Bsun Ragdoll vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Bsun Ragdoll and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options on the market today are the BSUN Ragdoll and the TTC Venus, each offering unique characteristics suited to different typing preferences. The Ragdoll, known for its Y3 stem, delivers a notably smooth travel experience paired with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, producing a satisfying clacky sound that many typists enjoy. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate an audible feedback while typing and seek a straightforward linear switch. In contrast, the TTC Venus boasts an innovative internal design that creates a frictionless glide, reminiscent of the delightful texture of chewy mochi. Its light actuation allows for rapid, effortless typing, and the subdued sound signature ensures a quieter environment, making it perfect for those who prefer a muted, polished feel while they work. Ultimately, both switches cater to different experiences—one embraces a more traditional, tactile feedback, while the other champions a refined, understated typing experience. 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Ragdoll and the TTC Venus, we see a divergence in the type of materials used for their respective top and bottom housings, which leads to differing acoustic characteristics. The Ragdoll features a nylon top and bottom housing, a classic choice known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. This characteristic enables the nylon to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the TTC Venus utilizes a POM top housing that creates a unique, pleasing sound profile, similarly geared toward deeper, more muted tones, although the POM offers a different tactile sensation owing to its material properties.
In contrast to its top housing, the Ragdoll uses nylon for its bottom housing, maintaining a consistent acoustic output characteristic of softer materials. This uniformity reinforces the rounded sound profile. The TTC Venus, however, pairs its POM top with a polycarbonate bottom housing that introduces a higher-pitched and crisper sound due to the polycarbonate's stiffer nature. This combination of materials results in a sound profile that is sharper and more resonant, especially noticeable during the bottom-out sound when a key is pressed. The differences in material influence how each switch interacts with the user: the Ragdoll's consistent sound might appeal to users favoring a more uniform auditory experience, while the Venus offers a contrasting combination that may favor those who appreciate a designated depth with added sharpness.
Ultimately, while each switch utilizes different materials for their housings, they share a common goal of delivering effective sound profiles that cater to user preferences. If one were to analyze both switches, they would discover that although the Ragdoll leans towards a warmer, softer auditory feel due to its all-nylon design, the TTC Venus achieves a unique sound through its combination of POM and polycarbonate. For enthusiasts who prefer the individual traits of each material yet desire to create a satisfying typing experience, experimenting with similar sound profiles can lead to comparable acoustic results, despite the inherent characteristics of each housing type.
Weight
Both the Bsun Ragdoll and TTC Venus linear switches exhibit identical specifications, featuring an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing them as medium-light switches. This similarity means that users should expect a comparable typing experience, with equal ease of keystroke activation and resistance when bottoming out. Both switches are well-suited for prolonged use, making them ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch, such as those who type extensively at work or engage in long gaming sessions. However, individuals seeking a more substantial feel might find these medium-light forces less satisfying than heavier alternatives. In summary, with both options having the same actuation and bottom out forces, users can anticipate similar performance and comfort from either switch.
Travel distance
The Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.8 mm, resulting in a similar experience when pressing down on a key. This identical travel distance means that users can expect a consistent feel in terms of key actuation, allowing for similar typing and gaming outcomes with both switches. Since both switches share this travel measurement, they will provide users with an equivalent range of movement from the top to the bottom, ensuring a comparable tactile experience in practical use. Thus, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other; they offer the same travel distance of 3.8 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 Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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 its clacky tone, thanks to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, which contributes to a more pronounced auditory feedback. In contrast, the TTC Venus linear switch has a more subdued sound signature, described as muted and low-pitched. This results in a quieter typing experience that is less intrusive, making it suitable for both home and office environments where noise levels may be a concern. While the Ragdoll's clacky sound delivers a satisfying auditory response favored by some typists, the Venus offers a more neutral and thocky experience, appealing to users who prefer subtlety over pronounced feedback.
In terms of feel, the Ragdoll’s characteristics are less defined in the provided information, but it is implied that it offers a smooth travel experience due to its Y3 stem design. On the other hand, the TTC Venus is noted for its buttery, frictionless glide, creating an incredibly smooth and effortless keystroke. Additionally, the Venus switch incorporates a "Q-texture," reminiscent of the chewiness of mochi, providing a unique tactile sensation that enhances the typing experience. While the Ragdoll may offer a pleasant keystroke as well, the Venus clearly stands out with its polished and refined feel, providing a gentle yet responsive typing experience.
Overall, both the Bsun Ragdoll and TTC Venus switches cater to specific preferences in sound and feel, each offering a unique typing experience. The Ragdoll's clacky sound delivers an engaging auditory feedback, while the Venus promotes a quiet yet refined feel that makes typing effortless. If a user values a more pronounced sound and potentially a smooth actuation, they might gravitate toward the Ragdoll. Conversely, those seeking a quiet, buttery feel with a soft sound signature would likely appreciate the Venus. Ultimately, both switches deliver distinct experiences, making them excellent choices depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a clacky sound with a slightly more pronounced auditory feedback, the Ragdoll might be your best choice, especially because its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing contributes to its unique acoustic profile. This switch is great for those who appreciate a tactile typing experience and don't mind a bit of noise during their gaming sessions or text-heavy work. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtler sound signature and prioritize an ultra-smooth, frictionless feel, then the TTC Venus should be your go-to. The unique "Q-texture" feel of the Venus provides a springy yet muted typing experience, making it well-suited for environments where quietness is paramount, such as shared workspaces or late-night typing. Ultimately, your choice should be guided by whether you lean towards a more auditory, engaging experience with the Ragdoll or a smooth, low-noise experience with the Venus.
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