Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. Outemu Lime (V3)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Outemu Lime (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the BSUN Dragon Fruit and the Outemu Lime. The Dragon Fruit switch is praised for its long pole stem that delivers a sharp and definitive bottom-out, offering tactile enthusiasts a satisfying bump with each press. On the other hand, the Lime switch is known for its lightweight nature, approachable tactility, and silencing features, providing a feathery light typing experience with a subtle touch of tactility. While the Dragon Fruit switch offers a lively and clacky typing experience, the Lime switch provides a more muted and polished feel. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Outemu Lime, it is clear that they both use nylon as the material for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This means that typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will result in a rounder and duller sound overall. However, the Dragon Fruit utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic material leads to a more clear and resonant sound, especially when the switch is released.
When it comes to the top housing of the switches, the Bsun Dragon Fruit's polycarbonate housing stands in contrast to the Outemu Lime's nylon housing. The polycarbonate material of the Dragon Fruit creates a more transparent and visually appealing housing, making it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Lime offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This contrast in materials results in a difference in sound when pressing down on the switches, as the qualities of the top and bottom housings impact the bottom-out and release sounds differently.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Outemu Lime, it is important to note that both switches offer unique sound profiles thanks to the specific characteristics of their housing materials. While the Dragon Fruit's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the Lime's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics, as well as any specific features like RGB lighting that may be influenced by the housing material used.
Weight
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, with the Dragon Fruit being heavier and the Lime being lighter. The Dragon Fruit has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. In comparison, the Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, classifying it as light. This means that the Dragon Fruit provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Lime offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches have their advantages, with the Dragon Fruit being suitable for those who prefer a heavier force and the Lime ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Dragon Fruit would be considered the longer option in this case, albeit by a small margin. Both switches offer a balance between responsiveness and depth, with the choice between the two ultimately depending on personal preference for travel distance. If you desire a more abrupt feel, the Dragon Fruit may be the better option, while the slightly shorter travel distance of the Lime may provide a quicker response time for those seeking speed. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between these two switches is minimal, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall feel and performance.
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 Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40 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 tactile switch is known for its clacky sound signature, providing a lively and engaging typing experience with a distinctive audible feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile with a muted characteristic, making it a quieter option suitable for various environments. It is essential to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Dragon Fruit switch is described as invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a pronounced tactile feedback with a firm actuation force for an immersive typing sensation. In contrast, the Outemu Lime switch is characterized as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with a light actuation force and a smooth key travel. Both switches offer unique tactile qualities, catering to different preferences in terms of typing feel.
Overall, the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch stands out for its sharp tactile feedback, clacky sound signature, and medium-weight design, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a lighter feel, approachable tactility, and silenced operation, making it a suitable option for those looking for a quieter and gentler typing experience. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback, sound level, and typing feel, both switches provide distinct qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences and the type of typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, you should consider your preference for tactile feedback and actuation force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharp, definitive tactile bump with a clacky sound signature, then the Dragon Fruit switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a more approachable tactility, and want a softer and quieter typing experience, then the Lime switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing and sound preferences, as well as the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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