Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Type A offer distinct experiences for users to consider. The Bsun Dragon Fruit stands out for its tactile nature, with a long pole stem that delivers a sharp and definitive bottom-out, perfect for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" focuses on a linear switch design with a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side, ideal for a more subdued typing experience. While the Dragon Fruit is impressive with its accented and invigorating qualities, the Type A provides a neutral and subdued feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Type A switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Dragon Fruit features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that creates a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
When it comes to the bottom housings of these switches, both the Dragon Fruit and the Type A switches utilize nylon material. This commonality means that both switches deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the absorption qualities of nylon. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches is prominent, creating a consistent tactile experience for users. However, the split in housing materials between the top and bottom means that the qualities each material brings to the switch are divided, with differences in sound when pressing down on a key versus releasing it.
Overall, the choice between the Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Type A switches ultimately depends on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience. The Dragon Fruit's polycarbonate top housing provides a crisper and sharper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more resonant typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Type A's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound that may appeal to users looking for a softer and rounder sound profile. Both switches share the benefits of using nylon in the bottom housing, creating consistency in the tactile feedback and sound profile when typing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Dragon Fruit requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams. However, the Dragon Fruit has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Type A has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Dragon Fruit offers a lighter initial touch for typing but requires more force when fully pressed down, providing a balance between light and heavy typing experiences. On the other hand, the Type A switch has a slightly heavier actuation force but a lighter bottom out force, making it suitable for those who prefer a consistent and slightly heavier typing feel throughout. Overall, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with different preferences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Type A linear switch's travel distance of 4 mm. The Dragon Fruit offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for speed and agility. On the other hand, the Type A switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, with the Dragon Fruit being the shorter option and the Type A being the longer 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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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 is known for its clacky sound signature, offering a lively and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch has a sound signature that leans towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum with a more neutral or subdued profile depending on the context in which it is used. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Dragon Fruit switch is described as having an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback that provides a satisfying bump at each press without being overwhelming. This results in a medium tactile experience that is engaging and immersive. In comparison, information on the feel of the Gateron Type A switch is currently unavailable, but based on similar qualities shared by both switches, it can be expected to provide a medium-weight and responsive typing experience.
In conclusion, the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch offers a distinctive tactile feel with a sharp bottom-out and satisfying bump, accompanied by a clacky sound signature for an engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch reimagines traditional travel distances with a deeper sound profile and factory lubing techniques. Both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, and based on the available information, users can expect a tactile and responsive typing experience with either switch choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Dragon Fruit if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, significant tactile feedback with a satisfying bump at each press, and a clacky sound signature for an engaging typing experience. On the other hand, go for the Type A if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum, and a switch that offers a compromise between actuation force and sound profile suitable for various typing intents and purposes. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for bottom out force, tactile feedback intensity, and sound signature to enhance your typing experience.
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