Cherry MX Brown vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style, especially when comparing the Cherry MX Brown and the Bsun Ragdoll switches. The Cherry MX Brown is well-regarded for its subtlety, offering a light typing feel complemented by a gentle tactile bump and soft, low-pitched audio feedback. This combination makes it an ideal choice for typists and gamers alike who appreciate a more nuanced response without excessive noise. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll switch takes a different approach with its linear design, designed with a Y3 stem for incredibly smooth key travel paired with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a characteristically clacky sound. This makes the Ragdoll attractive for those who prefer an unbroken keystroke experience, especially in high-speed typing or gaming scenarios. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on your needs, whether you favor tactile feedback for typing precision or a smoother keypress for rapid input. 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
55g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown switches and the Bsun Ragdoll switches, it becomes evident that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality indicates that both switches are built from a material recognized for its specific acoustic properties. Nylon’s soft characteristics allow for a deeper, fuller sound profile, which is consistent across both switches. When typing on either the Cherry MX Brown or the Bsun Ragdoll, users will experience a similar auditory experience due to the inherent sound absorption qualities of nylon that mitigate harsher sounds and create a more muted, rounded auditory feedback.
Despite sharing the same material, the impact of the housing on the overall typing experience may vary based on the design and construction of each switch. While both top and bottom housings of the MX Brown and Ragdoll are Nylon, their performance could differ slightly due to other variables like spring tension or switch design. The bottom housing is crucial for the bottom-out sound and tactile feel, meaning that while the nylon will reduce sound resonance effectively in both switches, nuances in their designs may lead to distinct experiences. The tactile feedback when bottoming out may feel different despite the same material being used.
Ultimately, both the Cherry MX Brown and Bsun Ragdoll switches leverage nylon's remarkable acoustic properties, providing a favorable sound profile that enhances the typing experience. Users can expect a similar auditory response when using both, characterized by a muted yet satisfying tone, resulting from the same material properties. Consequently, even though minor differences in feel or action may arise from their individual constructions, the reliance on nylon helps maintain a consistent experience between the two. This shared foundation in housing material solidifies their comparative nature and underscores how both switches aim to deliver an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, we find that both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive and suitable for those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Ragdoll requiring 52 grams to bottom out compared to the MX Brown's 55 grams. This indicates that while both switches provide a similar feel when initially pressed, the Cherry MX Brown offers a firmer resistance at the end of the keystroke. As a result, the Ragdoll switch may feel slightly more forgiving during intense typing or gaming, while the MX Brown offers a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a bit of extra weight in their typing experience. Overall, both switches cater to medium-light preferences, with the Ragdoll being marginally lighter at the bottom out point.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Cherry MX Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Ragdoll measures slightly shorter at 3.8 mm. This means that users who prefer a more substantial keypress and a hearty depth would likely gravitate towards the Cherry MX Brown, as its longer travel distance allows for a more pronounced tactile feedback. Conversely, gamers and those who favor quicker, more responsive keystrokes might find the Bsun Ragdoll's shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm more suitable for their needs, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, the Cherry MX Brown offers a deeper, more traditional typing experience, while the Bsun Ragdoll caters to a preference for speed and efficiency in key presses.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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
When considering the sound profiles of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, they present contrasting characteristics. The Cherry MX Browns have a **bassy** and **low-pitched** sound, offering a deeper and richer auditory experience with each keystroke. This type of resonance provides an inviting atmosphere, making them suitable for environments where quieter, less jarring sounds are preferred. On the other hand, while specific sound descriptors for the Ragdoll are not provided, its construction featuring a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing implies a potentially clackier tone. Consequently, the Ragdolls may produce a sound that contrasts with the mellowness of the MX Browns, thereby catering to different auditory preferences. However, it's essential to note that the overall sound also heavily depends on the keyboard's build and keycap material, meaning both switches could potentially deliver a unique auditory experience depending on these external factors.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Brown switch is characterized by its **textured** sensation, offering a subtle tactile feedback that makes it recognizable during typing. This textured quality introduces a certain friction that can be either a deal-maker or breaker for users, as some may favor the sensation of pressing through that texture. The Ragdoll switch lacks a specific description in terms of feel, which leaves its tactile experience unknown. However, because the Ragdoll is marketed as a linear switch, it is generally expected to provide a smoother and more consistent keypress without the tactile bump found in the MX Brown. This fundamental difference would appeal to users seeking a seamless typing experience, suggesting that the feel between the two switches caters to different preferences and styles of usage.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Brown and Bsun Ragdoll switches are designed to appeal to different types of users, they each provide unique qualities in sound and feel. The MX Brown's bassy and textured nature lends itself to a subtle yet rewarding typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy feedback without overwhelming noise. Meanwhile, without detailed descriptors for the Ragdoll, it's challenging to ascertain its exact feel; however, its linear nature suggests a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, as both switches can deliver satisfying results within their designed profiles.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between Cherry MX Brown tactile switches and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches, your typing style and preferences play a crucial role. If you appreciate a subtle tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience without being overly pronounced, the Cherry MX Browns are an excellent choice. Their medium-light actuation force of 55 grams, coupled with a deep, bassy sound profile, makes them ideal for both typing and gaming in environments where noise levels matter. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke with a lighter actuation force of 52 grams, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switches may be more suited to your needs. These switches excel in delivering a fluid typing experience without the tactile bump, making them particularly appealing for fast-paced gaming and long typing sessions where comfort is paramount. Ultimately, your personal preference for tactile feedback versus linear smoothness will dictate your perfect choice between these two switches, allowing you to tailor your mechanical keyboard experience to fit your unique style.
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