Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Durock Koala mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features catered to different preferences. The Dragon Fruit stands out for its long pole stem, delivering a sharp bottom-out that tactile enthusiasts appreciate. With significant tactile feedback and a clacky sound signature, this switch provides a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Koala strikes a balance between a punchy keystroke and a more subdued sound profile. Featuring a stepped tactility and a bit of resonance, it offers a different typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Durock Koala both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Dragon Fruit and Koala differ in their nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing.
While both the Dragon Fruit and Koala utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the difference in their bottom housings affects the overall sound and feel of the switches. The split qualities of each housing material impact how the switch responds when pressed and released. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Conversely, the top housing, typically polycarbonate due to its transparency for RGB lighting, influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials provides a unique typing experience for each switch.
In summary, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and Durock Koala results in a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and clearer sound profile. However, the nylon bottom housing of each switch diverges in creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer properties. The split qualities of the top and bottom housings impact how the switches feel and sound when typing. Overall, while the top housings may provide a consistent experience, the bottom housings differentiate the Dragon Fruit and Koala in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock Koala tactile switch, which does not have a specified actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 65 grams for the Dragon Fruit and 67 grams for the Koala, making them both medium-heavy switches. Some users may prefer the Dragon Fruit for its slightly lighter actuation force, which can result in a more comfortable typing experience for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the Koala may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Koala has a longer travel distance compared to the Dragon Fruit. The traditional travel distance is around 4.0mm, making the Koala closer to this standard. Gamers looking for a faster response time might prefer the Dragon Fruit with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more pronounced key press might opt for the Koala. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of 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 Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 offers a clacky sound signature, providing a lively and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Koala switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Dragon Fruit being more lively and clacky, while the Koala is more subdued and neutral. The sound produced by each switch will also be affected by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the BSUN Dragon Fruit switch is accentuated, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a prominent amount of tactile feedback with each keypress. On the other hand, the Durock Koala switch is polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, providing a smoother and refined typing experience with a two-stage tactile feel. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback but with different characteristics, catering to the preferences of users who may prefer either a sharper and snappier feel or a smoother and more refined feel.
In conclusion, the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dragon Fruit provides a lively and engaging typing experience with a clacky sound signature, along with sharp and snappy tactile feedback. In contrast, the Koala offers a more subdued sound profile with a low-pitched tone and a polished, two-stage tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches promise to deliver a satisfying tactile experience, albeit with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider your preference for a more intense tactile feedback experience. If you value a sharp and definitive bottom-out with a clacky sound signature, the Dragon Fruit may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced and pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke, complemented by a bit of resonance without being overly loud, then the Koala switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the kind of typing experience you seek, whether it's invigorating and snappy with the Dragon Fruit or polished and stepped with the Koala. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing style to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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