Bsun Ragdoll vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often have a variety of options, each designed to cater to different preferences and typing styles. The BSUN Ragdoll linear switch is celebrated for its Y3 stem that ensures a seamless key travel experience combined with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a distinct clacky sound, ideal for users who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie stands out as a medium-weight all-POM switch that not only breaks the price barrier but also delivers exceptional quality, offering a satisfying thocky sound profile coupled with remarkable smoothness. Both switches have their unique strengths: if you prefer a clackier sound and a textured feel, the Ragdoll may be your go-to, while the Sea Salt Smoothie shines for those seeking balance and affordability. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

Bsun Ragdoll Linear

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Bsun Ragdoll and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches exhibit distinct differences in their housing materials, which significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The Ragdoll's top and bottom housings are made from nylon, a classic switch material known for its ability to absorb sound effectively. The inherent softness of nylon contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile that is characterized by a duller, rounder quality. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie employs POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings. POM is celebrated for its unique acoustic properties that yield an equally pleasing but slightly different sound profile; it is deeper yet more muted compared to the Ragdoll, resulting in an intriguing blend of tactile and auditory characteristics.

Despite the differences in materials, both the Ragdoll and Sea Salt Smoothie switches aim for rich auditory experiences, though they achieve them through contrasting methodologies. While the nylon used in the Ragdoll dampens sound more effectively, leading to a sonorous fullness, the POM housings of the Sea Salt Smoothie offer a different interpretation of depth, producing a sound that is unique and somewhat more subdued. The application of the materials manifests differently in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. On the Ragdoll, both housing components work together to create a consistent sound, while the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM housing offers moments of distinct clarity interspersed with its muted depth.

Ultimately, even though the switch housing materials differ between the Bsun Ragdoll and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, both can be engineered to achieve similar results in terms of sound depth and typing experience. If a switch was designed with a consistent material profile, such as two layers of nylon or two layers of POM, you would likely find that the resulting sound and feel achieve a synergy that delivers a satisfying tactile feedback. Thus, while the unique acoustic properties of nylon and POM create different auditory landscapes, both switches encapsulate the potential for producing rich and enjoyable typing experiences through their individual designs.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Ragdoll features an actuation force of 45 grams, which is slightly lighter than the 48 grams required for the Sea Salt Smoothie. This difference means that users who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Ragdoll more comfortable for extended use, whereas those accustomed to a heavier touch might lean towards the Sea Salt Smoothie for its more substantial push feel. Additionally, the Ragdoll has a bottom out force of 52 grams, giving a clear measure for the actuation, while the Sea Salt Smoothie’s bottom out force remains unknown, making it difficult to evaluate its full pressing experience. Therefore, if you prefer a lighter switch, the Ragdoll is the way to go, while the Sea Salt Smoothie provides a heavier option with an unspecified bottoming out sensation.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch measures 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Ragdoll switch offers a bit more depth, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key press, providing a sense of feedback and satisfaction. Conversely, the Sea Salt Smoothie, with its shorter travel distance, may be more suitable for gamers seeking quicker response times, as the reduced distance allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference: those who enjoy a deeper press may gravitate toward the Ragdoll, while those favoring a faster, more responsive feel might choose the Sea Salt Smoothie.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch produces a distinct clacky sound, which is likely influenced by its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. This gives it a unique auditory signature that some users may find appealing, particularly in a more acoustic environment. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offers a thocky sound profile, which is characterized by a deeper, richer tone that often provides a satisfying auditory experience without being overly loud. The sound of both switches can vary across different keyboards and keycap combinations, so personal preference and equipment choice will play a significant role in the overall acoustic experience.

When considering feel, the Ragdoll linear switch is notable for its smooth travel, thanks to the Y3 stem design. This smoothness enhances the typing experience, allowing for effortless keystrokes that many users find desirable. Similarly, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is recognized for its exceptional smoothness, attributed to its all-POM construction. The medium weight of the Sea Salt Smoothie adds a nice balance that can feel satisfying while typing, providing tactile feedback that many users appreciate. Both switches are designed to deliver a pleasant and fluid typing experience, making them appealing choices for those who value smooth actuation.

Overall, while the BSUN Ragdoll and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switches have distinct sound profiles—the clacky nature of the Ragdoll versus the thocky quality of the Smoothie—they both emphasize smooth actuation, catering to users who prioritize a seamless typing experience. Your choice between the two will ultimately depend on whether you prefer a lighter, clacky sound or a deeper, thocky noise, as well as the overall aesthetics and sound of your keyboard setup. Both switches promise a satisfying feel, making either option a great addition to any mechanical keyboard enthusiast's collection.

Conclusion

To wrap up, the choice between the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a medium-light force and seek a switch that provides a distinct, clacky sound—ideal for an engaging typing experience—the Ragdoll could be your go-to option. Its Y3 stem ensures smooth travel, making it suitable for both typing and gaming, especially if you appreciate a bit of auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch that emphasizes smoothness and delivers a thocky sound profile, the Sea Salt Smoothie would likely be your best choice. This switch is designed to provide a satisfying tactile feel and excels in both typing and gaming without the acoustic sharpness of the Ragdoll. Ultimately, your ideal switch hinges on whether you value a lighter, more auditory experience or a heavier, more subdued typing sensation. Consider what aspects of typing and gaming you prioritize, and you will find that either switch has its merits tailored to different preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Ragdoll Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn more