Outemu Blue Jade vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue Jade and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, it's essential to understand the distinct characteristics that make each one unique, particularly when comparing the Outemu Blue Jade and the Bsun Ragdoll. The Outemu Blue Jade is a clicky switch, celebrated for its tactile feedback, which offers an auditory and physical confirmation with each keystroke. This makes it an appealing choice for typists who appreciate a pronounced sound and feel while typing, often enhancing the overall writing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll is categorized as a linear switch, designed for users who prefer smooth, uninterrupted key presses without the clicky sound associated with tactile switches. Its Y3 stem contributes to a seamless travel experience, while the nylon-fiberglass bottom housing provides a subtle clacky sound that adds character without overpowering the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preferences—whether one prioritizes the satisfying click of the Blue Jade or the silky smoothness of the Ragdoll. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue Jade and the Bsun Ragdoll mechanical switches, it's important to note that both switches feature identical components with regard to their use of nylon. The nylon material, recognized for its softer texture, plays a key role in shaping the auditory experience provided by both switches. This shared characteristic ensures that those who utilize either switch will notice a similar sound profile marked by a deeper and fuller resonance. The absorption properties of nylon result in a muted acoustic that is notably pleasing, establishing a sense of auditory warmth that can enhance typing enjoyment.
Not only do both the Blue Jade and the Ragdoll utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, but they do so consistently across each component. This uniform application of the same material posits that the acoustic and tactile feedback experienced while typing on both switches would be quite comparable. The deeper sound and rounded auditory response are a direct result of the nylon material's inherent qualities. Thus, regardless of the specific branding, users can expect similar performance outcomes.
Though both the Blue Jade and Ragdoll switches boast the same housing material, any variances in other components—such as spring tension or stem design—could influence the overall typing experience. However, since both switches share the same nylon composition for their housings, users will revel in a similarly cohesive sound and feel. The bottom housing’s impact on the bottom-out sound, coupled with the top housing’s influence during key release, further emphasizes how these switches can provide a rounded and harmonious typing experience, despite any other design intricacies.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Blue Jade requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which provides a more substantial tactile feedback for users who enjoy a firmer typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch, enabling extended typing or gaming sessions with less strain. Overall, the Blue Jade is the heavier option while the Ragdoll is the lighter choice, appealing to different preferences in typing feel and effort. Their distinct forces suggest that users will have varied experiences based on their individual needs; the heavier Blue Jade offers more feedback, while the lighter Ragdoll ensures ease and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, it is clear that the Blue Jade has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ragdoll features a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm may seem minor, but it can affect the overall typing experience. The longer travel distance of the Blue Jade may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and a deeper feel when typing. In contrast, the Ragdoll's shorter travel distance might be favored by gamers or users looking for quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on personal preference for depth and responsiveness.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch doesn't have a well-defined characteristic sound to highlight, while the Bsun Ragdoll presents a unique auditory profile due to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, which is known to produce a clacky sound. This contrast means that users seeking distinct acoustic feedback might favor the Ragdoll for its pronounced sound when typing. It’s important to acknowledge, however, that the sound produced by these switches can also vary greatly depending on the mechanical keyboard they are paired with and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Jade isn’t specifically characterized, leaving a gap in understanding its tactile experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch features a Y3 stem designed for smooth travel, resulting in a consistent and fluid keystroke without the tactile bumps or resistance associated with clicky switches. This smoothness may appeal to those who appreciate a direct and uncomplicated typing experience, but without the specific feel of the Blue Jade to compare it to, we lack a clear point of differentiation.
Overall, while the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch provides a smooth action and a clacky sound, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch remain less defined. For users looking for distinctive acoustic feedback, the Ragdoll is the more appealing option, whereas the feel of the Blue Jade is an unknown variable that could lead to a varied typing experience. If smoothness is what you're after, the Ragdoll stands out, but the lack of detailed characteristics for the Blue Jade leaves open the possibility that users might enjoy similar outcomes of either switch, depending on their preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, your personal preferences and typing habits will play a crucial role in your choice. If you enjoy a satisfying tactile feedback and an audible click when you type, the Blue Jade's medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams may appeal to you, especially if you type with a heavier hand and appreciate the authoritative feedback it provides. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Ragdoll's lighter 52-gram bottom-out force and its focus on silky travel might be more suitable. This switch is ideal for those who type quickly and want to avoid discernible noise while still experiencing a pleasing linear feel. Ultimately, if you are an avid gamer or a typist who focuses on speed and precision without the clicky distraction, the Bsun Ragdoll would likely enhance your overall experience. In contrast, if you desire a more traditional feel with a distinct audio cue, the Outemu Blue Jade will serve you well. Assessing your typing style, the environments in which you work, and your tactile preferences will guide you in selecting the switch that best complements your needs.