Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch to the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, two distinct typing experiences come to mind. The Dragon Fruit is renowned for its sharp and definitive bottom-out due to its long pole stem, providing tactile enthusiasts with a satisfying bump at each press. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray offers a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. While the Dragon Fruit is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Polaris Gray is labeled as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback or a smoother typing feel, each switch offers unique qualities to enhance your overall typing experience. 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
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Dragon Fruit utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sound profile throughout the switch.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, the top housings of both the Dragon Fruit and Polaris Gray switches have a similar impact on the overall sound profile. The polycarbonate used in these top housings creates a sharp and clear sound that resonates well. The transparency of polycarbonate also allows for the passage of light, making it a desirable choice for switches aimed at incorporating RGB lighting effects. In terms of aesthetics, both switches offer a sleek and modern look with their clear top housings. However, the differing bottom housings result in a variance in the sound produced when pressing down on the keys, with the Dragon Fruit providing a deeper sound due to its nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Gray maintains a consistent crispness throughout.
In conclusion, while both the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the SP-Star Polaris Gray share similar top housings made of polycarbonate, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The Dragon Fruit's use of nylon for the bottom housing creates a deeper sound, whereas the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a consistent sharpness. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. Both switches offer a unique typing experience due to the combination of different housing materials, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their individual preferences.
Weight
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Dragon Fruit requiring 65 grams and the Polaris Gray requiring 67 grams. This makes both switches fall into the medium-heavy category for typing force. Some users may prefer the Dragon Fruit for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much fatigue. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier typing feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience that each user desires.
Travel distance
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Dragon Fruit switch will require slightly less force to actuate compared to the Polaris Gray switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Dragon Fruit switch due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deliberate keypress may find the longer travel distance of the Polaris Gray switch more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 is known for its clacky and lively sound profile, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a clean and low-pitched sound that is suitable for most preferences. The Dragon Fruit provides a more pronounced and engaging typing experience audibly, with a sharp and distinctive bottom-out feel that complements its sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch offers a more mellow and neutral sound, making it a versatile option for various typing environments. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches in terms of sound will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
As for feel, the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch is described as sharp, accented, invigorating, and snappy, offering a highly tactile typing experience with a strong and crisp tactile bump. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch provides a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Dragon Fruit switch is geared towards enthusiasts seeking intense tactility and responsiveness, the Polaris Gray switch is more approachable and versatile for a wider range of users.
Taking into account the information provided, the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dragon Fruit switch excels in providing a lively and engaging typing experience with sharp tactility and a clacky sound profile, ideal for tactile enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch offers a clean and low-pitched sound along with a mild and polished feel, making it a versatile option suitable for most users. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering which switch to choose between the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump with a clacky sound profile, the Dragon Fruit is the way to go. This switch offers an invigorating and snappy typing experience that tactile enthusiasts will appreciate. On the other hand, if you prefer a more bouncy and polished typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray switch may be more suitable for you. Its mild and polished characteristics provide a gentle and smooth typing sensation that is approachable to most users. Consider your typing preferences and needs to determine which switch will best suit you for an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
