Outemu Lime vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and the Bsun Ragdoll present compelling but distinct options for users. The Outemu Lime switches are notable for their lightweight construction and subtle tactile feedback, making them an appealing choice for those who desire a typing experience that is both gentle and satisfying. Ideal for tactile enthusiasts, these switches deliver a muted sound profile while maintaining a polished feel, perfect for long typing sessions or even gaming without the noisy distractions. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switches offer an entirely different experience with their Y3 stem designed for smooth keystrokes and a nylon-fiberglass housing that produces a pleasant clacky sound. This makes them an excellent option for users who prioritize seamless key travel and enjoy a classic linear feel, especially in fast-paced gaming scenarios. Both switches have their merits depending on your personal preferences, but 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
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Lime and Bsun Ragdoll utilize nylon for both their top and bottom switch housings, resulting in similar acoustic and tactile properties. This choice of material is significant, as nylon is known for its softer composition compared to other plastics, which enables it to absorb sound more effectively. Consequently, typing on both the Lime and Ragdoll switches produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, which can appeal to users seeking a more muted acoustic experience. The consistent use of nylon in both housings ensures that the overall performance in terms of sound dampening will be relatively uniform across both switch types.
While the primary material for both the Lime and Ragdoll is the same, the impact of the housing configuration—top versus bottom—on the user experience must be considered. Given that both switches feature nylon top and bottom housings, they will share similar auditory characteristics in terms of sound profile. However, the top housing is more influential in the sound produced during key release, while the bottom housing predominantly affects the bottom-out sound when the key is pressed. This distinction could lead to subtle variations in user feel, but the inherent properties of nylon will lead to a comparable sound experience for both switches.
In terms of potential differences, one could argue that the overall feel of the switch may vary depending on other internal components or switch design details, such as spring tension or stem shape. However, since both switches rely on nylon for housing, any distinctions in performance should be minimal, primarily stemming from individual switch mechanics rather than material properties. Consequently, users of both the Outemu Lime and Bsun Ragdoll can expect a similar auditory and tactile experience rooted in the inherent characteristics of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Outemu Lime features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions due to its low resistance. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll requires a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, offering a slightly more substantial feel while still being manageable for prolonged use. Consequently, the Lime is the lighter option, which might appeal to those who prioritize comfort during long typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Ragdoll, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, may be favored by users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile experience. Overall, the Light provides a softer touch, while the Ragdoll delivers a firmer response to keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Outemu Lime features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Bsun Ragdoll has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that if you opt for the Lime switch, you will experience a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, which is often preferred by gamers seeking quicker actuation. In contrast, the Ragdoll's longer 3.8 mm travel distance may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience, providing a depth that some find more satisfying. Therefore, if you prioritize a quicker response, the Outemu Lime is the better option, while the Bsun Ragdoll caters to those who appreciate a more traditional, hearty switch 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 Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40 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 comparing the sound characteristics of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, the Lime is notably muted, providing a softer and quieter auditory experience that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. Its neutral sound profile lends itself well to a variety of environments, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned typists. In contrast, while specific details about the sound of the Ragdoll linear switch are lacking, its construction with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing generally contributes to a clackier sound. This difference implies that the Ragdoll may produce a more pronounced auditory feedback, making it better suited for those who enjoy a livelier typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Lime switch excels with its milder resistance and feathery touch, delivering a gentle typing experience that is both comfortable and approachable. Its subtler characteristics ensure that users can type with minimal exertion, which is particularly advantageous for extended sessions. The polished nature of the Lime switch also promises smooth key travel. Conversely, there is no detailed information on the feel of the Ragdoll switch, leaving its tactile experience undefined. However, linear switches are typically known for their smooth and unimpeded key presses without tactile bumps, suggesting a different experience compared to the slightly tactile Lime.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lime tactile switch stands out for its muted sound and incredibly light, refined feel, providing an ideal choice for individuals seeking a gentle typing experience without a distracting noise profile. Meanwhile, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch is likely to offer a more pronounced auditory experience, while its tactile properties remain a mystery. Overall, if you prioritize a quiet, smooth typing experience with light resistance, the Lime is your go-to. However, if a more prominent sound profile is your preference, the Ragdoll may be worth exploring.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you appreciate a lightweight feel with a gentle tactile bump, the Lime switches excel in providing a pleasant typing experience while minimizing finger fatigue. Their muted sound profile makes them ideal for shared workspaces or quiet settings, allowing you to type comfortably without disturbing others. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly more substantial actuation force and prioritize a smooth, linear typing experience with a touch of clackiness, the Ragdoll switches are your best bet. They offer a medium-light resistance that can enhance the satisfaction of each keystroke, making them suitable for both gaming and daily tasks where you seek a bit more auditory feedback without overwhelming noise. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what you value most in your typing experience—whether it's the light and subdued tactility of the Limes or the smooth and responsive nature of the Ragdolls.