Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Outemu Maple Leaf mechanical keyboard switches, both being tactile switches, distinct differences emerge. The BSUN Dragon Fruit switches are famed for their long pole stem, delivering a pronounced bottom-out that appeals to tactile enthusiasts. With a medium weight and significant tactile feedback, these switches offer a satisfying bump with each key press, accompanied by a clacky sound signature for a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf lacks specific standout features but still provides a tactile typing experience. If you prioritize a sharp, definitive bottom-out and lively feedback, the Bsun Dragon Fruit could be your top choice. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 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
pom
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 Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches both utilize nylon as their bottom housing material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that when typing on either of these switches, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches showcases a preference for a more subdued and mellow typing experience compared to switches with harder bottom housings.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the Dragon Fruit features a polycarbonate top housing while the Maple Leaf utilizes a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, showcasing a preference for a more mellow and rounded typing experience. This contrast in top housing materials translates to a noticeable difference in sound and feel when typing on these switches, providing users with options based on their sound preferences.
In summary, the housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches offer a distinct typing experience based on the use of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective top and bottom housings. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Dragon Fruit's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing. This highlights how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience, catering to different preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, we find that both switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in that regard. However, the Dragon Fruit has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Maple Leaf has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This means that the Dragon Fruit will require less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Maple Leaf. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer typing sessions, the Dragon Fruit may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push may opt for the Maple Leaf instead. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch both have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm. The Dragon Fruit has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Maple Leaf has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3mm. Both switches offer a quicker response time, especially favored by gamers. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Maple Leaf may be the better option due to its shorter travel distance. However, if you prefer a bit more depth and cushion when typing, the Dragon Fruit with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar feel in terms of travel distance, so you can expect similar results when typing on either one.
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 Maple Leaf 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 comparing the sound of the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, the Dragon Fruit is known for its clacky sound signature that adds to the overall typing experience, providing a lively and engaging feel. The sound of the Maple Leaf switch is unknown, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard body and keycaps used.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the BSUN Dragon Fruit is characterized by an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still noticeable with each keypress. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is unknown. If the feel of the Maple Leaf switch is similar to the Dragon Fruit based on the available information, users can expect a medium tactile sensation that is not overly sharp or subtle, providing a balanced and immersive typing experience.
In conclusion, the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch stands out for its sharp and definitive bottom-out, significant tactile feedback, and clacky sound signature that contribute to a vibrant typing experience. While information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch is limited, if it aligns with the qualities of the Dragon Fruit, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of tactility and engagement. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, you should choose the Dragon Fruit if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with pronounced and sharp tactile feedback that offers a clacky sound signature. The Dragon Fruit's long pole stem provides a satisfying bump at each press, creating an invigorating and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that is medium-heavy with a different tactile feel, the Maple Leaf may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for the specific type of tactile feedback and sound signature that you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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