Bsun Ragdoll vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Ragdoll and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Ragdoll and the Outemu Yellow Silver are two linear options that cater to different preferences and needs. The Ragdoll is renowned for its Y3 stem, providing exceptionally smooth travel, complemented by a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that delivers a distinctive clacky sound. This makes it an appealing choice for users who appreciate a tactile auditory feedback while typing or gaming. Conversely, the Outemu Yellow Silver specializes in a lightweight actuation force, making it ideal for gamers and typists seeking a fast and responsive experience without the distraction of pronounced noise, thanks to its neutral sound profile. Both switches have their merits, with the Ragdoll focusing on auditory feedback and a smooth typing experience, while the Yellow Silver prioritizes speed and discretion. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
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
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 Outemu Yellow Silver, a significant distinction lies in the top housing. The Ragdoll features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Yellow Silver uses a polycarbonate top housing, which lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This contrast is rooted in the inherent properties of the materials: nylon's softer composition enriches a duller sound, while polycarbonate, being stiffer, produces clearer and more resonant acoustics. This difference will ultimately influence the overall typing experience, as each switch will resonate differently based on the materials used in their construction.
Despite the differences in top housing, both the Ragdoll and Yellow Silver switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, creating a sense of consistency in sound production where it matters most. The nylon bottom housing in both cases contributes to a deeper sound profile during the key actuation, as it absorbs sound waves more efficiently. This shared attribute ensures that, while the top housings will create distinct auditory characteristics, the bottom housing mitigates some of this disparity, promoting a fuller sound experience overall. Thus, regardless of the diverging materials in the top housing, the nylon in the bottom provides a level of cohesiveness, emphasizing the deeper, rounder sound associated with nylon.
Furthermore, the practical implications of the differing materials in these switches extend beyond sound to their impact on light diffusion and aesthetics. The polycarbonate top of the Yellow Silver is designed for transparency, enhancing any RGB lighting effects and creating a visually dynamic experience for users who appreciate illuminated keyboards. Meanwhile, the nylon top of the Ragdoll, while effective in sound absorption, does not offer the same level of light diffusion. Taken together, both switches offer unique yet complementary features: users can expect a powerful auditory performance from both switches due to the nylon bottom housings, while the overall experience will be shaped by the characteristics of the top housings, ultimately catering to different preferences in sound and visual appeal.
Weight
Comparing the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch reveals some intriguing similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch that can enhance longer typing sessions or extended gaming. However, the bottom out force differs slightly, with the Ragdoll registering at 52 grams and the Yellow Silver at 55 grams. This slight distinction means that while both switches feel similar during normal use, the Yellow Silver provides a somewhat heavier bottom out experience, appealing to those who favor a more substantial feedback when fully actuating the key. Overall, the Ragdoll's lighter bottom out force may cater more to users looking for ease and comfort, whereas the Yellow Silver offers a firmer feel when bottoming out, which might be preferable for those seeking a more pronounced tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, the Bsun Ragdoll has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Outemu Yellow Silver features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the longer of the two. This 0.2 mm difference may seem minor, but it can significantly affect the typing experience. For users who favor responsiveness and quicker actions, the shorter 3.8 mm travel distance of the Ragdoll switch would likely provide a more satisfying experience. In contrast, the Yellow Silver switch offers a more traditional depth, which some may prefer for its more substantial feel when pressed. Thus, your choice ultimately hinges on whether you value a faster response or a deeper keystroke.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 BSUN Ragdoll linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound that arises from its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, providing a distinct auditory experience that many users find engaging. This contrast in sound profile can offer a satisfying feedback component, making it a delightful option for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic response while typing or gaming. In comparison, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch presents a neutral sound profile. This balance makes it versatile, allowing it to cater to diverse environments without causing distractions, whether you're at home or in an office setting. While the Ragdoll may appeal to those who enjoy a more noticeable sound, the Yellow Silver provides a subtler auditory experience that complements its functionality for fast-paced tasks.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Ragdoll switch boasts a Y3 stem designed for smooth travel, which enhances typing fluidity and responsiveness. This smooth action can be particularly appealing for users who are looking for a tactile enjoyment in their keystrokes. Conversely, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch features a light actuation force, aimed at promoting quick responses suitable for gaming and fast typist needs. This can result in a more effortless keystroke experience, making the Yellow Silver great for those who favor speed and rapid input. While the Ragdoll may offer a more distinct tactile quality, the Yellow Silver shines in providing a lightweight and breezy typing experience that encourages rapid key presses.
In summary, both the BSUN Ragdoll and Outemu Yellow Silver linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Ragdoll offers a clacky sound and smooth travel that appeals to users who appreciate auditory feedback, while the Yellow Silver provides a neutral sound profile with a light actuation force that enhances speed and responsiveness. Depending on your priorities—whether it's a more dynamic sound or a focus on rapid performance—you can expect a solid experience from either switch, although the unique characteristics of each may better suit different types of users.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences in feel and sound. If you are someone who enjoys a clackier sound profile and a smoother travel experience, the Ragdoll is likely your best bet, especially with its Y3 stem design that enhances smoothness, making it suitable for both typing and casual gaming. On the other hand, if you're a gamer or typist who prioritizes responsiveness and speed, the Yellow Silver with its slightly firmer bottom out force may better meet your needs. Its neutral sound profile makes it versatile enough for both gaming and office environments, ensuring minimal disruption. Therefore, consider your primary use; if you prefer a bit more auditory feedback and smoothness, go for the Ragdoll, while if you value responsiveness and a more subdued sound experience, the Yellow Silver is the way to go.
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