Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and sound profile. The Bsun Dragon Fruit switch is a tactile switch that stands out for its sharp and definitive bottom-out, providing a satisfying bump at each press for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feel. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red switch is a linear switch known for its smooth typing experience and visually stunning light diffuser, making it the ideal choice for those who prioritize aesthetics and prefer a quieter typing sound. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the TTC Flame Red, we can see that both switches have nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This means that both switches will likely produce a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to bottom-out impacts and key presses. However, the Dragon Fruit features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Flame Red has a nylon top housing which will produce a deeper and fuller sound compared to the more resonant sound of the polycarbonate.
Despite having different top housing materials, the Bsun Dragon Fruit and TTC Flame Red share similarities in their nylon bottom housings. Both switches offer a typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's soft and sound-absorbing nature. This means that regardless of the top housing material, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to bottom-out impacts and key presses. However, where they differ is in the top housing material, with the Dragon Fruit featuring a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, while the Flame Red offers a nylon top housing for a deeper and rounder sound.
The combination of different housing materials in the Bsun Dragon Fruit and TTC Flame Red allows for a unique typing experience with varying sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing in the Dragon Fruit provides a clear and resonant sound profile that is sharper and higher-pitched, making it ideal for users who prefer a more crisp sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing in the Flame Red produces a duller and rounder sound that is deeper and fuller, catering to users who enjoy a deeper typing experience. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, offering a consistent typing experience in terms of sound, but it is the top housing material that will significantly impact the overall sound profile of each switch.
Weight
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Dragon Fruit has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Flame Red's lighter bottom out force of 54 grams. In terms of weight, the Dragon Fruit is considered medium-heavy while the Flame Red is medium-light. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Dragon Fruit may be the better option due to its heavier bottom out force. On the other hand, the Flame Red may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Despite the slight difference in bottom out force, users can still expect similar results in terms of actuation force when typing on both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the TTC Flame Red linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Dragon Fruit will provide a more responsive typing experience, favored by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Flame Red switch offers a slightly deeper key press for those who prefer a more substantial feel to their typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Flame Red being on the longer side and the Dragon Fruit being on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 tactile switch offers a clacky sound signature that adds to the overall typing experience, giving it a lively and engaging feel. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of settings and user preferences. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dragon Fruit switch is known for its sharp and invigorating tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump at each key press without being overwhelming. This creates a snappy and responsive typing experience that is sure to please tactility enthusiasts. In comparison, the Flame Red switch offers a milder and more polished feel, with a smooth and refined finish that results in a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone.
Overall, both the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dragon Fruit excels in providing a sharp and definitive tactile feedback coupled with a clacky sound profile for a lively typing experience, while the Flame Red stands out with its visual appeal and neutral sound profile, offering a weighty smoothness and a polished typing feel. Depending on whether you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback or a gentle typing experience, either switch can provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, pronounced feedback, and a sharp, clacky sound profile, the Dragon Fruit would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, a weighty smoothness, and a clacky sound profile, the Flame Red would be more suitable, especially if you have a backlit, RGB keyboard. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and actuation force. Make sure to test both switches out if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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