Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, you are presented with two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Dragon Fruit switch is renowned for its sharp and definitive tactile feedback, making it ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy a pronounced bump with each press and a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch offers an incredibly smooth typing experience, thanks to its UHWMPE housings, and a high-pitched clack that adds a unique touch to each keystroke. While the Dragon Fruit switch is 'Accented' and 'Invigorating', the Tangerine switch is 'Frictionless' and 'Buttery'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for either tactile feedback or smooth linear action. 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
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the TKC Tangerine, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Dragon Fruit's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing offers a brighter sound signature, resulting in resonant clacks that may appeal to users looking for a more distinct typing sound. While both materials have their own strengths, they cater to different sound preferences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Dragon Fruit's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder typing experience. In contrast, the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing offers a bright sound signature, contributing to the overall resonant clacks when typing on switches with such housings. Despite their differences in material, both bottom housings aim to provide a unique sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience for users, catering to those who prefer a deeper or brighter sound when typing.
While the Dragon Fruit and the Tangerine utilize different housing materials for both top and bottom, they each aim to enhance the typing experience through their unique sound profiles. The top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when letting go of a key, while the bottom housing material impacts the sound and feel when bottoming out. Whether one prefers the crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Dragon Fruit or the brighter sound of UHWMPE in the Tangerine, both switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different sound preferences, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences.
Weight
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the TKC Tangerine linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Dragon Fruit has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Tangerine has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Dragon Fruit provides a bit more resistance throughout the keystroke compared to the Tangerine. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Tangerine, as it has a lower bottom out force. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Dragon Fruit due to its heavier bottom out force. In conclusion, while the actuation forces differ slightly between the two switches, both offer a medium to medium-heavy typing experience depending on the user's preferences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, making it shorter than the TKC Tangerine linear switch which has a travel distance of 4mm. This means that the Dragon Fruit allows for a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which would appeal to gamers looking for faster inputs. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch provides a deeper key press with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying and comfortable for typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 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 clacky sound signature, adding an auditory dimension to the typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch produces a high-pitched clack that contributes to a unique typing sound. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience depending on personal preferences and keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Dragon Fruit switch provides an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback with a pronounced bump at each press. This creates a snappy and responsive typing sensation that engages the user with every keystroke. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch offers a frictionless and buttery smooth feel, thanks to the UHWMPE housing material. This results in a polished typing experience with effortless key travel that is pleasant for extended typing sessions.
Overall, while the BSUN Dragon Fruit switch is known for its sharp tactility and clacky sound signature, the TKC Tangerine switch stands out for its smooth feel and high-pitched clack. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different typing styles. Whether you prefer a more tactile and engaging typing experience or a smooth and effortless keypress, both the Dragon Fruit and Tangerine switches provide distinctive options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider your typing preferences. If you appreciate a sharp, definitive bottom-out with significant tactile feedback and a clacky sound, the Dragon Fruit may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an incredibly smooth typing experience with a high-pitched sound and frictionless, buttery feel, the Tangerine switch could elevate your typing to the next level. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you prioritize tactile feedback, sound, and overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
