Gazzew LT vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gazzew LT and the Bsun Ragdoll both offer unique experiences, yet cater to different preferences for tactile sensation and auditory feedback. The Gazzew LT switches are celebrated for their striking lilac hue and their signature "linear thock" experience, delivering deep, resonant sounds that provide an enjoyable auditory feedback during each keystroke. This makes them an ideal choice for users seeking a clicky, satisfying sound combined with a smooth typing experience characterized by low-pitched, thocky notes. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll switches offer a different feel with their Y3 stem, designed for exceptionally smooth travel along with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a distinct clacky sound, appealing to those who prioritize a more playful feel in their typing rhythm. While both switches are linear and provide a seamless glide, the choice ultimately hinges on whether you favor the robust thockiness of the LT or the lively clackiness of the Ragdoll. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and Bsun Ragdoll both utilize materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles, yet they exhibit notable differences in their housing compositions. The Gazzew LT is constructed with a proprietary blend known as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housings. This material is celebrated for its softness, which not only helps to absorb sound but also enhances the overall auditory experience by providing a rich and deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll employs traditional nylon for its top and bottom housings. While nylon is a well-established material in the mechanical keyboard community, it is also noted for its ability to create a fuller and deeper sound due to its soft characteristics.
Despite these differences in materials, the sound profiles generated by both the Gazzew LT and Bsun Ragdoll are comparable, primarily because both types of housing exhibit softer textures. The proprietary Gazzew blend in the LT and the nylon used in the Ragdoll both contribute to a rich auditory experience by dampening higher-frequency sounds and thus creating a more sonorous typing environment. When typing on either switch, users can expect a satisfying sound experience, showcasing a depth that resonates from the switch's housing materials. In this way, even though the specific materials differ, users will likely perceive a similarly warm and rounded sound profile.
In terms of functionality, the separation of the top and bottom housing materials ensures that each switch characterizes its own unique auditory feedback. With the Gazzew LT's top and bottom housings made of the same blend, the sound consistency from bottom-up and top-down strikes creates a harmonized result. Conversely, the Ragdoll's reliance on nylon for both housings allows for a distinctive tonal profile perceived with each keystroke, separating the qualities of the two. Ultimately, while both switches can deliver a comparable soundscape thanks to the softness inherent in their materials, the use of different housing materials invites users to explore variations in sound dynamics and feel between the two options.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, there is a notable difference in both their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Gazzew LT switch has an unspecified actuation force but a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This means that while the LT switch may provide a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom-out feel, it could also lead to fatigue during prolonged use due to the higher force required to bottom out. On the other hand, the Ragdoll’s lighter actuation and bottom-out forces suggest it is better suited for longer typing or gaming sessions, appealing to those who prefer less strain on their fingers. Consequently, for users seeking a more tactile and firm experience, the Gazzew LT would be a fitting choice, while those who prioritize comfort and low resistance should consider the Bsun Ragdoll.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, a distinct difference emerges. The Gazzew LT has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Bsun Ragdoll measures a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the LT, with its shorter travel distance, is likely to provide a more responsive feel, which can be particularly advantageous for gamers seeking quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Ragdoll offers a deeper experience, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial key press that doesn’t feel as abrupt. Thus, while both switches serve their purposes in different contexts, your choice will ultimately depend on whether you favor the responsiveness of shorter travel or the satisfying depth of longer travel.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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 sound profiles of the Gazzew LT and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches diverge significantly, influencing the auditory experience they offer to users. The LT switches are characterized by their rich, deep thocky sound, which remains muted but still produces a satisfying audio feedback with every keystroke. This low-pitched resonance creates an immersive typing experience, akin to a gentle thud that feels luxurious and impactful. In contrast, while the specifics of the Ragdoll's sound profile are less detailed, it is noted to have a "clacky" tone attributed to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. This material likely contributes to a higher-pitched sound compared to the LT's deep thockiness, offering a more pronounced auditory feedback that can be appealing to those who enjoy a slightly sharper sound during typing.
When it comes to feel, both switches aim for smooth keystrokes but with unique attributes. The Gazzew LT linear switches offer a seamless glide with each press, promoting an effortless typing experience. Unfortunately, details on the specific tactile qualities of LT switches are not provided. Meanwhile, the Ragdoll employs a Y3 stem designed for smooth travel, suggesting a focus on smoothness during key presses, but again, more specific insights into its tactile feedback or resistance are not given. This lack of detail makes it difficult to make direct comparisons, but both switches likely aim to provide a comfortable and fluid typing sensation, albeit in potentially distinct ways.
In conclusion, while the Gazzew LT switches excel in delivering a deep, thocky sound and a seamless glide in feel, the Bsun Ragdoll offers a clacky auditory experience with its unique housing material. Both switches seem designed for a smooth typing experience, but the difference in sound signature will cater to different preferences. Ultimately, if you value a rich, bass-heavy auditory experience, the LT might be the better choice, whereas if a lighter, more pronounced sound appeals to you, the Ragdoll could be worth considering. Selecting between them will largely hinge on your preference for sound while typing, as the feel remains somewhat similar in aiming for smoothness.
Conclusion
To conclude, when weighing your choice between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the experience you wish to achieve. If you appreciate a firmer keystroke with a bottom-out force of 65 grams along with a rich, bassy sound profile, the Gazzew LT is an excellent choice. Its "thocky" auditory feedback enhances the tactile experience, making it particularly appealing for typing enthusiasts who enjoy the rhythm and depth of each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 52 grams, the Bsun Ragdoll is designed for a smooth, satisfying glide that caters well to fast-paced gaming or typing without straining your fingers. Its clacky sound adds an engaging layer to your keystrokes, making it a fun choice for those who enjoy a more dynamic auditory feedback. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you prioritize a heavier, thocky feel or a lighter, snappier experience, allowing you to tailor your mechanical keyboard to your personal style and usage.