SP-Star Ayara vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and Dareu Firefly stand out as excellent options for different preferences. The Ayara is a linear switch, known for its medium heftness and hearty typing experience. It offers a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly is a tactile switch that offers a unique take on clicky switches. It provides a very light actuation with a subtle hint of clickiness, creating a quiet typing experience without the classic resonant clicky sound. The Firefly switch is perfect for those who prefer easy-to-press keys with a chirpy 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
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Dareu Firefly, we can see that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and ability to absorb sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the Ayara features a nylon top housing, which also contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. While both switches share the same bottom housing material, the difference in the top housing material of the Firefly being polycarbonate creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Ayara's nylon top housing.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Dareu Firefly sets it apart from the SP-Star Ayara, which uses nylon for its top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness and clear characteristics, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Ayara's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on them.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound profile of the switches, we can see how they contribute to the typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether it be nylon or polycarbonate, will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the top housing material, whether it be nylon or polycarbonate, will influence the sound when letting go of a key. Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the SP-Star Ayara and the Dareu Firefly offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, it is evident that the Ayara is lighter in terms of actuation force with None grams compared to the Firefly's 40 grams. However, the Ayara has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the Firefly's bottom out force is unknown. The Ayara provides a medium typing experience in terms of force required, while the Firefly offers a lighter actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Firefly may be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may find the Ayara more suitable. Ultimately, the differing actuation and bottom out forces of the two switches cater to different preferences in typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users can expect consistent key press feedback and performance from both switches. However, despite both switches having the same travel distance, the tactile feedback of the Firefly may provide a different typing experience compared to the smooth linear actuation of the Ayara. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a standard travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Ayara has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ayara for $5.40.
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, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, whether beginners or advanced typists. The sound produced by the Ayara switch is described as high-pitched, giving it a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a chirpy sound with a unique acoustic signature, making it stand out from other switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ayara switch provides a polished typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Firefly switch by Dareu is easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is best suited for those looking for a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound profile and a polished feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offers a quiet typing experience with a hint of clickiness, easy-to-press keys, and a chirpy sound. Depending on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom out force with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the Ayara switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a quiet, light actuation with just a hint of clickiness and easy-to-press keys, the Firefly switches may be more suitable for your typing style. Consider your sound and feel preferences carefully before making your selection to ensure a satisfying typing experience with your mechanical keyboard.
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