Gateron Melodic vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the vast array of mechanical keyboard switches available, the Gateron Melodic and the Bsun Ragdoll stand out as representative of two distinct switch types: clicky and linear, respectively. The Gateron Melodic rejuvenates the clicky switch genre, allowing users to enjoy its characteristic crunchy sound and tactile feedback while experiencing enhanced smoothness, thanks to innovative features like factory lubrication and dual-railed stems. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll provides a seamless typing experience through its Y3 stem and nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, delivering a clacky sound without the tactile feedback associated with clicky switches. Both switches cater to different preferences, making the Melodic ideal for those who crave auditory and tactile stimulation, while the Ragdoll appeals to users seeking a quieter, buttery smooth typing 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
The housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and Bsun Ragdoll switches present a distinct contrast in their overall acoustic profiles due to the differing materials used. The Melodic switch features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile when typing. This material not only enhances the clarity of the sound but also works effectively with RGB lighting, showcasing the aesthetic appeal of its translucence. In contrast, the Ragdoll uses a nylon top housing, a classic choice for switch designs. Nylon's softer properties lead to a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound and creating a more rounded auditory experience. Therefore, while the Melodic excels in brightness and clarity, the Ragdoll offers warmth and depth, showcasing their diverging sound profiles resulting from their top housing materials.
The bottom housing for both switches is made from nylon, which introduces a consistency in the auditory experience regarding the bottom-out sound. Since nylon is known for its sound-absorbing characteristics, both the Melodic and Ragdoll switches share similarities in this aspect. The use of nylon in the bottom housing means that both switches will deliver a fuller and more muted sound on bottoming out, leading to a uniform auditory experience across both models when a key is pressed down. This shared characteristic indicates that while their top housings provide contrasting sound profiles, the use of nylon in the bottom section allows for a combined effect where the typing feedback remains consistent.
When it comes to the interaction between the two sections of the switch housings, it becomes clear how each switch would feel during use. The polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic influences the sound when keys are released, giving a sharper auditory feedback, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to the deeper sound on bottoming out. Comparatively, the Ragdoll's top housing dampens the release sound, resulting in a more muted experience overall, while still providing the softer, fuller sound through its nylon base. Thus, even though both models utilize nylon for the bottom housing, the differing materials in their top housings lead to an interesting juxtaposition of auditory experiences, demonstrating how the combination of materials plays a crucial role in the resulting sound and feel of each switch during typing motion.
Weight
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch offer distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Melodic switch has an actuation force listed as None grams, which leaves its performance during initial keystrokes unclear, while it features a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a medium pressure required to fully press the key down. In contrast, the Ragdoll switch has a more defined actuation force of 45 grams and a lower bottom out force of 52 grams, categorized as medium-light. Consequently, the Ragdoll switch provides a lighter typing experience overall, ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions, while the Melodic’s heavier bottom out force may appeal to those who favor a more substantial feel under their fingers. Ultimately, if you're seeking a switch that allows for prolonged periods of use without fatigue, the Ragdoll is the better option, whereas the Melodic may satisfy those desiring a stronger push feel, especially during bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, the Gateron Melodic stands out with a travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the Bsun Ragdoll features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Gateron Melodic offers a more pronounced depth during key presses, which can cater to users who appreciate a hearty feel when typing. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll, with its shorter travel distance, may provide a quicker response, appealing to gamers and those who prefer a more immediate interaction with their keyboard. While both switches offer distinctive experiences, the Melodic's 4 mm travel distance makes it the longer option, perfect for those who favor a more traditional feel, whereas the Ragdoll's 3.8 mm distance caters to those seeking a faster, more nimble performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Melodic clicky switch produces a distinctly resonant and crunchy sound profile, making each keystroke an auditory experience with a higher pitch and sharpness that is both immersive and satisfying. This sound is reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, giving a delightful auditory feedback that many users of clicky switches enjoy. The Ragdoll linear switch, however, does not have a specific sound profile mentioned, but it is known to produce a clackier sound due to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. Ultimately, the Melodic offers a more classic clicky sound that pairs well with the nostalgic appeal of typing on a mechanical keyboard, while the Ragdoll's sound may vary depending on the overall keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Melodic switches stand out with their buttery smoothness and invigorating feedback. The buttery characteristic ensures that the keystrokes glide effortlessly, providing a seamless typing experience. Meanwhile, the invigorating aspect brings in a pronounced tactile feedback that stimulates the typist's fingers, making each keystroke feel snappy and proactive. In contrast, there is no specific tactile description available for the Ragdoll. However, being a linear switch, it is typically characterized by a smooth travel without the tactile bump, providing a different sensation that some users may prefer for gaming or fast typing.
In conclusion, if you’re considering either of these switches, it's essential to weigh their distinctive auditory and tactile experiences. The Gateron Melodic excels in providing a classic clicky sound and engaging feedback with a smooth typing experience, while the Bsun Ragdoll offers a clackier sound profile and a smoother linear feel. Depending on your preferences—whether it be the satisfying click of a Melodic or the smoothness of a Ragdoll—both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences; it all boils down to personal taste in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and style. If you find joy in the classic auditory feedback and tactile sensation of a clicky switch, the Melodic is your go-to option. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams provides a fulfilling weight, making each keystroke feel gratifying. The smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems enhance the experience, ensuring that you can enjoy both the satisfying click and buttery-smooth travel without any of the typical drawbacks associated with clicky switches. This makes the Melodic ideal for gamers and typists who thrive on responsiveness and the invigorating feedback that a clicky switch offers. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter and smoother experience, especially for prolonged typing sessions or a more subdued environment, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, with its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams, would be a better fit. The Ragdoll’s focus on smooth travel allows for effortless typing, reducing finger fatigue while eliminating distracting sounds. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal typing style: choose the Melodic for an engaging and sonorous feedback experience, and opt for the Ragdoll for a sleek, whisper-quiet action that promotes speed and comfort.
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