Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The BSUN Dragon Fruit switch is beloved by tactility enthusiasts for its sharp and definitive bottom-out sensation, along with its medium-weight design that provides a significant tactile feedback and a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is a classic linear switch known for its slightly heavier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. While the Dragon Fruit excels in providing a lively and engaging typing experience with its pronounced tactile bump, the MX Red stands out for its smooth linear actuation and deeper sound profile. 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
N/A
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
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
The housing materials of the Bsnu Dragon Fruit and the Cherry MX Red switches differ in the top housing material used. The Dragon Fruit features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red uses a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dragon Fruit is specifically beneficial for showcasing RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency.
On the other hand, the bottom housing material of both switches is nylon, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of switches is traditional and creates a duller and rounder sound overall. Although the top and bottom housing materials of the switches differ, the qualities each material brings to the sound profile will be split between the bottom and top of the switch. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when you release a key.
In summary, the housing materials of the Bsnu Dragon Fruit and Cherry MX Red switches showcase distinct characteristics in terms of sound profiles. While the Dragon Fruit's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile suitable for RGB lighting, the Cherry MX Red's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a rounder sound profile. The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches ensures a balanced sound experience with unique qualities from each material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is clear that both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Dragon Fruit has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the MX Red, which has an unknown bottom out force. The Dragon Fruit offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy bottom out force, which may suit those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the MX Red's lighter bottom out force may be preferred by individuals who prioritize a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Dragon Fruit offers a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the MX Red switch provides a longer travel distance, which can offer a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired 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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 provides a clacky sound signature that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is described as having a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone when pressed. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, with the Dragon Fruit delivering a sharper and more defined sound compared to the MX Red's deeper and slightly quieter profile.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Dragon Fruit switch is lauded for its accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump at each keypress without being overpowering. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as having a textured feel, indicating a noticeable friction when pressed that some users may find appealing for a unique typing experience. While the Dragon Fruit offers a more pronounced and lively tactile sensation, the MX Red provides a smoother and slightly heavier feel that enhances typing responsiveness.
Overall, the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch stands out for its sharp and engaging tactile feedback accompanied by a clacky sound signature, appealing to tactile enthusiasts seeking a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch offers a deeper and slightly heavier feel with a thocky sound profile, catering to users who prefer a more subtle yet robust typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, choosing between these two switches will result in distinct but equally satisfying results.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, you should consider your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you enjoy a sharp and definitive tactile bump with a clacky sound signature, the Dragon Fruit switch would be an excellent choice for an engaging typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a deeper and thocky sound profile, the Cherry MX Red switch would provide a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the kind of feedback and sound you find most satisfying.
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