Bsun Ragdoll vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Bsun Ragdoll and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the BSUN Ragdoll and the Dareu Sky V4 both stand out as excellent linear options, yet they cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Ragdoll is recognized for its Y3 stem, which provides exceptionally smooth key travel, complemented by a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a distinct clacky sound, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Sky V4 utilizes innovative POK material in its top housing, delivering a deeper sound signature that enhances the overall typing experience, making it ideal for typists who seek a rich and satisfying feel without sacrificing smoothness. While both switches offer unique characteristics that appeal to linear switch enthusiasts, the choice ultimately depends on your personal typing style and sound preference. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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 spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Ragdoll and the Dareu Sky V4, notable distinctions emerge primarily in their top housings. The Ragdoll features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer, sound-absorbing properties. This results in a typing experience characterized by a more muted tone, allowing for a more pronounced roundness in the aural feedback when keys are engaged and released. Conversely, the Sky V4 utilizes POK material for its top housing, which, while also providing a distinctive auditory feedback, leans towards a smoother and clackier sound profile due to its slightly higher coefficient of friction. This difference in material likely leads to contrasting experiences when typing, with the Ragdoll giving a softer note while the Sky V4 emits a more pronounced sound.
On the other hand, both models share a critical similarity when it comes to their bottom housings, as both the Ragdoll and the Sky V4 employ nylon material. This commonality means that both switches deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile while bottoming out. The nylon's inherent characteristics, such as sound absorption, create a consistent bottom-out experience across both models, rendering them capable of providing a similar tactile sensation when the key is fully pressed down. Therefore, while the top housings offer distinct auditory profiles, the uniform materials used in the bottom housings contribute to a shared experience regarding the bottom-out feeling and sound.
Overall, the interplay between the distinct top housing materials and the shared bottom housing presents a compelling contrast. The Ragdoll's nylon top creates a warmer, more enveloped sound atmosphere, perfect for users seeking a softer touch, while the Sky V4's POK top enhances the typing experience with a bright and satisfying clack. However, since both models use nylon for the bottom part of their housing, they maintain a level of consistency in experience when pressing keys fully. This dichotomy emphasizes how different materials can drastically alter the nuances of sound and feel while still providing some convergence through the shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The actuation forces of the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch are the same, both requiring 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, which allows for a similar typing experience in terms of the initial effort needed. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ragdoll has a slightly lower measurement at 52 grams compared to the 55 grams of the Sky V4. This means that while both switches deliver a medium-light actuation feel, the Ragdoll provides a lighter overall experience, making it potentially more comfortable for longer typing sessions. Conversely, the Dareu Sky V4, with its slightly heavier bottom out force, delivers a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback when bottoming out. Overall, the Ragdoll is the lighter option, while the Sky V4 is the heavier one, catering to different preferences in typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we see that the Ragdoll features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sky V4 has a slightly shorter distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive feel, the Sky V4 may be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers for quicker reaction times. Conversely, the Ragdoll’s longer travel distance could provide a more pronounced keystroke, appealing to those who prefer a deeper and more substantial typing experience. Overall, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize speed or depth in your keypresses.
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 Dareu Sky V4 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V4 for $4.76.
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 is characterized by a clacky sound, attributed to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. This material offers a unique acoustic profile, leading to a more pronounced sound. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 switch produces a deeper sound signature, described as thocky, which implies a richer and thicker auditory experience. It is crafted with POK material in its top housing, contributing to this nuanced sound that mixes low-pitched tones with a satisfying thud. Consequently, while both switches evoke enjoyable auditory feedback, the Ragdoll leans more towards a sharpness, while the Sky V4 offers a mellow, resonant depth.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Ragdoll is noted for its smooth travel due to the Y3 stem, although specific descriptors for its tactile experience are not provided. This smoothness might offer a consistent linear action, making it appealing for those who favor quick key presses without distraction. On the other hand, the Sky V4 is described as bouncy, providing an elastic sensation with a lively rebound. This difference in feedback can significantly influence typing dynamics; enthusiasts who appreciate a reactive feel may gravitate towards the Sky V4, while users seeking straightforward, unimpeded action might prefer the Ragdoll’s smooth nature.
In summary, both the BSUN Ragdoll and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ragdoll provides a clacky auditory experience with smooth key travel, while the Sky V4 enhances typing with its thocky depth and bouncy feedback. Typists looking for an auditory highlight without distractions might enjoy the Ragdoll, whereas those seeking a more dynamic and satisfying tactile experience will likely prefer the Sky V4. Depending on individual priorities in typing or gaming, either option can yield a rewarding experience, though their characteristics will shape the nuances of that experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Ragdoll and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you are looking for a smooth linear switch that provides a medium-light bottom-out force and produces a unique clacky sound, then the Bsun Ragdoll is an excellent choice, especially for casual typing and gaming where a softer tactile response can enhance the experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound signature paired with a bouncy feel that offers a lively and engaging typing experience, the Dareu Sky V4 is likely to suit you better. Its slightly higher bottom-out force and innovative POK material in the top housing provide a robust and satisfying feedback that many typists appreciate. Therefore, consider the Ragdoll for a lighter, more casual experience, and opt for the Sky V4 when you desire a rich, thocky sound and a dynamic feel that can enhance your productivity or gaming sessions.
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