KTT Matcha vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches plays a critical role in customizing the typing experience, and two popular options are the KTT Matcha and the Bsun Ragdoll. The KTT Matcha, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its comfortable and snappy feel, creating an engaging typing experience enriched with a distinctly clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. This switch appeals to those who enjoy tactile feedback, making it ideal for typing and gaming alike. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll stands out as a linear switch, featuring a Y3 stem that provides smooth and uninterrupted key travel. The nylon-fiberglass bottom housing adds a clacky sound to the keystrokes, catering to users who prefer a quieter and more fluid typing performance. Each switch has its unique advantages that cater to different preferences—whether you seek the satisfying feedback of a tactile switch or the seamless motion of a linear one. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Bsun Ragdoll switches, a distinct difference is found in their construction that results in contrasting sound profiles. The KTT Matcha utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. This material is characterized by its stiffness, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The transparency of polycarbonate not only enhances the auditory experience but also provides the aesthetic advantage of showcasing RGB lighting, making it an appealing choice for gamers and typists who appreciate visual customization. The housing's rigidity translates into a more resonant sound that highlights the clarity of each keystroke, contributing to a more vibrant typing experience.
In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll features nylon for its top and bottom housings, which invokes a notably different acoustic quality. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material's ability to dampen vibrations leads to a rounder and duller auditory experience, providing a quieter and more subdued typing feel. A classic choice for switch housing, nylon evokes a nostalgic feel while still delivering a modern typing experience, particularly appealing to users who prefer a less harsh sound when typing quickly.
Although the housing materials are different, they each contribute economically to the overall performance of the switches while emphasizing various aspects of sound and tactile feedback. The KTT Matcha’s dual polycarbonate construction ensures clarity and brightness, making it ideal for users who enjoy an engaging typing experience with pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll’s complete nylon housing prioritizes comfort and warmth, suitable for those who prefer a gentler acoustic footprint. Thus, while the Matcha and Ragdoll switches serve different needs due to their material differences, they both effectively enhance the typing experience in distinct yet valuable ways.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Matcha switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, especially during extended periods of use. In contrast, the Ragdoll switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, positioning it as a medium-light option. This means that users seeking a more substantial and firm feedback while typing might find the Ragdoll switch more appealing. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch that provides quick and effortless actuation, the Matcha is the clear choice, while the Ragdoll may cater to those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, we see a notable difference. The Matcha has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ragdoll measures at 3.8 mm. This makes the Matcha the longer of the two, offering a more pronounced depth that some users may prefer for a solid tactile feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Ragdoll’s 3.8 mm travel distance means it provides a slightly quicker response, which can be advantageous for gamers looking for a snappier keypress. Those who favor a more responsive feel might choose the Ragdoll, while those who appreciate a deeper keystroke may opt for the Matcha. Overall, your choice will depend on your personal preference for either depth or responsiveness in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 Matcha tactile switch produces a distinctly clean bottom-out sound that is often characterized as clacky, offering a crisp, bright, and percussive quality during typing. This can give a pleasing auditory feedback that many typists appreciate, especially in environments where feedback is essential for productivity. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch is designed with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, contributing to a clacky sound; however, the specific nature of its sound has not been detailed. Both switches can exhibit variations in sound based on external factors like the keyboard construction and keycaps used, but the Matcha offers a more elaborative description of its audio characteristics.
In terms of feel, the KTT Matcha offers a multifaceted typing experience with descriptors such as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. This means that typists can expect a tactile feedback that is responsive and satisfying. The stepped nature of the switch allows for a clear distinction in the keystroke, while the snappy response enhances the overall typing experience. The feathery and subtle descriptors suggest that the Matcha is also comfortable for long typing sessions, providing a balance between tactile feedback and ease of actuation. Conversely, the Bsun Ragdoll lacks detailed descriptions of its tactile characteristics, leaving its feel largely unknown. Without specific tactile attributes mentioned, it can be inferred that users might find the Ragdoll to be a more straightforward linear experience without the nuanced feedback that the Matcha provides.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha tactile switch stands out with its clean sound profile and multifaceted tactile feel, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate both auditory and tactile feedback when typing. The Bsun Ragdoll linear switch offers an unknown but potentially smoother experience, focused on the linear action rather than tactile feedback. While both switches can produce satisfying typing experiences, those seeking a more intricate and responsive feel would gravitate towards the Matcha, while the Ragdoll could appeal to users who prefer a simpler, more fluid keystroke. Depending on personal typing preferences, both can deliver gratifying results, albeit in different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typical usage. If you prioritize a tactile feedback experience while typing, the Matcha is an excellent option, especially if you enjoy a responsive, snappy feel and a distinctly clean bottom-out sound. Its lighter actuation force of 45 grams makes it suitable for prolonged typing sessions, minimizing finger fatigue without sacrificing responsiveness. This switch is ideal for typists or gamers who appreciate a more dynamic typing experience and thrive on the medium tactility it provides. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother keystroke with a slightly heftier bottom-out force of 52 grams, the Ragdoll is the way to go. Its linear characteristics offer fluid motion without the tactile bump, which many find preferable for rapid key presses during gaming or for a more serene office environment. Additionally, the Ragdoll's unique sound signature can deliver a pleasing auditory feedback that can enhance your typing experience for those who enjoy that aspect. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by how you plan to use your keyboard—whether for typing, gaming, or a mixed-use scenario—ensuring that whichever switch you choose, it aligns with your comfort and performance preferences.
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