Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch to the Gateron Luciola linear switch, there are distinct differences that make each switch unique. The Dragon Fruit stands out for its long pole stem, delivering a sharp and decisive bottom-out that appeals to tactile enthusiasts. With significant tactile feedback and a clacky sound signature, typing on the Dragon Fruit switch offers a lively and engaging experience. On the other hand, the Luciola switch grabs attention with its glowing feature in the dark, offering a smooth and bouncy typing feel and a distinct sound profile reminiscent of a shaking spray paint can. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
55g
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
3.60 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Luciola switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Dragon Fruit features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. On the other hand, the Luciola utilizes Gateron's INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. Both switches prioritize sound quality, but achieve it through different materials that cater to distinct preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Dragon Fruit utilizes nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Meanwhile, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also contributes to a high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. Both switches offer a unique typing experience due to the differences in their bottom housing materials, catering to those who prefer a fuller sound (Dragon Fruit) or a sharper, clackier sound (Luciola).
When considering switches with different top and bottom housing materials, it is important to note how each material influences the typing experience. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing the key. In the case of the Dragon Fruit and the Luciola, their unique housing materials contribute to their distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback, catering to a variety of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch provide different typing experiences. The Dragon Fruit has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Luciola's 55 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the Dragon Fruit has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Luciola's 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Dragon Fruit, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may prefer the Luciola. Overall, the Dragon Fruit is lighter in actuation force but heavier in bottom out force, while the Luciola is heavier in actuation force but lighter in bottom out force. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Luciola has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Dragon Fruit. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, if you prefer a bit more depth to the key press, the Luciola may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and key press feel.
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 Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 renowned for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience with each press. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switch offers a unique hollow sound akin to a can of spray paint being shaken. Both switches deliver distinctive sound signatures that enhance the typing experience, giving users a tactile auditory feedback as they type. While the Dragon Fruit switch leans towards a more clacky sound, the Luciola switch offers a fascinating alternative with its spray paint-like sound.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Dragon Fruit switch is characterized by its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a satisfying bump at each press without being overwhelming. Its sharp and snappy actuation provides a reactive and immersive typing sensation. Conversely, the Gateron Luciola switch is known for its snappy and buttery typing feel, emphasizing responsiveness and smooth keystrokes. Both switches deliver a tactile experience that caters to different preferences, with the Dragon Fruit focusing on a distinct tactility while the Luciola ensures a fluid and polished typing experience.
Overall, the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch excels in providing a sharp tactile bump and clacky sound signature, ideal for users seeking a lively and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch stands out with its glow-in-the-dark feature, medium heft, smooth feel, and unique hollow sound profile, offering a different typing experience for those looking for responsiveness and smooth keystrokes. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer quality options in the mechanical keyboard switch market, ensuring users can achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you prioritize a sharp tactile feedback with a clacky sound signature and medium-heavy bottom out force, the Dragon Fruit would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a medium bottom out force, along with glow-in-the-dark aesthetics, the Luciola switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value tactile feedback and sound profile (Dragon Fruit) or smooth keystrokes and unique aesthetics (Luciola). Happy typing!
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