Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between two unique options: the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Bsun Ragdoll, both of which are linear switches that cater to different preferences. The Lightning Silver V3 is widely celebrated for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, creating a lively acoustic experience while typing. This switch, produced by Haimu, offers a silky, seamless sensation with the added benefit of a light diffuser that enhances RGB illumination, making it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy vibrant and visually stunning keyboard setups. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll focuses on smooth travel, utilizing a Y3 stem and a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing to deliver an impressive typing experience characterized by a resonant clack. While both switches provide a linear typing feel, the differences in sound profile and construction make them appealing for different users. 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
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Bsun Ragdoll switches, a clear distinction emerges between the two types of plastics used in their construction: polycarbonate for the Lightning Silver V3 and nylon for the Ragdoll. Polycarbonate, known for its rigidity, creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, contributing to a more articulate typing experience. This quality enhances the acoustic response of the switches, making them particularly compatible with RGB lighting due to their translucency, which allows light to pass through vividly. In contrast, the nylon housing of the Ragdoll offers a softer texture that results in a deeper, rounder sound profile. The inherent absorption qualities of nylon permit a more muted response, which some users may prefer for a more subdued typing experience.
Examining the bottom housings of these switches reveals a similar pattern in material choice. The Lightning Silver V3 utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, reinforcing the sharpness and clarity integral to its overall design. Conversely, the Ragdoll's nylon bottom housing complements its top housing's characteristics by providing a fuller and richer sound profile as you bottom out the key. This interplay between the bottom-out sound and feel illustrates how different materials contribute distinctly to the switch's acoustic properties, with polycarbonate enhancing brightness and clarity while nylon lends depth and warmth.
Despite the differences in materials, users can still enjoy comparable performance outcomes based on how these housing types interact. While the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate top and bottom houses provide a consistent crispness throughout, the Ragdoll's dual nylon construction creates a smooth and cohesive acoustic experience. The distinct attributes each housing material brings to the table allow for personalized typing experiences, serving different preferences among users. Ultimately, whether one prefers the bright resonance of polycarbonate or the muted richness of nylon, both switches deliver enjoyable tactile feedback and sound profiles, allowing users to achieve satisfying results tailored to their individual typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, we can observe notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lightning Silver V3 has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Ragdoll features a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. This makes the Ragdoll the lighter option, catering to those who may prefer a more effortless typing experience suitable for longer sessions. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3, with its heavier forces, provides a more substantial and tactile feel, which may appeal to users desiring a firmer push. Even though both switches operate within a medium force range, the Ragdoll's lower actuation and bottom out forces lend themselves to a softer typing experience compared to the heavier feel of the Lightning Silver V3. Consequently, each switch caters to different preferences, whether for extended use or a more pronounced feedback during typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Lightning Silver V3 features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Ragdoll has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly affect the typing experience; the shorter 3.4 mm distance of the Lightning Silver V3 offers quicker response times, appealing particularly to gamers who prefer more immediate feedback. On the other hand, the Ragdoll's 3.8 mm travel distance caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes, which can enhance overall typing comfort for some users. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for responsiveness versus a more traditional feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, producing a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when activated. This auditory experience is ideal for those who appreciate a sharper, more vibrant typing feedback. In contrast, while specific auditory descriptors for the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch are not detailed, its construction with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing suggests it may deliver a distinct sound as well, possibly leaning towards a clacky tone. Ultimately, sound quality can be influenced by additional factors like the keyboard's overall design and the keycap material used, which means both switches could provide a lively acoustic experience depending on these variables.
In terms of feel, while the Lightning Silver V3 lacks a specific feel description, it is popularly regarded for offering a silky and seamless typing experience that facilitates a smooth travel motion. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll features a Y3 stem, which is intended for smooth travel as well, suggesting both switches aim to deliver a comparable tactile experience. However, the nuances in feel may become more apparent during actual usage, and personal preference will play a significant role in determining which one may be favored.
In conclusion, both the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switches appeal to users seeking a pleasurable typing experience, yet they present unique characteristics in terms of sound. While the Lightning Silver V3 delivers a distinct high-pitched and clacky tone, the Ragdoll may offer a similarly engaging auditory experience due to its construction. When it comes to feel, both switches promise smooth operation, although specific tactile feedback might vary for individual users. Ultimately, both options can cater to those who appreciate seamless operation while also enhancing the aesthetic of any keyboard setup through their unique sound profiles and build quality.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switches, your preferences for key feel, sound, and pressing force will significantly influence your decision. If you enjoy a medium bottom-out force with a distinctly clacky and high-pitched sound, the Lightning Silver V3 would be your go-to option. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate audible feedback while typing and want enhanced RGB illumination due to its light diffuser feature. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of only 52 grams, the Ragdoll switch might be more suitable for your typing style. While it also offers a smooth travel experience thanks to the Y3 stem, it leans towards a more subtle sound profile compared to the Lightning Silver V3. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you seek a more engaging auditory experience or a softer, quieter typing environment. Each switch holds appeal, so consider what aspects of your mechanical keyboard experience matter most to you.
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