Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Bsun Ragdoll are two linear options that stand out for their unique characteristics and user experiences. The Gateron Lunar Probe is particularly appealing for those seeking a stable and smooth typing or gaming experience, thanks to its innovative dual rail mechanism that ensures consistent keypresses. This switch also comes pre-lubed, offering a buttery feel with a discreet sound profile that caters to both quiet environments and discerning users. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch is known for its Y3 stem, which provides effortless travel, complemented by a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that generates a distinctive clacky sound. While the Lunar Probe excels in smoothness and stability, the Ragdoll offers a more vibrant auditory feedback with its lively acoustics. Both switches have compelling attributes that cater to different preferences, making them excellent choices depending on what aspects are most important to you in your keyboard experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Double-staged spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Lunar Probe and the Bsun Ragdoll both showcase remarkable craftsmanship in the world of mechanical keyboard switches, particularly in their housing materials. The Lunar Probe features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This material is optimized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, contributing to a clearer auditory experience, ideal for those who prioritize the sound character of their typing. In contrast, the Ragdoll utilizes a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer composition that absorbs sound waves more efficiently. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a more muted auditory feedback that can be preferred for creating a quieter typing experience. While both switches serve the user dynamically, their differing top housing materials cultivate unique sound profiles that cater to distinct preferences.
The bottom housings of both switches introduce another layer of complexity but align thematically in their use of nylon material. Both the Lunar Probe and the Ragdoll feature nylon as their bottom housing material, thereby creating a consistency in the deeper sound profile associated with nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. This uniformity means that, regardless of the differences in their top housing materials, users can expect an improved bottom-out sound and feel that is characteristic of nylon. The shared bottom housing gives the switches a fullness that can make the overall typing experience feel rich and substantial, regardless of which top housing is used.
Together, these contrasting materials yield a multifaceted auditory experience when typing on each switch. The polycarbonate top of the Lunar Probe shines in clarity and brightness, enhancing the feedback felt when releasing a key. Meanwhile, the Ragdoll's nylon top housing provides a soothing roundness that likely moderates sound to create a different tactile experience when typing. Ultimately, the combination of these materials in each switch allows for a diverse range of sound profiles, while the nylon bottoms ensure a consistently deep and resonant base that creates a cohesive experience between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means users will experience similar ease when triggering keystrokes. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Lunar Probe at 50 grams and the Ragdoll at 52 grams. This means that while both switches offer a light actuation feel, the Ragdoll provides a bit more resistance when fully depressed, giving it a slightly heavier overall feel compared to the Lunar Probe. Consequently, the Lunar Probe is the lighter switch, making it more suitable for users who prefer longer typing sessions with less finger fatigue, while the Bsun Ragdoll, being a touch heavier, offers a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, the Lunar Probe features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ragdoll offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Ragdoll switch allows for a bit more keypress depth, which may be preferable for users who enjoy a more robust feel when typing or gaming. Conversely, for those who favor quicker response times, the shorter travel distance of the Lunar Probe could be more appealing, as it might facilitate faster actuation. Therefore, for a more responsive experience, the Lunar Probe is the better option, while if you prioritize a deeper keypress, the Ragdoll switch would be your choice. Ultimately, the 0.2 mm difference in travel distance highlights the nuanced preferences between users regarding switch feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe switch is characterized by a subtle sound signature that emphasizes a more muted auditory experience during use. This is largely due to its design, which aims for stability and consistency. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch is noted for producing a clacky sound, courtesy of its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. This difference in sound profile means that while the Lunar Probe offers a quieter experience, the Ragdoll might appeal to those who enjoy pronounced auditory feedback, although both sound characteristics can be affected by external factors such as the keyboard’s build and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Lunar Probe provides an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, making it a pleasure to type or game on without any undesired resistance or friction. This smoothness is complemented by Gateron's innovative dual rail mechanism, which ensures stability in each keypress. The Ragdoll, with its Y3 stem, is also designed for smooth travel, allowing for a fluid typing experience as well. Therefore, while both switches prioritize smoothness, the Lunar Probe leans heavily into a refined sensation, whereas the Ragdoll's feel is enhanced by its unique stem design.
In conclusion, when weighing the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switches, both offer appealing features suitable for different preferences. The Lunar Probe excels in providing a quiet and exceptionally smooth experience, while the Ragdoll caters to those who prefer a more audible and clacky sound without sacrificing the smooth travel of a linear switch. Ultimately, selecting between these two will depend on whether you prioritize sound profile or feel in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a very light switch and prioritize a smooth, stable keypress with a subtle sound signature, the Lunar Probe is likely your best option. Its lower actuation force of 50 grams makes it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming where rapid key presses are essential, while its pre-lubed design enhances the tactile experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel and appreciate a distinct clacky sound, the Ragdoll may be more to your liking. With its medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams and robust nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, it offers a balance between smooth actuation and an auditory feedback that some users find satisfying during typing or gaming. Your choice should also consider whether you value sound, feel, or actuation force more, ensuring that your switch aligns with your tactile and auditory preferences.
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