Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch to the HMX EMO linear switch, it's clear that they both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dragon Fruit switch is praised for its sharp and definitive bottom-out, providing tactility enthusiasts with a satisfying bump at each press. Paired with a clacky sound signature, it offers a lively and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX EMO switch stands out for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force and exceptionally factory-lubed design, delivering an effortless and smooth typing experience. While the Dragon Fruit switch is accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, the EMO switch lacks specific categorization. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the HMX EMO share many similarities, as both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic dimension to the switch design. Therefore, both the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the HMX EMO are likely to provide similar sound profiles and visual appeal when it comes to their top housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the HMX EMO utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that is softer compared to polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches made with this material. The absorbent nature of nylon allows it to dampen sound more effectively than harder plastics, producing a duller and rounder sound overall. Therefore, the bottom housing of both switches contributes to the tactile feel and sound experience when pressing down on the keys, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
While the top and bottom housings of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the HMX EMO differ in terms of material, the qualities each housing material brings are thoughtfully distributed to impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a key role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys, affecting the tactile feedback experienced by users. In contrast, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key, adding to the overall auditory experience of the switch. By combining different housing materials in their design, both switches are able to offer a well-rounded typing experience that caters to both sound and feel preferences of users.
Weight
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the HMX EMO linear switch. The Dragon Fruit requires 45 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the EMO only needs 40 grams to actuate and 46 grams to bottom out, classifying it as a light switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the EMO would be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing, the Dragon Fruit would be ideal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum in terms of travel distance, making them suitable for those looking for quicker response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to the average user, but for gamers or typists looking for that extra millimeter of depth, the EMO switch would provide a slightly longer press. Ultimately, both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm, catering to individuals who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 Bsun Dragon Fruit switch is known for its clacky sound signature, providing a lively and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX EMO switch offers a clacky sound as well, contributing to a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. Both switches will offer a similar auditory experience depending on other factors such as your keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Dragon Fruit switch is described as having an accented tactile feedback that is not overwhelming or subtle, creating a medium tactile typing sensation. The sharp tactile bump of the Dragon Fruit switch provides a distinct and invigorating typing experience. In contrast, the HMX EMO switch is known to deliver a smooth and effortless typing experience due to its factory-lubed components. While the specific feel may vary slightly between the two switches, both are designed to provide a satisfying and responsive typing experience.
Overall, both the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dragon Fruit switch provides a pronounced tactile feedback with a clacky sound, while the EMO switch offers a smooth and bouncy feel with a feather-light bottom-out force. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback and sound, either switch could be a great choice for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience and provide a high level of satisfaction for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch or the HMX EMO linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a medium-heavy switch with a significant tactile bump and clacky sound, the Dragon Fruit is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a light switch with a smooth and bouncy typing experience, the EMO would be more suitable for you. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's essential to consider what type of feel and sound you prefer when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Dragon Fruit and EMO switches depends on what typing experience you value the most.
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