Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Lunar Probe offer unique experiences catered to different preferences. The Dragon Fruit stands out as a tactile switch, known for its sharp and definitive bottom-out that appeals to tactility enthusiasts. With a satisfying bump at each press and a clacky sound signature, it provides a lively and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe from Gateron is a linear switch featuring a dual rail mechanism for stable and consistent keypresses. It offers an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed sensation with a subtle sound signature. Each switch has its own characteristics that set it apart, appealing to different typing 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Lunar Probe are quite similar, as both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that intend to utilize RGB lighting. However, where these switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Dragon Fruit's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Lunar Probe also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar characteristics in terms of sound profile.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the split design of having different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switch can have a significant impact. The qualities of the bottom housing material will be felt more when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. This means that the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Dragon Fruit and the Lunar Probe will provide a unique typing experience, with a mix of sharper, crisper sounds from the top housing and deeper, fuller sounds from the bottom housing.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Dragon Fruit and the Lunar Probe offer clear housings due to the use of polycarbonate. This allows for a visually appealing look, especially when combined with RGB lighting. The clarity of the housing can enhance the overall appearance of the switches and add a modern touch to any keyboard setup. While both switches share similar qualities in terms of their top housing material, the use of different bottom housing materials allows for subtle differences in sound profile and typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Lunar Probe will come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, we find that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Dragon Fruit has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Lunar Probe has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Dragon Fruit switch provides a more substantial typing experience, while the Lunar Probe switch allows for lighter typing, making it easier for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Lunar Probe has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Dragon Fruit. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the difference of 0.2 mm between the two may not be significant enough to feel a noticeable distinction in key feel. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar travel distance that caters to those who prefer a shorter and more responsive typing experience.
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 Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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
When comparing the sound of the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch to the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, the Dragon Fruit is known for its clacky sound signature that adds an extra layer of auditory satisfaction to each keypress. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe switch offers a more subtle sound profile, allowing for a quieter typing experience that may be preferred by some users. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also depend on the specific keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dragon Fruit is described as offering an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile sensation that provides a lively and engaging typing experience. This means that users can expect a medium-weight switch with a prominent tactile bump that is both satisfying and noticeable with each keypress. In comparison, the feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is not explicitly described in the provided information. However, linear switches typically offer a smooth and consistent keystroke without the tactile bump found in tactile switches like the Dragon Fruit.
Overall, the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Dragon Fruit excels in providing a tactile and audible typing experience with its sharp feedback and clacky sound signature, ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy a more engaging feel while typing. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe switch ensures stable and smooth keypresses without the tactile bump, appealing to users seeking a quieter and more consistent typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharp, definitive tactile bump, the BSUN Dragon Fruit switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Dragon Fruit offers an invigorating and snappy typing experience with a lively sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter linear switch with a stable and consistent keypress, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch would be more suitable for you. The Lunar Probe provides an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, along with a subtle sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the Dragon Fruit and Lunar Probe switches will depend on your preference for tactility and bottom out force, so consider these factors carefully when selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
