Bsun Ragdoll vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Bsun Ragdoll and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often highlight the unique characteristics of each option that cater to different preferences. The BSUN Ragdoll linear switch is recognized for its Y3 stem, which provides a distinctly smooth travel, combined with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that contributes to a clacky sound, emitting a satisfying auditory feedback during use. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon offers a buttery smooth typing experience through its innovative progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, making it a delightful representation of linear switches. While the Ragdoll appeals to users who enjoy a tactile clack with each keystroke, the Sea Salt Lemon's neutral and mild sound profile may attract those seeking a more subdued and refined experience. Both switches offer unique advantages, tailored to the varying demands of typists and gamers alike. 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Ragdoll and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches, it's evident that the materials used in the top housings diverge significantly. The Ragdoll utilizes a nylon top housing, which provides a softer and more muted sound profile. This softness absorbs sound and contributes to a deeper, rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon features polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant quality that elevates the auditory feedback of the switches, making it especially suitable for users who prefer a more pronounced acoustic response. Thus, the choice of top housing material directly influences the sound experience of each switch, offering distinctly different profiles.
Interestingly, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, meaning they share similar characteristics in that specific regard. The nylon material, being softer, absorbs sound effectively, yielding a deeper and fuller auditory experience at the bottom-out point of the switch. This consistency in bottom housing material means that when it comes to the tactile feedback and sound produced when the key is fully pressed down, both switches will evoke a similar response. This shared use of nylon at the bottom could mean that users who favor the deeper sound profiles may still find common ground between the two switches, despite their differing top materials.
In sum, while the Ragdoll and Sea Salt Lemon switches stand apart in their sound signatures due to their different top housing materials—nylon and polycarbonate, respectively—there is a unifying element in their bottom housing, which is nylon. This similarity balances the overall experience when typing, as each switch’s deeper sound produced at the bottom-out phase softens the contrast between the sharper characteristics of the Sea Salt Lemon and the rounded tones of the Ragdoll. Ultimately, users can expect a fulfilling typing experience from both, although the auditory qualities will differ according to the top housing material, enhancing the individual character of each switch.
Weight
The Bsun Ragdoll and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches both feature an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a similar level of resistance when triggering a keystroke, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch that allows for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ragdoll requires 52 grams while the Sea Salt Lemon has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that while both switches feel relatively light during normal use, the Sea Salt Lemon has a marginally heavier feel at the bottom, potentially offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer feedback when bottoming out. Overall, both switches cater to those who enjoy lighter actuation forces, but the Sea Salt Lemon’s slightly higher bottom out force may appeal to users seeking a bit more resistance at the end of their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, the Ragdoll offers a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sea Salt Lemon has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference highlights a key characteristic in their designs; the Ragdoll's shorter travel distance can provide a more responsive feel, which is often favored by gamers seeking quick response times. Conversely, the Sea Salt Lemon's longer distance may offer a more substantial and gradual key press experience, appealing to those who prefer a deeper tactile feedback while typing. Therefore, if you desire a faster actuation, the Bsun Ragdoll is the better option, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon caters to those who appreciate a fuller key press sensation.
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 KTT Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, which is a result of its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. This means it can deliver a satisfying auditory response that many typists enjoy, especially in a setting where sound can enhance the tactile experience. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches present a low-pitched, neutral sound. The low-pitched nature brings a more mellow tone that many find soothing, making it versatile for various environments. Compared to the Ragdoll's clackiness, the Sea Salt Lemon leans towards a more conservative auditory presence, appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Ragdoll offers a smooth travel experience owing to its Y3 stem design, which can be quite engaging for those who appreciate an uninterrupted keystroke. However, detailed subjective descriptors for the Ragdoll's tactile feedback are not provided, which leaves some aspects of its feel open to interpretation. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon is noted for its mild typing experience, characterized by the gentle actuation provided by its progressive spring and dry-lube design. This makes the Sea Salt Lemon a safe choice for typists who might be new to mechanical keyboards, as it combines approachability with the smoothness of a linear switch.
In conclusion, both the BSUN Ragdoll and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches offer unique strengths in sound and feel. While the Ragdoll's clacky tones cater to those who enjoy auditory feedback, the Sea Salt Lemon provides a low-pitched, neutral sound suitable for various environments. The Ragdoll promises a smoother keystroke, though its feel specifics remain elusive, whereas the Sea Salt Lemon appeals through its mild typing sensation, making it an inviting option for beginners. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can deliver a satisfying mechanical experience, with each catering to slightly different desires in both sound and touch.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch largely hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you desire a switch that boasts a slightly more clacky sound and benefits from a Y3 stem design for smooth travel, the Bsun Ragdoll is an excellent choice. It's ideal for those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback while typing, making it suitable for both gaming and casual typing. Conversely, if you prefer a more balanced and mellow sound profile, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon stands out with its progressive spring and dry-lube design, offering a remarkably smooth typing experience. This switch will be particularly satisfying for users who favor a mild and approachable feel, making it suitable for extended typing sessions in both professional and personal settings. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a more tactile auditory experience with the Ragdoll or a silky smooth, low-key typing experience with the Sea Salt Lemon.
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