Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Bsun Dragon Fruit switch is a tactile switch that is best known for its long pole stem, providing a sharp and definitive bottom-out that tactile enthusiasts will appreciate. This switch offers the most significant tactile feedback in the lineup, giving a satisfying bump with each press and a clacky sound signature for an engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix switch is a clicky switch with a unique under-skirt click mechanism that sets it apart. This switch offers a crystalline and sparkling typing feel and sound profile that is unmatched. While the Dragon Fruit switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Phoenix switch is categorized as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own distinct qualities that appeal to different 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Outemu Phoenix, it is evident that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an excellent material for achieving a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to enhance the visual appeal of the switches.
However, where the Dragon Fruit differs is in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, while the Phoenix maintains polycarbonate for both top and bottom. Nylon, being a softer plastic, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. The absorption of sound by nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience than that of the Phoenix. This contrast in bottom housing material showcases how the selection of materials can influence the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Dragon Fruit and the Phoenix will depend on personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The Dragon Fruit's combination of polycarbonate and nylon offers a mix of sharpness and depth, while the Phoenix's uniform polycarbonate housing provides consistency in sound across both top and bottom. Both switches demonstrate the importance of housing materials in shaping the overall typing experience, highlighting how the selection of materials can significantly impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is evident that they have some differences. The Dragon Fruit has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Phoenix, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Dragon Fruit is heavier at 65 grams, while the Phoenix has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Dragon Fruit provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Phoenix offers a lighter actuation force. Both switches fall into the medium range, with the Dragon Fruit leaning towards the heavier side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, whereas the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quicker key response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer these shorter travel distances for increased speed and agility during gameplay. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant enough to affect performance or user experience significantly. Overall, both switches offer a similar travel distance that provides a balance between responsiveness and key depth.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 tactile switch provides a clacky sound signature that adds a lively and engaging element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offers a unique under-skirt click mechanism that results in a crystalline and sparkling sound profile. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback that can enhance the overall typing experience, but the Dragon Fruit switch is more characterized by its clacky sound, while the Phoenix switch stands out for its unique click mechanism.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Dragon Fruit switch is known for its sharp, definitive bottom-out and significant tactile feedback that satisfies tactility enthusiasts. It offers a medium-weight switch with a satisfying bump at each press, creating an invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. While both switches offer tactile feedback, the Dragon Fruit switch is more accentuated and sharp in its tactility, while the Phoenix switch focuses on providing a polished and smooth typing experience.
In conclusion, the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Dragon Fruit switch excels in providing a clacky sound signature and sharp tactile feedback, ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch stands out for its unique click mechanism and polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide excellent options that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch or the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with significant tactile feedback and a clacky sound signature, then the Dragon Fruit switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique clicky switch with a crisp and crunchy sound profile and a polished, smooth key travel experience, then the Phoenix switch may be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it is important to consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Dragon Fruit and Phoenix switches will depend on what typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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