Outemu Red vs. Bsun Ragdoll

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular linear options that often come up for comparison are the Outemu Red and the Bsun Ragdoll. The Outemu Red switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation, appealing to gamers and typists who prefer a fluid typing experience without tactile bumps or audible clicks. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll boasts a unique Y3 stem design that enhances smooth travel while providing a satisfying clacky sound, making it an attractive choice for those who enjoy a bit more auditory feedback from their keystrokes. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, the Outemu Red emphasizes a silent and seamless experience, whereas the Ragdoll introduces an engaging sound profile that can enhance the typing experience. 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 Red Linear

Bsun Ragdoll Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Red and the Bsun Ragdoll switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Outemu Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucence that enhances the clarity of sound produced. The sharp, high-pitched tone is ideal for those who appreciate a crisp auditory feedback from their keystrokes and want to maximize the effect of RGB lighting. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll opts for a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its softer and more absorbent qualities. This generates a deeper, fuller sound profile, resulting in a rounder acoustic experience. Thus, users of the Outemu Red will likely enjoy a more resonant and bright sound, while those using the Ragdoll will experience a warmer, more thudding sound.

When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Outemu Red and Bsun Ragdoll utilize nylon, a material renowned for its sound-dampening properties. This commonality contributes to a fuller and rounder sound on key presses for both switch types, as nylon's softer texture absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. Therefore, while the top housing of each switch introduces distinctive tonal qualities—sharp for the Red and deep for the Ragdoll—both will provide a rich auditory engagement upon bottoming out due to the nylon material in their lower housings. This aspect creates a level of uniformity in the tactile experience shared between both switches.

Ultimately, the diverse materials used in the top housings of the Outemu Red and Bsun Ragdoll illustrate how key differentiation in construction can shape the auditory experience of a keyboard switch. While the polycarbonate of the Red offers a bright clarity ideal for RGB lighting, the nylon of the Ragdoll promotes a warmer, fuller sound profile. However, with both switches employing nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect a similar experience in the depth and roundness of sound when the keys are pressed down. Therefore, although the top housings articulate different sound signatures, the nylon bottoms ensure that both switches deliver an enjoyable and rich tactile experience.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Red linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Outemu Red features an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Ragdoll has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a notably lighter bottom out force of 52 grams. This indicates that the Bsun Ragdoll is designed for users who prefer a more comfortable typing experience, particularly suitable for extended use or long gaming sessions, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. In contrast, the Outemu Red offers a heavier feel, making it better suited for those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. Thus, while both switches sit within the medium and medium-light categories, the Ragdoll is the lighter option, catering to users who favor less resistance.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, we find that the Outemu Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Ragdoll measures slightly less at 3.8 mm. This makes the Ragdoll the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers seeking quicker actuation and reduced keypress time. On the other hand, the Outemu Red, with its longer travel distance, tends to provide a more substantial and tactile experience, making it potentially more satisfying for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Consequently, while both switches cater to different user preferences, the choice ultimately hinges on whether one values the responsiveness of a shorter travel or the comforting depth of a longer one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to the sound profile, the Outemu Red linear switch is relatively quiet, which makes it a great option for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. This quiet nature can be attributed to the design and materials used, but specific sound characteristics aren’t highlighted. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch features a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that contributes to a distinctly clacky sound. This difference indicates that while users of the Outemu Red can enjoy a more stealthy typing session, those choosing the Ragdoll will likely have a more pronounced auditory feedback, enhancing their typing experience if they appreciate that element.

Regarding the feel of the switches, the Outemu Red is characterized by its smooth and consistent linear action, which provides a minimalist tactile response that many users find satisfying for both gaming and typing. The Ragdoll, on the other hand, is designed with a Y3 stem that promises smooth travel, suggesting a refined linear feel that could potentially rival the Outemu Red in terms of action. Both switches prioritize smoothness in their linear design, making them favorable options for users who enjoy a seamless keypress without tactile bumps.

In summary, while the Outemu Red linear switch is notable for its quiet operation and smooth feel, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch distinguishes itself with a clacky sound and a similarly smooth travel experience due to its unique Y3 stem design. Users looking for a quieter, stealthier switch may prefer the Outemu Red, while those who enjoy a bit more auditory feedback might find the Ragdoll appealing. Despite their differences, both switches promise a satisfying linear typing experience, particularly for those who prioritize smooth action in their choice of switches.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between Outemu Red linear switches and Bsun Ragdoll linear switches depends largely on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and seek a straightforward, reliable switch for gaming and typing, the Outemu Red is an excellent choice. Its 62-gram actuation weight provides a satisfying resistance that can help you maintain accuracy during fast-paced sessions. However, if you lean towards a lighter touch and enjoy a smoother keypress with a more audible and unique sound, the Bsun Ragdoll should be your go-to. With a 52-gram actuation weight, the Ragdoll features a Y3 stem for a silkier feel and a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a clacky sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Ultimately, if you appreciate a solid, robust feel with a touch of resistance, opt for the Outemu Red; but if you’re after a more delicate touch with engaging acoustics, the Bsun Ragdoll will serve you well.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Ragdoll Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more