Bsun Ragdoll vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Bsun Ragdoll and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, both the BSUN Ragdoll and the HMX Swift offer compelling options for enthusiasts and casual users alike, though they cater to different preferences. The Ragdoll, known for its Y3 stem, promises a smooth keystroke and a pronounced clacky sound due to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, appealing to those who enjoy tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction with each press. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out with a unique combination of a deeper sound profile and a remarkably light 42g actuation force, delivering a silky smooth experience that makes it incredibly easy to type on for extended periods. While the Ragdoll emphasizes a more pronounced auditory feedback, the Swift caters to users who prioritize a soft touch and a bouncy response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Ragdoll and HMX Swift offer a fascinating study in similarities, showcasing how the same material can yield comparable results in sound profile and tactile feedback. Both the Ragdoll and Swift feature nylon for both their top and bottom housings, a choice that embraces the acoustic qualities of this versatile plastic. When typing on these switches, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon, attributed to its softer nature. The material's ability to absorb sound minimizes the sharpness often associated with harder plastics, creating a rounded and more muted acoustic experience in both models. Thus, regardless of the specific design, users can anticipate a consistent auditory experience rooted in the inherent properties of nylon.
Moreover, the shared use of nylon for both the top and bottom housing in the Ragdoll and Swift reflects a strategic decision aimed at enhancing the overall typing experience. With nylon's qualities influencing both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key, users will find that the distinction between their experiences with each switch may be minimal. The bottom housing predominantly influences the tactile feedback and physical response felt when actuating a key, while the top housing primarily shapes the sound produced upon key release. Given that both the Ragdoll and Swift utilize the same housing material, the overall tactile and auditory feedback remains consistent, resulting in a seamless transition between the two models in practical usage scenarios.
In conclusion, the comparative analysis of the housing materials in the Bsun Ragdoll and HMX Swift reveals a pivotal similarity that dictates their performance characteristics. The incorporation of nylon in both top and bottom housings ensures that users enjoy a similar acoustic and tactile experience across both switch types. While variations in design or other elements may exist, the core attributes brought forth by nylon remain a constant, delivering a reliably satisfying typing experience that is both enjoyable and rich in sound quality. Therefore, whether one is utilizing a Ragdoll or a Swift, they can expect comparable performance given the shared characteristics of their nylon housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, both exhibit distinct actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different user preferences. The Ragdoll has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Swift is slightly lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, placing it in the light category. This difference means that the Ragdoll requires a bit more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Swift, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Consequently, users who favor lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions may gravitate towards the HMX Swift. In summary, while both switches offer reasonably close specifications, the Ragdoll is heavier, providing a firmer push feel, whereas the Swift's lighter actuation forces make it ideal for users seeking ease in keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, we see a slight difference that may appeal to different user preferences. The Ragdoll features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Swift has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. This makes the Ragdoll the shorter option, which could be beneficial for gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances generally facilitate faster actuation. On the other hand, the Swift, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced keystroke that some users prefer for a deeper typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in feel.
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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 nature, producing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each keystroke. This sound is notably influenced by its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, which contributes to the clanky quality that many users appreciate in a mechanical keyboard. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch stands out with a deeper sound profile thanks to its full nylon housings, diverging from the typical brighter sound signature associated with other HMX switches. While the Ragdoll delivers a punchy sound, the Swift’s deeper tones can provide a more subdued yet rich auditory experience. Both switches will produce distinct sounds, largely influenced by the choice of keyboard construction and keycaps, allowing users to tailor their overall typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Ragdoll switch is known for its smooth travel facilitated by the Y3 stem, creating a pleasant keypress experience that many typists find enjoyable. However, detailed characteristics regarding its actuation force or tactile feel were not provided. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch excels in its tactile feedback, being described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. With a gentle 42g actuation force, the Swift requires minimal effort to activate, making it especially comfortable for extended typing sessions. The combination of light resistance and spring-like feedback can enhance the overall typing experience significantly, allowing for a responsive and low-impact feel.
Overall, both the BSUN Ragdoll and HMX Swift linear switches provide unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Ragdoll offers a clacky sound with a smooth key travel, ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced audio feedback. In contrast, the Swift promises a deep sound with an effortlessly comfortable feel, delivering a smooth and buoyant typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, users may gravitate toward one over the other, but both switches will ultimately provide satisfying results tailored to different typing styles and sound preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Ragdoll and the HMX Swift linear switches, your choice should primarily reflect your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you favor a balance of smoothness and a slightly clacky auditory feedback, the Ragdoll may be ideal for you, especially if you appreciate a medium-light actuation force that provides a bit more tactile resistance during typing. This could lend itself well to users who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke sound and feel, perhaps making it suitable for both casual typing and gaming where feedback is key. On the other hand, if you are seeking a more effortless typing experience with an emphasis on light touch and minimal finger fatigue, the Swift should be your go-to option. With its exceptionally light actuation force and a creamy, bouncy feel, it's perfect for prolonged typing sessions, making it highly comfortable for work or gaming. Its deeper sound profile might also appeal to you if you prefer a richer auditory experience while typing. Ultimately, your choice should hinge on whether you prioritize a responsive feel and sound from the Ragdoll or a lighter, smoother experience from the Swift.
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