Bsun Ragdoll vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Ragdoll and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Ragdoll and TTC Speed Silver both present unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Ragdoll, which features a Y3 stem, is celebrated for its smooth travel and a distinctive clacky sound thanks to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback and an engaging auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is engineered for speed, boasting a light-to-medium resistance and a refined sound profile that promotes a fast and precise typing experience. Its shorter travel distance enables quick actuation, making it a favorite among gamers and typists who prioritize responsiveness and efficiency. Each switch has its merits depending on whether you seek a more tactile and acoustic experience with the Ragdoll or prefer the swift performance of the Speed Silver. 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
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Ragdoll and the TTC Speed Silver, the most striking difference lies in the top housing. The Ragdoll features a nylon top, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer texture that absorbs sound effectively. In contrast, the Speed Silver uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in materials exemplifies a notable divergence in auditory experience: users who favor the Ragdoll may prefer the muted and rounded tones typical of nylon, while those who gravitate towards the Speed Silver might appreciate the clarity and resonance of polycarbonate, particularly under RGB lighting conditions that enhance the aesthetics of the switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Bsun Ragdoll and TTC Speed Silver utilize nylon, thus aligning their sound profiles in a foundational manner. Nylon's characteristics bring a degree of consistency to the auditory experience, providing a deeper and fuller sound when the key is bottomed out, regardless of the differences in material used for the top housing. This shared nylon bottom allows both switches to produce a similar tactile feel during typing and contributes to the overall subdued acoustic experience that nylon tends to convey, even though their top housings provide contrasting sound profiles.
In summary, the combination of different top housing materials with similar nylon bottoms impacts the overall sound experience and typing feedback of each switch. While the Ragdoll’s nylon top promotes a warmer and more muffled sound, the Speed Silver capitalizes on the crisp clarity of polycarbonate. The nylon bottom in both switches, however, ensures that both models provide a satisfying and consistent typing experience, leading to a shared acoustic depth when keys are fully pressed. Thus, despite the differences in their top configurations, the two switches can yield comparable results in terms of sound when keys are bottomed out, showcasing the unique role each housing material plays in sound dynamics and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch share the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke, making them equally accommodating for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ragdoll measures at 52 grams, while the Speed Silver is slightly heavier at 55 grams. This distinction indicates that the TTC Speed Silver offers a firmer feedback upon bottoming out, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, those who prefer a lighter overall switch might lean towards the Ragdoll, while gamers or typists who appreciate a heftier feel may opt for the Speed Silver.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Ragdoll features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, while the Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, categorizing it as the shorter switch. For gamers or users who prioritize quick responsiveness, the TTC Speed Silver may be the better choice due to its reduced travel distance, which allows for faster actuation. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may favor the Bsun Ragdoll, as its longer travel distance can provide a sense of depth and stability in each keystroke. While both switches cater to different preferences in travel distance, the Ragdoll's 3.8 mm offers a more pronounced experience compared to the Speed Silver's quicker 3.4 mm.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch produces a clacky sound, which can be attributed to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. This characteristic adds a distinctive auditory profile that some users may find satisfying, particularly if they enjoy the feedback of sound while typing. Conversely, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, combining a moderate actuation force requirement with a sound level that is neither overly loud nor completely silent. This makes the Speed Silver versatile enough for various environments, from quiet offices to more open spaces. The sound experience can also vary based on the keyboard itself and the keycap materials used, so both switches could yield comparable sound outcomes depending on these factors.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch is characterized by its Y3 stem, which offers smooth key travel that many users appreciate for a fluid typing experience. This can lead to an enjoyable tactile sensation for users who favor linear switches. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver provides a mild feel, making it approachable for all skill levels. The polished texture of the switch, combined with its refined finish, enhances the smoothness of keypresses and reduces friction, contributing to a luxurious typing experience. Both switches aim to deliver comfort and ease during use, though the Ragdoll emphasizes a smoother feel, while the Speed Silver balances smoothness with a gentle feedback sensation.
In conclusion, both the BSUN Ragdoll and the TTC Speed Silver linear switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Ragdoll leans towards a clackier sound and emphasizes a smooth travel experience, the Speed Silver offers a more neutral sound profile with a mildly polished feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, users might find that either switch serves as an excellent choice for a mechanical keyboard. The decision will ultimately depend on whether one values a more pronounced auditory experience or seeks a versatile, refined typing feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, when it comes to choosing between the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, your decision should hinge on your specific typing needs and preferences. If you prefer a switch that offers a smooth travel experience with a moderate actuation force, the Ragdoll is an enticing choice, especially if you appreciate a slightly clackier sound profile that can add character to your keystrokes. Its medium-light actuation force makes it suitable for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if speed and precision are what you value most, the TTC Speed Silver is engineered for that purpose with its reduced travel distance and a slightly firmer actuation force. This switch provides a more neutral sound and mild feel, making it versatile for both work and gaming, ensuring you can achieve quick and accurate responses. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you lean towards a smoother, more textured experience or require a snappier, responsive setup for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks.
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