HMX Game1989 vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX 1989 and the Dareu Firefly offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The HMX 1989, a linear switch, is celebrated for its deep and thocky feel, making it a popular choice among gamers who appreciate smooth keystrokes without tactile feedback. In contrast, the Dareu Firefly is a tactile switch that reimagines the conventional clicky experience, providing a quiet typing sound while delivering a light actuation with a subtle hint of clickiness—ideal for those who enjoy feedback without the loud noise often associated with traditional tactile switches. While the HMX 1989 might be your preference for uninterrupted gaming sessions, the Firefly could suit your needs if you prefer a softer typing experience with modest tactile cues. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the Dareu Firefly switches both employ polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in distinct auditory characteristics. The use of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributed to its stiffer nature. This stiffer plastic enhances the resonance of each keystroke, allowing for a more dynamic sound that is especially accentuated when paired with RGB lighting. Given that both switches feature this same material for their tops, users can expect similar outcomes in terms of sound clarity and aesthetic appeal, particularly when utilized in a backlit keyboard environment.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both the HMX 1989 and the Dareu Firefly utilizes nylon, which is traditionally recognized for its unique properties that yield a different auditory experience. The inherent softness of nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, effectively absorbing sound waves and delivering a duller, rounder result during use. While the top housing is responsible for the initial keystroke sound, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out noise and tactile feedback upon key release. As a result, the combined use of nylon on the bottom and polycarbonate on the top in both switches creates a balanced auditory profile, allowing for a blend of brightness from the top and warmth from the bottom.
Ultimately, while the HMX 1989 and Dareu Firefly switches share similarities in their top and bottom housing materials, they also underscore the classic principles of keyboard design. With both switches featuring polycarbonate tops for clarity and nylon bottoms for depth, they present a harmonized sound profile that can appeal to various typing preferences. Users can anticipate a consistent keystroke experience that captures the benefits of both materials, ensuring that the overall sound and feel during typing sessions remain enjoyable. This shared material construction points to how key switches can enhance user experience through well-thought-out engineering choices that cater to auditory preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, the HMX 1989 requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, while the Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the Firefly more comfortable, as it requires less force to actuate a keystroke. However, the HMX 1989 offers a stronger push feel, which appeals to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the HMX 1989 has a defined bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a clear feedback when the key is fully pressed. In contrast, the bottom out force of the Firefly is unavailable, leaving users without a specific measure for how much force is needed when the switch is fully depressed. Consequently, while both switches deliver different typing experiences, the HMX 1989 is considered heavier overall due to its greater actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that when you press down on either switch, you'll experience an equivalent distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users looking for switches with consistent keypress depth will feel a uniform response in both cases. As such, if you prefer the characteristics of one switch over the other—whether it be linear action in the HMX 1989 or the tactile feedback in the Firefly—you can expect a comparable experience in terms of travel distance when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Game1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Game1989 for $3.29.
The Dareu Firefly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Firefly for $3.76.
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 characteristics, the HMX 1989 linear switch stands out with a deep and "thocky" acoustic profile. This quality gives it a rich and satisfying sound when keys are pressed, providing a more immersive typing experience particularly suited for those who enjoy a pronounced acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offers a different auditory experience, described as "chirpy." The Firefly’s sound includes a light squeak that can be pleasing in a subtle way but lacks the pronounced clickiness typical of other tactile switches. This results in a quiet typing experience that might appeal to users who prefer a more subdued auditory environment while still enjoying the nuances of key presses. It’s important to remember that the overall sound will also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, which can further shape the aural experience.
In terms of tactile feedback, the HMX 1989 is recognized for its smoothness typical of linear switches, providing an uninterrupted and fluid key press without tactile bumps. This makes it suitable for gamers and typists who favor quick, consistent actuation with minimal resistance. Conversely, the Firefly offers an "easy-to-press" mechanism with gentle resistance, characterized by a light actuation that effectively reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The subtle tactile feedback gives users a sense of engagement without overwhelming them with excessive force needed for keystrokes. This nuanced difference can create varied typing experiences, appealing to those who might prefer either a smooth linear action or a light tactile sensation.
In conclusion, while both the HMX 1989 and the Dareu Firefly serve different user preferences, they each have unique sound and feel qualities that cater to distinct typing styles. The 1989 provides a rich thocky sound and uninterrupted keypress, suitable for users who enjoy a deep auditory experience. In contrast, the Firefly introduces a chirpy sound and easy actuation, catering to those seeking a quieter and more effortless typing session. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, either option could present a satisfying choice, allowing for personal enjoyment in mechanical keyboard use.
Conclusion
To summarize, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you're looking for a switch that offers a deeper, thocky sound profile and a medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams, the HMX 1989 may be more suitable for you, especially if you enjoy a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke—ideal for gaming or general typing where you appreciate a pronounced feel. On the other hand, if you prefer something that is easy to press and focus on quiet and comfortable typing experiences, the Firefly switch would be the way to go. It provides that light actuation with a subtle hint of clickiness without the loud resonant sound often affiliated with traditional clicky switches, making it perfect for environments where noise is a concern or for long typing sessions to mitigate finger fatigue. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value the distinct thock of the HMX 1989 or the gentle, user-friendly response of the Dareu Firefly.
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