Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the BSUN Dragon Fruit, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Type L, a linear switch. The Dragon Fruit stands out with its long pole stem, providing a definitive bottom-out that tactile enthusiasts appreciate. It offers significant tactile feedback and a clacky sound signature, resulting in a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Type L from Gateron is part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," offering a lighter touch and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While the Dragon Fruit is accented and sharp, the Type L is more neutral and feathery. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials for the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Type L switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The Dragon Fruit utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Type L's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent polycarbonate of the Dragon Fruit allows for RGB lighting effects, while the opaque nylon of the Type L provides a more classic look.
Although both switches share a nylon bottom housing material, the Dragon Fruit and Type L switches offer similar sound profiles with regards to the bottom-out sound and feel. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile for both switches. However, when it comes to the impact on the sound when pressing and releasing a key, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dragon Fruit will provide a crisper sound compared to the Type L's nylon top housing.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials for switches such as the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Gateron Type L plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. While the Dragon Fruit's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and higher-pitched sound, the Type L's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a similar bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the switches highlight the variety of options available to keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific sound and feel for their typing experience.
Weight
The Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Type L linear switch, which requires only 38 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Dragon Fruit switch also requires more force at 65 grams compared to the Type L's 45 grams. The Dragon Fruit switch is considered medium-heavy in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, while the Type L switch is on the lighter side. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods may lean towards the Type L switch, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Dragon Fruit switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Dragon Fruit has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm distance of the Type L switch. This means that the Dragon Fruit offers a quicker response time, which may be favored by gamers looking for fast reactions. On the other hand, the Type L switch provides a longer travel distance of 4 mm, which some users may find offers a more substantial and satisfying key press. Both options have their benefits depending on personal preferences, with the Dragon Fruit being the shorter option and the Type L being the longer option. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time.
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 L 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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch offers a clacky sound signature that adds to the overall typing experience, making each press engaging and lively. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch provides a more subdued sound, leaning towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Dragon Fruit being more lively and the Type L being more neutral and subtle. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps in use.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Dragon Fruit switch offers a tactile experience with a sharp and definitive bottom-out, creating a satisfying bump at each press. This switch provides an invigorating and immersive typing sensation, with a prominent tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Type L switch provides a comfortable and low-impact typing feel, making it suitable for various uses such as gaming, school, or work.
In conclusion, the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dragon Fruit switch excels in providing a lively and tactile typing experience with a clacky sound signature, while the Type L switch focuses on a more subdued sound profile and a light actuation force for comfortable typing. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharp and engaging tactile feedback or a feathery and easy-to-press typing experience, both switches offer quality options in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a sharp and definitive tactile feedback that is accompanied by a clacky sound signature, then the Dragon Fruit switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a sound signature that veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, along with a light and easy-to-press feel, then the Type L switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing preferences, whether you prioritize tactility or smoothness, and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that resonates most with you.
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