Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dragon Fruit stands out for its sharp and definitive bottom-out, providing tactile enthusiasts with a satisfying bump at each press. Paired with a clacky sound signature, this switch offers a lively and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch delivers a thocky sound profile and smooth keystroke due to its fully nylon construction. It is a great choice for enthusiasts seeking a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. While the Dragon Fruit is accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, the Cold Plum offers a different appeal. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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 housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer unique characteristics when it comes to sound profiles and typing experience. The Dragon Fruit's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Cold Plum's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in top housing material results in distinct auditory feedback for users of each switch. Similarly, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, although the Dragon Fruit's nylon bottom housing may have a duller and rounder sound compared to the Cold Plum's.
In terms of material properties, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dragon Fruit provides a stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound profile. In contrast, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in material stiffness affects the overall typing experience and sound output of each switch. Additionally, the split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches results in a mix of qualities that influence both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and Outemu Cold Plum switches provide different sound profiles and typing experiences, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches results in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the differences in top housing materials, with polycarbonate in the Dragon Fruit and nylon in the Cold Plum, lead to variations in sound characteristics such as sharpness and depth. Overall, the choice of housing material in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of each key press, offering users a customized typing experience based on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, there are some differences to consider. The Dragon Fruit has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Cold Plum, which has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. Both switches fall under the medium-heavy category, providing a solid typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Dragon Fruit for longer typing sessions, while the Cold Plum offers a more substantial push feel for those seeking a heavier force. Overall, while there are some variations in force between the two switches, both provide a satisfying typing experience based on individual preference.
Travel distance
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch both offer relatively short travel distances compared to more traditional switches. The Dragon Fruit has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, slightly longer than the Cold Plum's 3.3 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Dragon Fruit offers a slightly longer key press. Gamers may prefer the Cold Plum for its slightly quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses may opt for the Dragon Fruit. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with the Cold Plum being slightly shorter than the Dragon Fruit.
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 Cold Plum 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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Dragon Fruit switch offers a clacky sound profile, which adds to the overall tactile experience of typing on these switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is known for its thocky sound profile, providing a different auditory experience that is equally distinct and satisfying. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the BSUN Dragon Fruit is characterized by its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a sharp and snappy typing experience. The prominent tactile bump in these switches provides a satisfying keypress sensation that is immersive and engaging. Conversely, the Outemu Cold Plum switch offers a smooth keystroke and a different tactile feel that is unique and enjoyable, although specific descriptors for this switch's feel are not provided. Both switches provide a distinct and tactile typing experience that enthusiasts are likely to appreciate.
Overall, while the BSUN Dragon Fruit and Outemu Cold Plum switches offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience that will appeal to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the clacky sound and pronounced tactile feedback of the Dragon Fruit or the thocky sound and smooth keystroke of the Cold Plum, either switch will offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a sharp, defined tactile bump with a clacky sound signature, then the Dragon Fruit switches with their medium-weight and significant tactile feedback would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth keystroke and a thocky sound profile, along with a fully nylon construction for durability, then the Cold Plum switches would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound profile.
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