Bsun Ragdoll vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Bsun Ragdoll and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the BSUN Ragdoll and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches each offer unique characteristics that appeal to different typing preferences. The Ragdoll is celebrated for its smooth travel, thanks to the Y3 stem design, and features a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a satisfying clacky sound, making it ideal for users who relish auditory feedback while enjoying a fluid typing experience. In contrast, the Salt Ice switches are designed to provide exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, along with a light touch that allows for effortless actuation. This makes them particularly appealing for users seeking an energetic and responsive typing feel. While both switches cater to those who appreciate linear actions devoid of tactile bumps, their distinctive sound profiles and actuation feel create different user experiences. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Y3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Ragdoll and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches emphasize distinct auditory experiences due to their differing compositions. The Ragdoll utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller resonance. This outcome is primarily attributed to nylon's softer texture, which not only absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials but also contributes to a muted acoustic signature. In contrast, the Salt Ice employs polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, a choice that produces a sharper, crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant and clearer auditory experience, which is especially pronounced in the context of RGB lighting, where the translucency of the material enhances visual effects.
Despite these differences, the manipulation of sound and feel based on housing material presents interesting contrasts. The Ragdoll's nylon housing dampens auditory feedback, leading to a notably softer typing experience. This attribute likely appeals to users who favor a quieter, less intrusive sound when typing. On the other hand, the Salt Ice's polycarbonate construction promotes auditory clarity, enhancing the keystroke's responsiveness and providing a livelier feedback mechanism. Thus, the Ragdoll is ideal for those seeking a serene typing atmosphere, while the Salt Ice caters to those who appreciate an expressive and engaging auditory experience.
Ultimately, the varied sound profiles and tactile sensations of both switch types cater to different user preferences, yet they achieve their intended results through their respective materials. It is essential to note that the influence of the top and bottom housings plays a critical role in shaping the overall typing experience. In both cases, the bottom housing contributes primarily to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing predominantly impacts the acoustics when releasing a key. This division indicates that even if the housing materials differ, users could experiment with combinations of nylon and polycarbonate in their switches to achieve a customized balance between sound depth and clarity, leading to a unique typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
The Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means that users can expect a similar level of resistance when triggering a keystroke, making them suitable for both long typing sessions and extended gaming. However, the Ragdoll switch has a bottom out force of 52 grams, indicating a slightly firmer feel when the key is fully depressed, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Salt Ice switch lacks a defined bottom out force since this information is not available. As such, it is unclear how it will feel upon bottoming out. In summary, the Ragdoll switch is the heavier option overall with its 52-gram bottom out force, while both shares a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, suggesting that if the Salt Ice were to have a similar bottom out force, users might enjoy comparable typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, a notable difference arises. The Ragdoll boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Salt Ice has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that for users who favor rapid keystrokes and quicker response times, the Jerrzi Salt Ice may be the preferred choice due to its shallower travel distance. Conversely, if you appreciate a more pronounced feel when pressing down on a key, the Bsun Ragdoll's longer 3.8 mm travel distance might be more suitable, offering a more substantial depth. Ultimately, those who prefer more responsiveness will likely gravitate towards the shorter Salt Ice, while enthusiasts of a hearty depth might opt for the Ragdoll.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch is renowned for its clacky acoustic profile, which is largely attributed to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. This material enhances the overall resonance, offering a satisfying auditory feedback that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is celebrated for its exceptionally bright and similarly clacky characteristics, making it another excellent option for those who enjoy a lively soundscape while typing. Both switches may produce a clacky sound, yet the nuances in their sound profiles may also depend on factors like the keyboard construction and the choice of keycaps.
Regarding feel, the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch is recognized for its smooth travel facilitated by the Y3 stem design, which translates to a pleasant, uninterrupted typing experience. Users will likely appreciate the lack of tactile bumps or resistance, allowing for fluid keystrokes. The Jerrzi Salt Ice switch, in contrast, offers vibrant feedback paired with a light touch that promotes effortless actuation. This creates a responsive typing experience, seemingly designed for quick and engaging communication. While both switches are linear, the distinct characteristics of their mechanics may lead to different sensations, affecting personal preference.
In conclusion, both the BSUN Ragdoll and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches provide unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different types of users. While the Ragdoll offers a smooth feel and a satisfying clap-like sound, the Salt Ice adds a layer of brightness and vibrancy that many typing enthusiasts may find delightful. Ultimately, users seeking a lively auditory backdrop and effortless keystrokes may find satisfaction in either option, but their specific preferences will dictate which switch aligns best with their typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you’re someone who appreciates a medium-light force with a balanced feel, the Ragdoll is an excellent choice. Its Y3 stem design allows for smooth key travel, while the nylon-fiberglass housing provides a pleasant clacky sound that not only enhances typing acoustics but also adds a touch of excitement to your keystrokes. This switch is ideal for those who value a blend of comfort and auditory feedback, making it suitable for a variety of tasks like typing and gaming without straining your fingers.
On the other hand, if you lean towards a more energetic and responsive typing experience, the Salt Ice switch may be your go-to option. With its exceptionally vibrant feedback, this switch brings an exhilarating sense of immediacy to each keystroke, making it perfect for fast-paced gaming or rapid typing sessions. Its clacky characteristics will satisfy users looking for a lively auditory experience while typing. If you want a switch that offers effortless actuation and doesn’t require much force to press down, the Salt Ice will undoubtedly meet your preferences.
In summary, if you prefer a balance of smooth action and pleasing sound with a moderate actuation force, the Ragdoll is the way to go. However, if you crave a more energetic responsiveness and a lively auditory sensation, you'll find joy in the Salt Ice. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths, so consider your typing habits and sound preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard.
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