Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Bsun Ragdoll represent two distinct options tailored to different typing experiences. The Outemu Dustproof Blue, a clicky switch, is characterized by its tactile feedback and distinctive auditory click, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy a more interactive feel with every keystroke. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll features a linear switch design, notable for its smooth key travel and quieter operation, ideal for those who prefer a more subtle experience without any tactile bumps or clicks. While the Dustproof Blue is perfect for providing audible feedback that enhances typing accuracy, the Ragdoll excels at fluid, uninterrupted keystrokes, making it a top choice for gamers and those who do a lot of typing without distractions. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value the feedback and sound of a clicky switch or the smoothness and silence of a linear one. 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
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Bsun Ragdoll switches distinctly influence their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Dustproof Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic arises from polycarbonate's relative stiffness, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, making it a visually appealing choice for backlit keyboards. In contrast, the Ragdoll features a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its classic qualities, that emits a deeper, fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon diminishes sound resonance, resulting in a more muted auditory experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Dustproof Blue and Ragdoll switches favor nylon, which offers similar acoustic benefits. With both switches employing nylon in their bottom housings, they share the ability to create a deeper and rounder sound profile that absorbs sound more efficiently. This shared characteristic ensures that both switches evoke a similar auditory response when a key is bottomed out, giving users a consistent tactile sensation whether they are utilizing the Dustproof Blue or the Ragdoll. The softer plastic nature of nylon contributes to a soft landing, enhancing user comfort during prolonged typing sessions.
Ultimately, the different top housing materials lead to contrasting auditory experiences; while the Dustproof Blue offers a crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top, the Ragdoll favors a warmer tone with its nylon top. The result is that each switch will deliver unique performance attributes based on the combination of their housing materials. Therefore, users aiming for an enjoyable sound experience may find their preference swayed by the top housing material alone. However, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing across both switches ensures that regardless of the choice, users will enjoy a rich, deep sound when striking the keys.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch exhibit distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varying user preferences. The Dustproof Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Ragdoll features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, qualifying it as a medium-light switch. This means that users who prefer a more substantial typing experience will likely appreciate the heftier push of the Dustproof Blue, while those seeking a lighter touch for lengthy typing or gaming sessions will gravitate towards the Ragdoll. Overall, the differences in force highlight how each switch serves different typing styles and user ergonomics, with the Dustproof Blue being the heavier option and the Ragdoll providing a lighter experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, we find that the Dustproof Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ragdoll measures 3.8 mm. This makes the Dustproof Blue the longer option, allowing for a more pronounced tactile experience with each keypress, which some users may appreciate for its depth. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Ragdoll provides a slightly faster response time, appealing to gamers or those who prefer a more immediate action. Ultimately, if you prioritize a deeper feel with feedback, the Dustproof Blue is the better choice; however, if you favor responsiveness, the Ragdoll's shorter distance is advantageous.
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 Dustproof Blue 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 Dustproof Blue switch is recognized for its characteristic click, which is a defining quality of clicky switches, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. However, specific sound characteristics such as volume or pitch are not mentioned. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, while primarily focused on a smooth keystroke, is noted to produce a "clacky" sound, attributed to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. These differences suggest that users who appreciate pronounced sounds during typing might lean towards the Dustproof Blue, whereas those preferring a more muted yet still audible clack may find the Ragdoll to their liking.
When evaluating feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch typically offers a tactile bump paired with its clicky feedback, allowing for a distinct typing experience that many find engaging and responsive. Meanwhile, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch is designed with a Y3 stem that emphasizes smooth travel throughout the keystroke. This results in a fluid typing motion without a tactile bump, catering to those who favor a less obstructive and more effortless feel when pressing keys.
In summation, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Bsun Ragdoll switches cater to different preferences in sound and typing experience. The former provides a clicky auditory feedback great for those who enjoy pronounced key presses, while the latter emphasizes a smooth linear feel with a clack that may appeal to users who prefer a quieter, yet still engaging typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would largely depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a tactile feel coupled with an audible click that provides satisfying feedback as you type, the Dustproof Blue may be the right choice for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force requires a bit more effort which can help prevent accidental key presses, making it a good option for those who do a lot of typing or programming and appreciate the distinct sound that accompanies each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter experience with less resistance, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch could be a better fit. Its lighter actuation force allows for rapid key presses, which is ideal for gamers who need quick response times without the distraction of clicky sounds. Overall, it’s essential to consider your typing style, the environment you’ll be using your keyboard in, and whether you value auditory feedback or a serene typing experience.
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