Cherry MX Orange vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Orange and the Bsun Ragdoll both offer distinct features that can elevate your typing experience. The Cherry MX Orange switches, which have been reintroduced with enhancements, are well-regarded for their reliable performance and tactile feel, making them a great choice for gamers and typists alike who appreciate a smooth keystroke with a slight bump for feedback without the loud click. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll switch offers a different appeal with its Y3 stem designed for ultra-smooth travel and a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a satisfying clacky sound. While both switches are linear, catering to users who prefer a quieter, uninterrupted typing experience, each switch has its unique characteristics suited for different preferences. The MX Orange may be preferable for those who enjoy a traditional and reliable feel, whereas the Ragdoll might attract those looking for a uniquely textured experience and auditory feedback. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
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 Cherry MX Orange and Bsun Ragdoll both utilize nylon as a material for their top and bottom switch housings, which leads to a number of similarities in their acoustic profiles. Given that nylon is known for its softer characteristics compared to harder plastics, both switches produce a deeper and fuller sound when typed on. This shared material results in a significantly muted and rounded auditory experience, as nylon absorbs sound rather than reflecting it sharply. Typing on either switch would likely yield a pleasantly subdued and rich sound profile thanks to this inherent quality of the nylon material.
Despite the identical use of nylon in both switches, they are each designed with unique configurations that can impact the tactile and auditory nuances experienced during use. The Cherry MX Orange is engineered for a specific actuation force and feel that may differ slightly from that of the Ragdoll. However, since both switches feature top and bottom housings made of the same material, users can expect a generally consistent sound quality regardless of switches used. When typing on either switch, an observer may find that similar tonal qualities emerge, allowing for a comparable acoustic experience across both products.
The differences in design and engineering choices, such as the shapes and mechanisms inside the housings, impact how each switch feels during actuation. Even though both the Cherry MX Orange and Bsun Ragdoll share the same nylon housing material that promotes a deep sound profile, other factors such as switch resistance and tactile feedback could lead to varied user experiences. Ultimately, while the material choice helps in achieving comparable sound absorption properties and a rounded auditory experience, enthusiasts may still note differences in feel and interaction due to nuanced design variations in the switches.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Cherry MX Orange requires an actuation force of 55 grams, making it a heavier option, while the Bsun Ragdoll is lighter with an actuation force of just 45 grams. This disparity suggests that users who favor a lighter switch may find the Ragdoll more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out force, the Bsun Ragdoll has a measurable force of 52 grams, providing a medium-light feel upon bottoming out. Conversely, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is unknown, which leaves a gap in direct comparison. However, the presence of a defined bottom out force in the Ragdoll could contribute to a more predictable typing experience. Overall, the Cherry MX Orange is best suited for those who appreciate a more substantial push feel, while the Bsun Ragdoll caters to those looking for a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, there is a notable difference in their specifications. The Cherry MX Orange has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional standard for key switches, providing a more substantial and hearty feel during use. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, catering more towards those who may prefer a quicker response time and a more snappy typing experience. Consequently, if responsiveness is a priority, the Ragdoll might be the more appealing choice, while those who enjoy the sensation of deeper key presses would likely gravitate towards the Cherry MX Orange. Ultimately, the Cherry MX Orange is the one with the longer travel distance, making it potentially more satisfying for users who prioritize depth in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Orange linear switch produces a smooth and quiet keystroke that is reminiscent of the original Orange switches, making it ideal for office environments or shared spaces where noise can be a concern. The sound profile is subtle and refined, allowing for a distraction-free typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch has a more pronounced clacky sound, attributed to its nylon-fiberglass construction. This characteristic can give a more tactile audio feedback that some users might find satisfying, while others might prefer the muted tones of the MX Orange. However, it's important to note that the overall sound will also depend on the specific keyboard and keycap materials used, which can alter the acoustic properties of either switch.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Orange offers a consistent and smooth linear actuation that leaves little room for misjudgment during typing, delivering a responsive experience that users tend to appreciate. This linear action ensures a fluid motion without any tactile bump, allowing for fast typing without any interruption. The Bsun Ragdoll switch also promises smooth travel thanks to its Y3 stem design, which is engineered for seamless key presses. Depending on personal preference, some users may find that the slight variations in the internal structure of the Ragdoll provide a different sensation during keystrokes compared to the MX Orange, although both are designed to deliver a linear feel.
In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Orange and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches offer their own unique qualities, especially in terms of sound and feel. The MX Orange is perfect for those prioritizing a quiet and refined typing experience, while the Ragdoll caters to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. Ultimately, users may gravitate towards either option based on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, but both switches are designed to ensure smooth and satisfying typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Orange and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch ultimately depends on your individual preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience with a moderate actuation force that gently responds to your keystrokes, the MX Orange is an excellent option. Its enhanced design caters to typists who appreciate a responsive key feel without overwhelming resistance. On the other hand, if you seek a switch that provides a bit more tactile feedback combined with a distinct auditory experience while still maintaining linear characteristics, the Ragdoll is a fantastic choice. Its medium-light actuation force makes it suitable for both typing and gaming, especially if you enjoy that clacky sound which can add character to your typing experience. Ultimately, selecting the right switch should align with your typing style and the kind of feedback you desire, so consider what feels best for you when making your decision.
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