Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Dragon Fruit switch stands out for its long pole stem, delivering a sharp and definitive bottom-out that tactile enthusiasts appreciate. With significant tactile feedback and a clacky sound signature, it provides a lively and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch lacks the same tactile feedback but offers a smooth and consistent typing experience. It is a linear switch that provides a straightforward keypress without any bumps or clicks. While the Dragon Fruit switch is best for those seeking a tactile typing experience, the Outemu Black switch is ideal for users who prefer a quieter and more linear 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
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Dragon Fruit and Outemu Black both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Dragon Fruit and Outemu Black differ in their bottom housing material. The Dragon Fruit utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Black also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar sound experience to the Dragon Fruit.
While both the Bsun Dragon Fruit and Outemu Black have polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharp sound profile, they diverge in their bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. This distinction showcases how different housing materials can affect sound and typing experience in mechanical switches.
In summary, the Bsun Dragon Fruit and Outemu Black have similarities in their polycarbonate top housing that produce a sharp, high-pitched sound profile. Their differences lie in the bottom housing material, with nylon providing a deeper sound profile that absorbs more sound. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a varied typing experience, with each housing material influencing different aspects of sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the heavier actuation force of 65 grams for the Outemu Black linear switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dragon Fruit requires 65 grams while the Black switch demands 82 grams. The Dragon Fruit offers a more medium-heavy feel, suitable for those wanting a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch provides a heavier typing experience, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel when pressing the keys. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Dragon Fruit offering a lighter option and the Outemu Black providing a heavier option for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Black has a longer travel distance compared to the Dragon Fruit. The shorter travel distance of the Dragon Fruit may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Black switch may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Black comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the BSUN Dragon Fruit switch offers a unique and clacky sound signature that adds a lively element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Black switch is not specifically known. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Dragon Fruit switch provides a moderate amount of tactile feedback, creating an invigorating typing sensation that is not too overpowering. The sharp and distinct tactile bump of the Dragon Fruit switch, combined with its snappy and responsive feel, offers a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts looking for a tactile switch that delivers a pronounced feedback. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the Outemu Black switch is not known, so it is hard to directly compare its tactile characteristics with those of the Dragon Fruit switch.
In conclusion, the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch stands out for its pronounced tactile feedback, sharp bump, and clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts seeking a lively and engaging feel. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Black linear switch are not provided, it is safe to say that if you prefer the unique qualities of the Dragon Fruit switch, you may also enjoy a similar experience with the Outemu Black switch in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, you should choose the Dragon Fruit if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a sharp, definitive tactile feedback with a clacky sound signature. The Dragon Fruit offers an invigorating and sharp typing experience with a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. On the other hand, you should opt for the Outemu Black if you prefer a heavier bottom out force. The Black switch does not offer tactile feedback but provides a smooth, linear typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for tactile feedback and bottom out force. Both switches have their unique qualities, so consider your typing style and preferences when making your decision.
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