedback or those who favor a smooth, linear response. 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
55g
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
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
The housing materials used in the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Bsun Ragdoll switches exemplify distinct characteristics that directly influence the sound profiles and tactile experiences of these switches. The Jupiter Brown's top housing is crafted from polycarbonate, a material known for its rigidity, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This quality allows the switch to produce a crisper auditory feedback when the key is released, making it particularly appealing for users who enjoy a more pronounced sound. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll features a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. This difference means that while both switches can deliver satisfactory auditory feedback, they offer distinctly different experiences—one being more resonant and clear, while the other is round and subdued.
Looking at the bottom housing of both switches, they share a significant similarity: both the Jupiter Brown and the Ragdoll utilize nylon. This commonality ensures that the bottom-out sound and feel across both switches will carry a deeper tone, thanks to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. Therefore, users can expect a consistent tactile sensation when pressing down on either switch, which is characterized by the softened sound profile that nylon provides. Since the bottom housing heavily influences the impact of the keystroke, both switches deliver a satisfying and plush typing experience, though the overall sound profile will still diverge based on the material of the top housing.
In summary, the contrasting top housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Bsun Ragdoll switches play a crucial role in shaping their respective sound profiles. The polycarbonate used in the Jupiter Brown lends a crisp and clear auditory experience, while the nylon top housing in the Ragdoll offers a softer, more muted sound. However, the shared nylon bottom housing contributes to a uniform bottom-out experience across both switches. Users seeking a sharper feel and sound will prefer the Jupiter Brown, whereas those wanting a more rounded and full auditory feedback will lean towards the Ragdoll. Ultimately, the interplay of the materials provides a rich palette of auditory sensations for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch to the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces are quite pronounced. The Jupiter Brown features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Ragdoll has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This indicates that the Jupiter Brown requires more effort to actuate and bottom out than the Ragdoll, making it better suited for users who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Conversely, the Ragdoll's lighter force is ideal for extended typing sessions, offering a more effortless and comfortable experience, particularly for prolonged use, such as at work or during long gaming sessions. Overall, if you're looking for a heavier feel, the Jupiter Brown is the preferable choice, while the Ragdoll is better for those who favor lightness.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Brown offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ragdoll has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference, although minimal, can influence the overall typing experience. For users who prioritize swift response times, the Ragdoll's shorter travel distance may be advantageous, catering to gamers and those who prefer quicker actuation. Conversely, the Jupiter Brown's greater depth provides a more substantial feedback, which some users might find more satisfying during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will hinge on personal preference for travel distance; those seeking a deeper feel should opt for the Jupiter Brown, while those favoring rapid responses might lean towards the Ragdoll.
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 Brown 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
The Gateron Jupiter Brown switch produces a sound that is balanced and gentle, characteristic of tactile switches, which typically give off a soft thock sound with a refined tone. This acoustic profile contributes to a pleasant typing experience without being overly loud or jarring. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch has a clacky sound, attributed to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. This material choice enhances the auditory feedback, creating a lively sound profile that can be more pronounced than the subdued thock produced by the Jupiter Browns. It’s essential to remember that the final sound output can be influenced by the keyboard's construction, keycap material, and overall configuration, which could somewhat level the differences in sound between these two switches.
When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Brown switch offers a mild and polished experience. This means users will encounter a gentle tactile bump that is not overly aggressive, making it approachable for a wide range of typists. The stepped tactile action allows for some pre-travel feedback before reaching the actuation point, providing just enough sensory engagement without overwhelming the user. In contrast, the feel of the Ragdoll switch is smooth and unadulterated, as expected from linear switches, which lack tactile feedback altogether. This smooth travel is made possible due to the Y3 stem design, allowing for uninterrupted keystrokes and a seamless typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Bsun Ragdoll switches serve different preferences in terms of typing experience, the Jupiter Brown leans towards a tactile, polished feel with a milder sound profile, whereas the Ragdoll provides a smooth, linear feel paired with a clackier auditory signature. Depending on your typing style and sound preferences, you can expect satisfying results from either switch, as they each cater to distinct needs within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a tactile feel that offers a traditional typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Jupiter Brown might be the ideal option for you, especially for tasks that require precision, such as typing or programming. Its medium-heavy actuation force and polished, mild feel create a refined experience that strikes a balance between comfort and feedback. However, if you prefer a smoother keystroke for fast-paced gaming or casual typing, the Ragdoll’s medium-light force allows for quick and effortless key presses, thanks to its linear design and the slick Y3 stem. This can be particularly appealing if you enjoy a quieter typing experience, as the Ragdoll is designed to produce a clackier sound without the tactile bump. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you prioritize the tactile feedback of the Jupiter Brown or the linear smoothness of the Ragdoll—a choice that will shape your typing experience and comfort.
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