SP-Star Ayara vs. Bsun Dragon Fruit
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Bsun Dragon Fruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the SP-Star Ayara and the Bsun Dragon Fruit. The Ayara is a linear switch known for its medium heftiness, making it ideal for those who prefer a robust typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, it provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Dragon Fruit is a tactile switch with a long pole stem that offers a sharp, definitive bottom-out for tactility enthusiasts. It provides significant tactile feedback with a satisfying bump at each press, along with a clacky sound signature for an engaging typing experience. While the Ayara is characterized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Dragon Fruit is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. Each switch has its own unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Bsun Dragon Fruit switches offer contrasting qualities. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Dragon Fruit utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffness. While both materials offer their own unique sound characteristics, the Ayara's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, whereas the Dragon Fruit's polycarbonate top housing produces a more clear and resonant sound.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, both the Ayara and the Dragon Fruit utilize nylon material. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. Despite the different top housing materials between the two switches, their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing allows for a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and profile. Therefore, if sound is a significant factor for a user, the choice between the two switches may ultimately come down to the top housing material and the specific sound characteristics desired.
The impact of having different top and bottom housing materials in a switch is noteworthy as it splits the qualities of each material between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction emphasizes the importance of selecting the right housing materials for both the top and bottom of a switch to achieve the desired sound profile and typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the nylon top housing of the Ayara and the polycarbonate top housing of the Dragon Fruit may come down to personal preference in sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch, it is clear that the Dragon Fruit is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Ayara's unknown grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Ayara at 62 grams and the Dragon Fruit at 65 grams. This means that while the Dragon Fruit may require less force to initially actuate a keystroke, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of overall pressure needed to fully press down a key. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Dragon Fruit, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might opt for the Ayara for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch, it is clear that the Ayara has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dragon Fruit has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Ayara's 4.0mm distance provides a more traditional feel, with a deeper pressing motion, while the Dragon Fruit's 3.4mm distance is shallower, offering a quicker response time favored by gamers. Both switches cater to different preferences, as some may prefer the more responsive Dragon Fruit, while others may enjoy the deeper feel of the Ayara. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Ayara has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ayara for $5.40.
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 Ayara linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users in various settings. On the other hand, the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch produces a clacky sound signature that adds to the lively and engaging typing experience it provides. The sharp and crisp sound when pressed by the Dragon Fruit can be preferred by those who enjoy a more distinct auditory feedback during typing sessions.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Ayara linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch provides an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, creating a pronounced bump at each press without being overwhelming. The snappy and responsive nature of the Dragon Fruit enhances the typing sensation, making it ideal for users seeking a more dynamic tactile experience.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ayara provides a medium heftiness with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, the Dragon Fruit stands out with its long pole stem for a sharp bottom-out and the most significant tactile feedback in the lineup. Both switches cater to different preferences in typing experiences, and whether you choose the Ayara or the Dragon Fruit, you can expect a satisfying and engaging keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-weight switch with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the Ayara would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you desire a medium-heavy switch with sharp tactile feedback, a definitive bottom-out, and a lively typing experience, the Dragon Fruit would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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