Gateron Aliaz vs. Bsun Dragon Fruit
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Bsun Dragon Fruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch to the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch, it's evident that they both offer unique typing experiences. The Aliaz switch is tailored for quiet environments like the office, providing a medium-heavy weight for a substantial feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dragon Fruit switch stands out with its long pole stem, offering a sharp and definitive bottom-out that tactility enthusiasts appreciate. While the Aliaz switch is known for its muted and polished typing experience, the Dragon Fruit switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback paired with a clacky sound signature. Both switches have their own strengths and suitability for different preferences. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Bsun Dragon Fruit, both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate's stiffness lends itself to creating a more clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches intended for RGB lighting due to its translucency. As a result, users can expect similar sound profiles and characteristics when typing on keyboards fitted with either of these switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. While the Aliaz features a polycarbonate bottom housing, the Dragon Fruit opts for a nylon bottom housing. This contrast leads to variations in the typing experience, with the nylon housing on the Dragon Fruit producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Aliaz. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Dragon Fruit switch. This difference in bottom housing material showcases how material choice can significantly impact the overall typing sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and the Bsun Dragon Fruit ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing experience. Both switches offer the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, delivering a sharp and clear sound profile ideal for those seeking a crisper typing experience. However, the decision between the two switches may be influenced by the type of sound profile one prefers, as the nylon bottom housing of the Dragon Fruit offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Aliaz. It's important to consider how the housing materials of each switch will affect the overall typing feel and sound to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Aliaz also has a heavier bottom out force of 75 grams compared to the Dragon Fruit's bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Aliaz will provide a more substantial typing experience with both a heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Dragon Fruit, which offers a lighter touch overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Dragon Fruit, while users who enjoy a more robust feel when typing may choose the Aliaz. Both switches provide a tactile feel, but with different levels of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch, it is evident that the Aliaz has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dragon Fruit has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Aliaz's 4 mm travel distance is more in line with traditional switches, offering a deeper key press sensation. On the other hand, the Dragon Fruit's 3.4 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for depth and responsiveness. While the Aliaz may provide a more substantial key press, the Dragon Fruit offers a quicker actuation for those seeking a swifter typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Bsun Dragon Fruit has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dragon Fruit for $3.83.
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 Gateron Aliaz switch offers a muted typing experience, producing softer and quieter sound compared to more clacky switches. On the other hand, the Bsun Dragon Fruit switch provides a more lively and engaging sound signature, with a clacky sound that adds to the overall typing experience. Depending on the setup, the Aliaz will give a more subdued typing sound, while the Dragon Fruit will provide a more distinct auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth and refined key presses with reduced friction. In contrast, the Bsun Dragon Fruit switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a prominent tactile feedback with a firm actuation force and a snappy feel. The Aliaz switch focuses on a smoother typing experience, while the Dragon Fruit excels in delivering a more pronounced tactile sensation.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Aliaz switch is ideal for those looking for a quieter and more refined typing experience with medium-heavy weight key presses. On the other hand, the Bsun Dragon Fruit switch is best suited for tactile enthusiasts seeking a sharp and definitive bottom-out with a lively and engaging typing experience. Whether you opt for the Aliaz or Dragon Fruit switch, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz and Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switches, you should consider your environment and typing preferences. If you work in a quiet setting like an office and prefer a medium-heavy switch with a smooth and polished typing experience, the Aliaz switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a livelier typing experience with a sharp, invigorating, and snappy tactile feedback, the Dragon Fruit switches with their clacky sound signature would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics tailored to different preferences, so make sure to choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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