Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch. The BSUN Dragon Fruit stands out for its sharp and definitive tactile feedback, providing enthusiasts with a satisfying bump at each press. Paired with a clacky sound signature, these switches offer a lively and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, perfect for those who prefer a seamless and consistent typing experience. The Jupiter Reds also feature high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, adding to their appeal. 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
60g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and Gateron Jupiter Red switches are quite similar, as both feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is great for showcasing RGB lighting. However, they differ in their bottom housing material - the Dragon Fruit uses nylon, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Jupiter Red also utilizes nylon for a similar effect.
Despite the similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the Dragon Fruit and Jupiter Red switches showcase differences in their overall sound profile due to their choice of bottom housing material. Nylon in the bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound when typing. This means that while the top housing influences the sound when pressing and releasing a key, the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Dragon Fruit and Gateron Jupiter Red switches offer distinct sound profiles despite sharing a polycarbonate top housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience. Whether it be a crisper sound from the polycarbonate top or a fuller sound from the nylon bottom, each housing material contributes unique qualities to the performance of these mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is clear that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Dragon Fruit has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Jupiter Red's 60 grams, making it slightly heavier. The actuation force is crucial in determining the sensitivity of the switch, with a lighter force being preferred for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the bottom out force provides a more robust typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, while both switches offer a similar actuation force, the Dragon Fruit provides a heavier typing experience with its higher bottom out force compared to the Jupiter Red.
Travel distance
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Dragon Fruit's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Jupiter Red's longer travel distance provides a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the Dragon Fruit being quicker and more responsive, while the Jupiter Red offers a deeper and more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance in a switch.
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 Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Dragon Fruit switch boasts a clacky sound signature that provides a lively and engaging typing experience, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various uses. The sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Bsun Dragon Fruit switch offers a sharp and definitive tactile feedback with a satisfying bump at each press, creating an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is known for its polished and creamy feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a distinct typing feel, with the Dragon Fruit being more sharp and snappy, while the Jupiter Red offers a silky and mild typing experience.
In conclusion, the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch excels in providing a pronounced tactile bump and a clacky sound signature, making it a top choice for tactility enthusiasts seeking a sharp and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a smooth and seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, catering to those who prefer a polished and creamy feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a sharp bump and clacky sound, the Dragon Fruit may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium actuation force, the Jupiter Red could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and a distinctive typing feel (Dragon Fruit) or a smooth and neutral typing experience (Jupiter Red). Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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