Bsun Ragdoll vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Bsun Ragdoll and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, options abound, and two compelling choices are the Bsun Ragdoll and the Jwick Splash Brothers, both of which fall into the category of linear switches but offer distinct characteristics. The Bsun Ragdoll is recognized for its Y3 stem, guaranteeing smooth key travel and a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a notably clacky sound, perfect for users who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback during their typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers emulate the dynamic partnership of Steph Curry and Klay Thompson, boasting a shorter activation point and a long pole stem that contribute to an exceptionally satisfying typing feel. Many users may find the creamy sound profile of the Splash Brothers appealing, especially those who favor a more subtle yet refined auditory experience. While both switches offer unique benefits, the choice ultimately depends on personal preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you perfectly.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
When it comes to the housing materials of the Bsun Ragdoll and the Jwick Splash Brothers, a significant distinction lies in the type of material used for the top housing. The Ragdoll's top housing is composed of nylon, a material known for its softer properties. This softness results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Splash Brothers feature a top housing made from polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that emits a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The clarity and resonance produced by the polycarbonate housing make it particularly advantageous for situations that utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for enhanced illumination. Thus, while the Ragdoll offers a warm and rounded auditory experience, the Splash Brothers deliver a crisp and vibrant sound.
Interestingly, both the Ragdoll and the Splash Brothers share an identical material for their bottom housing—nylon. This uniformity means that both switches will produce a similar, deeper, and fuller sound profile when engaging with the bottom housing. The nylon's sound-absorbing properties ensure that the bottom-out sound feels soft and rounded, contributing to a tactile and sound experience that is consistent across both models. Consequently, while the top housing materials create differing acoustic characteristics, the nylon bottom housing serves to unite the two switches in terms of a deeper auditory experience during key engagement.
In summary, the Bsun Ragdoll and Jwick Splash Brothers can be seen as complementary in their design. While the differing top housing materials contribute distinct acoustic profiles—nylon for the Ragdoll's warmth and polycarbonate for the Splash Brothers' clarity—the shared nylon bottom housing allows both switches to maintain a consistent underlying sound experience. This combination of materials illustrates how the choice of top housing can dramatically influence the auditory output, while the commonality in bottom housing provides a shared foundation that ties both models together.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, notable differences emerge in the actuation and bottom out forces. The Ragdoll has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Splash Brothers does not have a specified actuation force, suggesting it may be easier to press down on as it’s classified as light overall. However, the bottom out forces are close, with the Ragdoll at 52 grams and the Splash Brothers at 48 grams, indicating that both switches provide a similar feel when pressed fully. Given their actuation and bottom out forces, the Ragdoll is the heavier option, offering a somewhat more substantial typing experience, while the Splash Brothers is lighter, making it potentially better suited for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter switch would gravitate towards the Splash Brothers, whereas those who appreciate a heavier feel might prefer the Ragdoll.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it becomes clear that they cater to different preferences in tactile feedback and responsiveness. The Ragdoll has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Splash Brothers measures a shorter distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Ragdoll provides a deeper press, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers, with its shorter travel distance, offers quicker actuation, making it more suitable for gamers who prioritize rapid response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one values the deeper actuation of the Ragdoll or the snappier feedback of the Splash Brothers.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 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 leans towards a clacky tone, attributed to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, which adds a unique character to your typing experience. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch boasts a creamy sound signature that offers a smooth, neutral acoustic experience, making it versatile for various environments. While both switches may provide enjoyable auditory feedback, the Ragdoll’s clackiness may be more pronounced, potentially leading to a livelier sound, while the Splash Brothers focus on a balanced sound profile, suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
When it comes to feel, the Ragdoll switch is favored for its smooth travel thanks to its Y3 stem, which enhances the overall satisfaction during use. The Splash Brothers, on the other hand, have been engineered to feature a shorter activation with a long pole stem, resulting in a comfortable yet dynamic typing feel. Users will appreciate the Splash Brothers for their responsive characteristics, including a snappy and bouncy sensation that brings a certain liveliness to each keystroke. The combination of polished, mild, and subtle attributes ensures a gentle yet engaging experience, making it accessible to a broad range of users.
In conclusion, while the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch provides a clacky sound and an overall smooth feel, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch excels with its creamy sound profile and responsive typing experience characterized by a blend of snappy and bouncy qualities. If you choose either of these switches, expect quality performance, though the specific auditory and tactile experiences will differ based on their unique designs. Ultimately, both switches can offer enjoyable typing experiences; your choice will depend on whether you prefer the lively clack of the Ragdoll or the balanced dynamics of the Splash Brothers.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a moderate actuation force and are looking for a switch that offers a balance between responsiveness and comfort, the Ragdoll is a great fit, boasting a medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams, which may provide a more satisfying tactile response during typing or gaming sessions. Its unique nylon-fiberglass housing produces a distinct clacky sound that adds character to your setup. On the other hand, if you prefer something lighter and snappier, the Splash Brothers’ bottom out force of 48 grams combined with its shorter activation makes it a faster, more dynamic option well-suited for rapid key presses. The creamy sound signature and mild to bouncy feel make it accessible and enjoyable for both casual and extended use, appealing especially to those who prioritize a smooth, pleasant typing experience. Therefore, consider what aspects are most important for your daily typing or gaming needs—whether it's sound, responsiveness, or feel—to make the best choice between these two excellent linear switches.
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