Gateron Mini i vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to the tactile experience and the sound profile that best suits your typing style and environment. For those looking for a gentle yet responsive feel, the Gateron Mini i stands out as a popular choice. Its tactile feedback is subtle and pleasing, providing a satisfying keystroke without the disruptive noise that might distract in a shared workspace. These switches are lightweight and designed for long typing sessions, making them ideal for office professionals seeking comfort and quietude. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll, classified as a linear switch, offers a distinctly different experience. With its Y3 stem facilitating smooth travel and a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a clacking sound, the Ragdoll appeals to users who enjoy an uninterrupted keystroke without tactile bump but appreciate a bit of auditory feedback. Each switch presents unique advantages tailored to different preferences; 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and Bsun Ragdoll both utilize nylon as the primary material for their switch housings, encompassing both the top and bottom components. This choice of material is significant, as nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing sessions. The characteristics of the nylon contribute to a sound that is notably softer and more rounded compared to switches made with harder plastics. Consequently, users of both switches will experience a similar acoustic performance, largely due to the sound-dampening qualities of nylon, which absorbs sound and minimizes resonance.
On closer inspection, both switches share identical housing materials for both the top and bottom. This consistent utilization of nylon means that any differences in feel or sound between the two might not stem from the materials themselves but could instead arise from other design factors, such as the switch mechanism or spring tension. Despite these external differences potentially influencing the overall typing experience, the intrinsic characteristics of nylon ensure that users will generally enjoy a similar auditory experience, characterized by the muted and rounded sound that the material is known for.
However, it is vital to note that even though the housing materials are the same, the overall tactile feedback and acoustic output will still play out uniquely based on the construction and internal components of each switch. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and tactile feel while the top housing influences the sound and sensation when releasing a key. Thus, while the Gateron Mini i and Bsun Ragdoll exhibit similar material properties that can generate comparable sound profiles, subtle design elements can result in variances in experience that potential users may want to consider.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Mini i features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a softer touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Ragdoll switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. This difference indicates that users may find the Ragdoll switch offers a firmer feel compared to the Mini i, which caters to the lighter preference. Overall, while both switches are relatively light, the Gateron Mini i is the lighter option, making it preferable for those who seek comfort during prolonged use, while the Bsun Ragdoll is better for users who appreciate a heavier touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Mini i has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Ragdoll features a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Mini i may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for more rapid key presses. Conversely, the Ragdoll's lengthier travel distance could be favored by those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile experience, offering a sense of depth during use. Thus, if responsiveness is a priority, the Mini i is the more suitable choice, whereas if a deeper feel is desired, the Ragdoll would be preferable.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Mini i switch exhibits a neutral profile, creating a moderate acoustic signature that suits a variety of environments, from home to office use. The subtlety of its sound ensures that it remains unobtrusive, making it ideal for shared workspaces where minimal distraction is key. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch has a clacky sound, likely attributed to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing; however, specific descriptions of its sound characteristics are not provided. The fundamental difference here is that while the Mini i promotes a quieter atmosphere, the Ragdoll may introduce a more pronounced auditory experience.
Regarding feel, the Gateron Mini i stands out for its bouncy, easy-to-press characteristics. Users will appreciate the low actuation force required to activate the switch, which minimizes finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the mild tactile feedback adds a layer of finesse to the experience, alongside a snappy responsiveness that enhances the overall typing engagement. The Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, however, lacks detailed descriptions of feel, meaning its user experience remains a bit of a mystery. While linear switches typically provide a smooth keystroke without the tactile feedback of a bump, the absence of specific qualitative data makes it difficult to equate the Ragdoll's response with that of the Mini i.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is well-suited for those seeking a balanced, comfortable, and discreet typing experience, especially in professional settings. It offers a versatile sound profile and a dynamic feel characterized by its gentle resistance and responsiveness. Meanwhile, the data on the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch hints at a more pronounced sound with less tactile feedback, though specific qualities of its feel are unclear. Ultimately, if a user desires either a subtle, quiet experience or a more vibrant auditory journey, the Gateron Mini i and the Bsun Ragdoll may fulfill their needs in different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended environment. If you prioritize a light, tactile experience for long hours of typing, particularly in an office setting, the Mini i is an excellent choice. Its subtle tactility and muted sound offer a comfortable typing experience while keeping noise to a minimum, making it ideal for shared workspaces. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smoother, more pronounced feel with a bit of a clacky sound for gaming or creative work, the Ragdoll linear switch might be more suitable. With a slightly higher actuation force, the Ragdoll provides a responsive feel that can enhance gaming performance while also delivering a satisfying auditory experience. Ultimately, consider where and how you plan to use your keyboard, and let that guide you in making the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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