KTT Laurel vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Laurel and the Bsun Ragdollare two enticing options for enthusiasts looking for a linear feel. The KTT Laurel is celebrated for its medium-light actuation, offering a delightful balance of responsiveness and comfort, thanks to its full POM housing and long pole design. This switch emits a subtly low-pitched sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll impresses with its Y3 stem that fosters smooth travel, combined with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that contributes to a distinct clacky sound, appealing to users who enjoy an auditory element in their typing. Both switches cater to different preferences, whether you lean towards a snappy yet low-key experience with the KTT Laurel or a smoother, more resonant engagement with the Bsun Ragdoll. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the KTT Laurel and the Bsun Ragdoll in terms of their housing materials, both utilize different plastics that contribute to their unique acoustic properties and tactile experiences. The KTT Laurel features POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings. This material is known for producing a distinct sound profile that is deeper and more muted, which is particularly appealing to users looking for a subtle auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll employs nylon for both housing parts, which is considered a classic in switch design. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and more rounded auditory profile, enhancing the acoustic characteristics upon keystroke.
Although the KTT Laurel and the Bsun Ragdoll employ different materials—POM and nylon respectively—the outcomes in terms of sound signature can appear similar due to the shared quality of producing deeper auditory feedback. Both switches emphasize a fuller sound profile, but the nature of how they produce those sounds differs. In the case of the Laurel, the POM construction lends a unique crispness to the muted sound, while the Ragdoll's nylon focuses on a duller tone. Therefore, while the materials differ, the overall goal of achieving a satisfying keypress sound experience aligns closely.
The nuances in housing material also extend to the tactile experience of the switches. With the KTT Laurel, the POM material contributes to a sound that has more punch at the bottom-out point, complemented by a distinct release sound, which is influenced by the top housing. Conversely, the Bsun Ragdoll's nylon construction offers a softer feel with a sound that is less impactful at the bottom-out, but might provide a smoother transition when releasing the key. As such, users who are sensitive to sound and feel will find that while both switch designs aim for a satisfying and deep acoustic signature, they achieve it through different material properties, leading to varied tactile feedback. Thus, both switches ultimately offer comparable outcomes in terms of sound depth, yet cater to different preferences in user experience.
Weight
The KTT Laurel linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch exhibit distinct characteristics when it comes to their actuation and bottom out forces. The Laurel has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a favorable option for those who prefer a softer touch, suitable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Ragdoll features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This additional resistance may appeal to users who appreciate a firmer push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. While both switches offer a smooth linear feel, the Laurel is the lighter option overall, making it ideal for those who prioritize ease of use during prolonged use. Thus, users looking for a switch that allows for longer typing without fatigue may lean towards the KTT Laurel, whereas those who prefer a bit more tactile resistance might find the Bsun Ragdoll to be a better fit.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, the KTT Laurel measures 3.5 mm while the Bsun Ragdoll has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This indicates that the Laurel provides a shorter travel experience, which can appeal to gamers seeking quick response times. On the other hand, the Ragdoll's longer distance may offer a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference; if you favor a more responsive keystroke, the Laurel is the optimal choice, while the Ragdoll may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 KTT Laurel linear switch has a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which contributes to a warmer and more mellow auditory experience. This low-pitched characteristic enhances the tactile atmosphere of typing, making it feel comfortable and less intrusive in quieter settings. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch is known for its clacky sound, which is often attributed to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. This material can contribute to a sharper and more pronounced auditory feedback, potentially offering a more engaging soundscape for typists who enjoy a bit of acoustic excitement. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound of both switches can be influenced by the choice of the keyboard, case materials, and keycap design.
In terms of feel, the KTT Laurel switch is characterized by a snappy responsiveness. This feature typically stems from a combination of the switch's medium-light actuation force and its longer pole design, resulting in a typing experience that feels lively and engaging. Users often appreciate this snappiness, as it enhances their connection to the act of typing. On the other hand, the feel of the Bsun Ragdoll has not been specifically described in the information provided. Therefore, without additional details, it's difficult to compare its tactile feedback directly with that of the Laurel.
In summary, when comparing the KTT Laurel and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches, both possess unique sound profiles that cater to different auditory preferences, with the Laurel offering a low-pitched and mellow tone and the Ragdoll providing a clackier sound. Feel-wise, the Laurel excels with its snappy responsiveness, while the tactile experience of the Ragdoll remains unknown. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth, quieter typing experience or a more pronounced auditory engagement. Both can offer satisfying results based on individual preferences and the specific keyboard setup you choose.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Laurel and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the type of experience you’re seeking. If you prefer a lighter and more responsive switch with a low-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Laurel would be your best bet. Its 50-gram bottom-out force and snappy feel make it ideal for fast-paced typing and gaming, where quick response times are crucial. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly firmer switch with a bit more weight and a clacky sound, the Bsun Ragdoll, with its bottom-out force of 52 grams, may suit you better. The Ragdoll's Y3 stem design provides smooth travel, making it an excellent option for those who appreciate a tactile typing experience but want to maintain that linear feel. Therefore, consider the Laurel for a lighter, more lively typing experience and the Ragdoll if you're after a touch of heft and auditory feedback in your keystrokes.