Bsun Ragdoll vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Bsun Ragdoll and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, switch selection is crucial for both typing comfort and performance, and two popular options for linear switches are the Bsun Ragdoll and the Gateron Silent Ink Black. The Bsun Ragdoll is celebrated for its smooth travel, thanks to its Y3 stem, along with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a distinct clacky sound, making it a delightful choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is specifically designed for quieter environments, offering a plush, pillow-like bottom-out feel with reduced sound levels, ideal for those who prioritize a muted experience, whether in shared office spaces or late-night gaming. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, making them attractive choices depending on your specific needs. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Bsun Ragdoll and Gateron Silent Ink Black keyboard switches illustrate distinct approaches to sound quality and tactile feedback. The Ragdoll features both its top and bottom housings made of nylon, a material renowned for its ability to absorb sound effectively. The result is a deeper and fuller sound profile that is often perceived as duller and rounder, creating a typing experience that feels warmer and more muted. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black employs a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, which emphasizes a higher-pitched and clackier sound. This means that while both switches aim to enhance the typist's experience, they do so through fundamentally different material characteristics that evoke distinct auditory sensations.
When we consider the role of each housing in shaping the output sound, the nuanced differences between the Ragdoll and Silent Ink Black become even more evident. The nylon construction of the Ragdoll ensures that both the top and bottom housings contribute to the overall sound experience, dulling higher frequencies to produce a smoother typing sound. Conversely, the INK blend used in the Silent Ink Black contributes sharp characteristics to both the bottoming out and release phases of a keystroke, leading to a more pronounced sound. In essence, the Ragdoll's softer nylon dampens and dulls sounds, while the Gateron switch enhances sound clarity through its unique material properties.
Ultimately, users can expect contrasting tactile and auditory experiences from the Bsun Ragdoll and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches. For users who favor a more subdued typing experience with a rich acoustic foundation, the Ragdoll would be the ideal choice due to its nylon materials. On the other hand, if one seeks a vibrant and lively typing experience characterized by essential feedback and clarity, the Silent Ink Black would be the preferred option. While the differences in materials lead to varied experiences, understanding how each element functions can help users find satisfaction tailored to their typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, a notable difference emerges in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ragdoll features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, making it easier to press and suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black requires a heftier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This heavier resistance offers a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Consequently, the Ragdoll switch is the lighter option, while the Silent Ink Black is the heavier choice, each catering to different typing preferences and use cases.
Travel distance
The Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offer distinct travel distances, with the Ragdoll featuring a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Silent Ink Black provides a slightly longer distance of 4 mm. This means that the Ragdoll offers a shorter feel, which may appeal to users who prioritize rapid response times and prefer a more responsive typing experience, particularly favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black, with its longer 4 mm travel, caters to those who appreciate a deeper keystroke for a more substantial feel while typing. The difference in travel distances also reflects the trade-off between immediate feedback and a satisfying depth, aligning with individual preferences in switch responsiveness and typing comfort. Thus, if you prefer a greater depth in key presses, the Gateron Silent Ink Black would be the better choice, while the Bsun Ragdoll would suit those seeking a quicker activation.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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
The BSUN Ragdoll linear switch produces a sound noted for its clacky quality, thanks to the nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that contributes to its acoustic character. This contrast is significant when compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black, which is designed for quiet environments, delivering a muted audio signature that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. The Silent Ink Black's focus on reduced noise makes it ideal for scenarios where distraction needs to be kept to a minimum. While both switches will sound different when engaged, the overall auditory experience can be influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps used, making variability possible.
In terms of feel, the Ragdoll offers a smooth travel experience attributed to its Y3 stem, allowing for a satisfying typing sensation. However, this experience may not be as refined as that of the Silent Ink Black, which is characterized by its silky feel and polished finish. The Ink Black provides a cushy, pillow-like bottom-out feel, enhancing comfort and promoting a smoother typing experience with reduced friction due to its high-quality design. This distinction in tactile feedback makes the Silent Ink Black particularly appealing for users seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience.
Overall, while the BSUN Ragdoll and Gateron Silent Ink Black serve different auditory and tactile preferences, both have their own unique strengths. The Ragdoll is perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic profile, while the Silent Ink Black caters to individuals prioritizing silence and smoothness in their typing. Depending on your environment and personal preferences, either switch can deliver enjoyable results—however, the experience will be distinctly different due to their respective sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when selecting between the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it’s crucial to consider your specific typing environment and personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 52 grams and enjoy a tactile experience with a bit of sound, the Ragdoll may be your best choice. Its Y3 stem and nylon-fiberglass construction provide a smooth travel while adding a clacky sound that some users find satisfying. Conversely, if you often type in quieter settings, such as during work hours or in shared spaces, the Gateron Silent Ink Black, with its higher bottom-out force of 70 grams, offers a more muted experience with a silky and polished feel. This switch minimizes auditory distraction, providing a cushy bottom-out sensation that can enhance your typing comfort. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a slightly more tactile and audible experience versus a smooth, silent one, allowing you to tailor your keyboard to your personal typing style and environment.
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