Bsun Ragdoll vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Bsun Ragdoll and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the BSUN Ragdoll and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g each present unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The Ragdoll is celebrated for its Y3 stem, which ensures smooth key travel and a distinctive clacky sound thanks to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. This switch is ideal for users who enjoy tactile feedback and a bit of auditory excitement while typing. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered for those who prioritize quietness and a gentle typing experience. With its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, it is well-suited for light typists seeking a serene environment, reminiscent of soft raindrops. Both switches offer their own set of benefits, making them appealing choices depending on your typing style and sound preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Partial box
Stem material
Y3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Bsun Ragdoll and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, both switches feature nylon as the material for their top housing. This choice of nylon contributes to a similar auditory experience, as the softer nature of the material absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, both switches produce a deeper, fuller sound profile characterized by a rounder and duller tone. This makes them particularly appealing for users seeking a comfortable typing experience that minimizes sharpness in sound.
However, a key contrast arises in the bottom housing materials used in these two models. The Ragdoll employs nylon for its bottom housing as well, which continues the trend of producing a warm, muted sound profile throughout the entirety of the switch. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g features a polycarbonate bottom housing, a material known for its stiffness and clarity. This leads to a sharper, more resonant sound profile that contrasts with the deep and full tones produced by nylon. Consequently, while both switches utilize nylon on the top housing for a similar sound profile, the different materials at the bottom result in distinct auditory characteristics during the actuation and bottoming out phases.
Ultimately, the differences in sound profiles can be attributed to the various housing materials, particularly in the bottom housings. For typing experiences, the nylon bottom of the Ragdoll contributes to a consistent, rounded sound, while the polycarbonate bottom of the Silent Sakura - 43g enhances the clarity and sharpness of the sounds made during key presses. Despite this contrast, both switches can provide enjoyable and satisfying typing experiences, and users can choose based on their preference for either a deeper sound or a crisper response. Understanding these differences enables users to anticipate the auditory feedback they might prefer in their mechanical keyboard builds.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ragdoll requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Silent Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. This distinction means that users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming may favor the Silent Sakura for its ease of activation. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Ragdoll is 52 grams compared to the Silent Sakura’s 43 grams, further emphasizing the Ragdoll's heavier feel. Consequently, the Ragdoll is overall the heavier switch, providing a more substantial typing experience, while the Silent Sakura caters to those who benefit from the responsiveness of a lighter switch. Ultimately, each switch offers a unique typing experience—users will need to consider their preferences and how each weight might impact their extended use.
Travel distance
The Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Ragdoll measuring 3.8 mm and the Silent Sakura at 4.0 mm. This makes the Ragdoll the shorter of the two, offering a slightly more responsive typing experience that many gamers appreciate for faster action. In contrast, the Silent Sakura provides a traditional depth that some users might prefer, as it delivers a more substantial feel when pressing the keys. For those who enjoy a more immediate response, the Ragdoll's 3.8 mm travel distance allows for quicker actuation, while the 4 mm travel distance of the Silent Sakura may be favored by those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke. Thus, while both switches offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences, the Ragdoll is the shorter option, and the Silent Sakura is the longer one.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 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
The sound profile of the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch features a clacky tone due to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, which can produce a more pronounced acoustic signature. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is crafted specifically for a whisper-quiet experience, likening its sound to gentle raindrops, providing an extremely subtle auditory feedback during use. It's important to remember that the actual sound can vary depending on the keyboard build and chosen keycaps, which makes it essential to consider these elements when evaluating potential sound outcomes.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch is designed to offer smooth travel attributed to its Y3 stem, resulting in a satisfying yet pronounced tactile sensation as you press down. The Silent Sakura - 43g, with its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, is tailored for a seamless and effortless typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience in their unique ways, with the Ragdoll providing a more deliberate feel while the Sakura offers a feather-light responsiveness.
In conclusion, the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch delivers a clacky sound and a smooth yet tactile feel, ideal for typists who enjoy auditory feedback during use. Meanwhile, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g caters to those seeking a serene and quiet typing experience with its ultra-light touch. While both switches emphasize different subjective qualities, your choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience. If sound is a key factor for you, understanding that the Ragdoll will be louder may lead you to choose it for a more pronounced experience, while the Silent Sakura would suit those valuing a softer, less distracting atmosphere.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch should align with both your typing style and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you tend to prefer a touch of resistance and enjoy the tactile feedback associated with a medium-light actuation force, the Ragdoll will likely fit your needs well, especially if you appreciate a bit of acoustic feedback in your typing experience. This switch's Y3 stem and nylon-fiberglass construction create a distinctive sound profile that many find enjoyable, making it suitable for those who don’t mind a little noise while they type. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a lightweight feel for your day-to-day tasks, especially in shared or quieter environments, the Silent Sakura - 43g is an excellent choice. Its ultra-light 43g actuation force and whisper-quiet operation are tailored for those who prioritize a serene typing experience, ideal for long hours of use without disturbing others. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preference for switch feel, sound profile, and the contexts in which you’ll be typing.
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