Outemu Lotus vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, gamers and typists alike often find themselves weighing the pros and cons of various options. Two linear switches that stand out are the Outemu Lotus and the Bsun Ragdoll. The Lotus, though lesser-known, offers a reliable keypress experience that many users appreciate, while the Bsun Ragdoll is celebrated for its unique sound profile, thanks to its Y3 stem and nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, which provides a satisfying clacky sound with smooth actuation. Both switches are designed to deliver a quiet and responsive typing experience, making them great choices for various applications. 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
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Lotus and the Bsun Ragdoll, it is noteworthy that both models utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This shared choice of material positions them similarly in terms of sound and tactile experience. Nylon, known for being a relatively softer plastic, offers several acoustic benefits. Specifically, typing on switches made from nylon results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is often characterized by its warmer and rounder quality. This similarity in material choice ensures that users of both switches can expect a comparable auditory experience while typing, regardless of which specific switch they opt for.
Another aspect to consider is the impact the nylon housings have on the overall feel of the switch. The Outemu Lotus, with its nylon top housing, will generate a specific sound profile when keys are lifted, while the Bsun Ragdoll’s top housing similarly contributes to this effect. When users press the switches, both models exhibit the pronounced qualities of their nylon bottom housing. The softer texture of nylon significantly cushions the bottom-out sound and feel, which influences users' typing comfort and experience. Thus, the characteristics of nylon in both switches lead to a common consistency in typing feedback, making them pleasing for users who appreciate softer, more muted acoustics.
In summary, the Outemu Lotus and the Bsun Ragdoll are practically indistinguishable in terms of their housing materials, as they both employ nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This leads to a consistency in sound absorption and tactile feedback across both models. Users can expect similar auditory experiences and keystroke responses from both switches due to their shared nylon construction. When evaluating these switches, potential buyers can rest assured that they are choosing from two variants that will ultimately yield closely aligned performance characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, notable differences in actuation force can be observed. The Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Ragdoll's 45 grams, making the Lotus more suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience for prolonged use, such as during extended work or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Ragdoll, with its heavier actuation force, may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. Regarding bottom out force, the Lotus requires 50 grams, slightly lighter than the Ragdoll's bottom out force of 52 grams. This means that while both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the Ragdoll's overall feel is heavier and offers a bit more resistance throughout both the actuation and bottoming out stages, providing a different tactile sensation that some users might find appealing. If one prefers a lighter switch for casual use, then the Lotus is the clear choice, while the Ragdoll might be ideal for those who appreciate a firmer push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, the Lotus features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Ragdoll offers a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference indicates that the Lotus switch may provide quicker responsiveness, appealing to gamers who prioritize fast actuation speeds. On the other hand, the Ragdoll's 3.8 mm travel distance may deliver a more substantial tactile feel, potentially preferred by users who enjoy a deeper keystroke and find shorter distances too abrupt. Thus, the choice between these two switches hinges on individual preferences for responsiveness versus key depth.
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 Lotus 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have a specific reputation associated with it, making its acoustic profile somewhat of an unknown factor. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch is known for producing a clacky sound, which is attributed to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing combined with the Y3 stem. The auditory characteristics of any switch are, however, influenced by additional elements such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, meaning the Ragdoll's clackiness could be heightened or muted depending on these factors.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Lotus linear switch is also not noted for any particular quality, leaving its tactile sensation somewhat ambiguous. Conversely, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch boasts a smooth travel experience due to the Y3 stem design. This smoothness can enhance the typing experience by providing uninterrupted key presses. Similar to sound, the overall feel can vary based on the board and keycaps, but the Ragdoll is likely to offer a consistently smooth experience that the Lotus may lack clarity on.
In summary, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has no distinct characteristic in terms of sound or feel, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch stands out with its clacky auditory presence and smooth travel. If you're seeking tactile feedback, the Ragdoll would be a better choice given its known qualities. Ultimately, if you choose the Lotus, you may find yourself exploring its performance more to discover a preferred experience, while the Ragdoll offers more defined traits for an immediate understanding of its sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Lotus and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter switch with a very forgiving actuation force, the Outemu Lotus might be more suitable for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force provides a gentle typing experience that can reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. However, if you're looking for a bit more resistance and enjoy a clacky sound alongside smooth key travel, the Bsun Ragdoll with its 52-gram bottom-out force and Y3 stem will likely be your better option. The slightly firmer feel can be satisfying for those who appreciate tactile feedback, while its nylon-fiberglass housing contributes to the overall acoustic profile that some users find delightful. In short, consider the Outemu Lotus for effortless typing and minimal sound, while the Bsun Ragdoll would be a wise choice for those seeking a balance of smooth operation and a more engaging auditory experience.
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