Outemu Cold Plum vs. Bsun Ragdoll

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cold Plum and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches each offer distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Outemu Cold Plum is celebrated for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a unique typing experience with a smooth keystroke that particularly appeals to enthusiasts who prioritize auditory feedback and tactile satisfaction. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll features a Y3 stem and a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing designed for a clackier sound, offering a different auditory experience while also delivering smooth travel for typing. Both switches cater to fans of linear types, but they embody different auditory aesthetics and tactile sensations, making either a valid choice depending on one's typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

Bsun Ragdoll Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Cold Plum and the Bsun Ragdoll switches share a commendable similarity in their housing materials, both crafted from nylon for both the top and bottom. Nylon, as a classic switch housing material, is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely due to nylon's relatively softer composition compared to harder plastics, which leads to enhanced sound absorption. Both switches, therefore, are likely to offer a duller and rounder acoustic experience, making them particularly appealing to users who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience.

Though both the Cold Plum and Ragdoll utilize identical housing materials, the characteristics of sound produced when interacting with these switches can vary slightly based on their design nuances. Since the top and bottom housings are both made from nylon, they each contribute distinctly to how the sound is perceived when a key is pressed and released. The bottom housing tends to influence the feeling and the sound when bottoming out, while the top housing affects the sound profile when releasing a key. Despite their similarities, any subtle variances in other elements of the switches, such as spring tension or stem design, could introduce differences in typing feel and overall acoustics.

Ultimately, users can expect a comparable typing experience from both the Outemu Cold Plum and the Bsun Ragdoll due to their shared nylon housing. Those seeking a sound profile that is immersive and full will find satisfaction from either switch option. Given that both switches employ identical materials, this creates a consistent baseline in terms of acoustic performance, allowing potential users to choose between them based on other preferences such as aesthetics or ergonomic design, while still enjoying the signature sound quality that comes with the nylon housing.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, distinct differences in actuation and bottom out forces become apparent. The Cold Plum requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and reaches a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Ragdoll features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a softer touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Thus, the Cold Plum is the heavier option, while the Ragdoll is the lighter one. Users who appreciate a stronger push feel may lean towards the Cold Plum, whereas those favoring lighter switches would likely benefit more from the Ragdoll's specifications.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Cold Plum features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option between the two, while the Ragdoll has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference can significantly impact user experience; for gamers seeking faster response times, the shorter 3.3 mm distance of the Cold Plum may be preferable, offering a more responsive feel. Conversely, the Ragdoll's 3.8 mm travel distance provides a deeper, more substantial keypress that some users may find more satisfying, especially those who favor a less abrupt typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches heavily depends on personal preference regarding travel distance and the desired tactile feedback during use.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Cold Plum switch produces a thocky sound profile, which is considered appealing and pleasant by many enthusiasts. This sound is enhanced by its fully nylon construction, contributing to a unique auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch offers a more clacky sound, attributed to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. While both switches exhibit distinct sound characteristics, the Cold Plum favors a deeper, thocky resonance, whereas the Ragdoll leans towards a sharper clack, leading to potentially different auditory experiences depending on the user's preference. It’s worth noting that the overall sound will also be influenced by the specific keyboard and keycaps used.

When examining the feel of each switch, the Cold Plum switch is characterized by a smooth keystroke, which many users find satisfying and responsive for both typing and gaming. This smooth travel contributes to a seamless experience during extended use, making it popular among enthusiasts seeking comfort and performance. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, featuring a Y3 stem, also provides a smooth travel experience but likely emphasizes a different tactile response due to its construction. While both switches aim to deliver a user-friendly experience, the Cold Plum is recognized for its unique enjoyment, while the Ragdoll's feel may position it differently in terms of tactile feedback and overall user satisfaction.

In summary, both the Outemu Cold Plum and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches present their own distinctive sound and feel qualities that can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cold Plum's thocky sound and smooth feel offer a rich and satisfying typing experience, while the Ragdoll’s clacky sound and Y3 stem provide a different tactile journey. Ultimately, the choice will hinge on personal taste, as both switches enable a smooth keystroke experience, albeit with different auditory and tactile characteristics that define them in the mechanical keyboard space.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Cold Plum and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a heavier actuation force coupled with a thocky sound profile that offers a distinct auditory feedback, the Cold Plum switch is likely the better fit for you. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams can provide a satisfying resistance that may enhance your typing experience, particularly if you like to feel more connected to each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch that emphasizes speed and fluidity while offering a clackier sound, the Ragdoll switch with its 52-gram bottom out force would be the ideal choice. Its smooth travel and lightweight feel make it excellent for rapid typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the kind of acoustic and tactile feedback you desire from your mechanical keyboard—whether you lean towards a hearty thock or a crisp clack, both switches have unique strengths to cater to different user preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Ragdoll Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more