Bsun Ragdoll vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Ragdoll and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between options like the BSUN Ragdoll and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) can significantly impact your typing experience. The BSUN Ragdoll is a linear switch that features a Y3 stem designed for incredibly smooth travel, combined with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a distinctive clacky sound. This makes the Ragdoll an excellent choice for those who favor a seamless keypress with auditory feedback, often preferred by gamers and typists who enjoy a more responsive feel. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch designed specifically for noise-sensitive environments. It offers a medium bump for tactile feedback, along with a padded bottom-out feel and subdued audio—a great option for office settings or shared spaces where noise reduction is essential. While the Ragdoll caters to enthusiasts who enjoy a lively auditory experience, the Silent T1 provides comfort and discretion without sacrificing the tactile satisfaction. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Bsun Ragdoll and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), clear distinctions emerge, particularly in their top housing compositions. The Ragdoll features a nylon top housing, which is renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is rounded and somewhat muted. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, characterized by its stiffer qualities which generate a crisper, high-pitched sound. This inherent stiffness of the polycarbonate allows for a clearer and more resonant sound profile, particularly beneficial for setups that include RGB lighting, as the material’s translucency enhances visual effects.
In terms of the bottom housings, both switches share the same material: nylon. This similarity means that both the Ragdoll and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) will deliver a deeper, fuller sound upon bottoming out, as nylon's softer texture effectively absorbs sound. The outcome of this shared bottom housing characteristic creates a sense of acoustic consistency in both switches; regardless of the differences in their top housing, users can expect a satisfying and muted bottom-out sound with either switch. This uniformity in bottom housing allows enthusiasts to appreciate the tactile feedback of the keypresses, regardless of the differing auditory qualities introduced by the top housings.
Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials across the two switches allows for a diverse auditory experience. While the nylon bottom housing ensures a deep and rounded sound, the contrasting top housings of the Ragdoll and Silent T1 (Shrimp) create unique sound profiles. Users can appreciate the collective elements of these materials, acknowledging how the sound from the top housing distinctly influences the release phase of typing while the bottom housing defines the bottom-out experience. This integration highlights the nuanced sound dynamics present in mechanical switches, allowing users to select a switch that best suits their desired auditory and tactile experience, whether they prefer the fuller sound of the Ragdoll or the sharper notes from the Silent T1 (Shrimp).
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces are quite significant. The Ragdoll features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light option suitable for prolonged typing and gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent T1 has an unknown actuation force but possesses a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means the Silent T1 requires a more substantial push, giving it a heavier feel that some typists prefer for a more pronounced typing experience. As a result, those looking for a lighter switch for comfort over extended use would find the Ragdoll more appealing, while users desiring a firmer feedback during typing may prefer the Silent T1. Overall, while the Ragdoll offers a softer touch with both lower actuation and bottom-out forces, the Silent T1 leans towards a more robust and heavier feel.
Travel distance
The Bsun Ragdoll linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Ragdoll slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the Silent T1. For users who prioritize quicker response times, the Ragdoll may be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, which can enhance responsiveness—especially favored by gamers. Conversely, for those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke and a deeper feel, the Silent T1 is the better option with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference: the Ragdoll offers a snappier experience, while the Silent T1 provides a more traditional and hearty depth.
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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound profile that lends itself well to a lively typing experience. The nylon-fiberglass construction of its bottom housing contributes to this acoustic characteristic, making it a fitting choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback from their keystrokes. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) emphasizes a muted sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience that minimizes the typical mechanical keyboard noise. This makes it particularly suitable for environments where noise sensitivity is paramount, enabling users to type without disturbing those around them.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Ragdoll offers a smooth travel that aligns with its linear switch design. The absence of a tactile bump means the switch moves fluidly from top to bottom, ideal for those who prefer an uninterrupted keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a medium tactile bump that is described as "stepped." This offers a distinctive typing sensation where users can feel a clear change in resistance during the stroke, providing feedback at both the pre-travel and post-travel stages. The padded bottom-out feel of the Silent T1 enhances the overall experience, ensuring a satisfying end to each keystroke without harsh impact.
Overall, the choice between the BSUN Ragdoll and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) largely comes down to personal preferences regarding sound and feel. The Ragdoll appeals to those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic experience with smooth linear travel, while the Silent T1 offers a tactile yet muted alternative that caters to noise-sensitive settings. As such, if you are deciding between these two switches, consider what aspects of the typing experience are most important to you—sound versus tactile feedback—and choose accordingly.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you're looking for a switch that offers a smooth, consistent keypress and a medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams, the Ragdoll is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for gaming or fast typists who appreciate quick, noisier feedback, thanks to its clacky sound profile. On the other hand, if you value a tactile experience without the added noise, especially in quiet environments, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be the preferable option. With a firmer, medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams, this switch delivers a muted yet effective tactile response, ideal for workspaces or shared settings where noise reduction is essential. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, acoustical preferences, and whether you're looking for a smooth or tactile experience with your keyboard.
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