Kailh Berry vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, there are distinctive qualities that set them apart. The Berry switch offers a hefty and springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture, providing a deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Firefly switch is known for its quiet actuation and light clickiness, offering a new take on clicky switches without the classic resonant sound signature. While the Berry switch may be ideal for those seeking a textured, low-pitched, and bassy typing experience, the Firefly switch appeals to individuals looking for an easy-to-press and chirpy switch. 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
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Dareu Firefly, both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Similarly, both keyboards employ nylon for the bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches.
Despite both keyboards using the same materials for their respective top and bottom housings, the distribution of these materials results in slightly different experiences. The qualities of the bottom housing, influenced by nylon, have more impact on the sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing, which is polycarbonate in both cases, affects the sound when releasing a key. This split of qualities between top and bottom housing allows for a nuanced typing experience, with different sensations depending on whether keys are being pressed or released.
Overall, the housing materials chosen for the Kailh Berry and the Dareu Firefly contribute to their unique sound profiles and tactile feedback. While both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound and nylon bottom housings for a fuller sound, the distribution of these materials offers slight variations in typing experience. Whether it's the impact on bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing or the influence on sound at key release from the top housing, these differences add to the overall typing sensation on each keyboard.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, we find that the Berry has a bottom out force of 70 grams, but the actuation force is unspecified. On the other hand, the Firefly has an actuation force of 40 grams with no information on the bottom out force. This means that the Berry switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force, while the Firefly is lighter in terms of actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Firefly may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Berry may be the preferred choice due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on typing style and desired experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch. A difference of 0.4 mm may not seem significant, but for those who prefer a more responsive keystroke, the shorter travel distance of the Berry switch may be ideal. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the faster response times that come with a shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more pronounced key press and a greater sense of depth may find the longer travel distance of the Firefly switch to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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 Kailh Berry linear switch provides a low-pitched and bassy typing experience, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is described as chirpy, with a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. The Firefly switch is quieter without the classic resonant clicky sound, providing a light actuation with a hint of clickiness. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so results may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its textured typing experience, with noticeable friction when pressed. This adds a springy quality to the typing feel, creating a chalk-like texture as you type. In contrast, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is described as 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 extended typing sessions. Both switches provide a unique typing experience, with the Berry focusing on a textured feel and the Firefly emphasizing ease of typing.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switch provides a deep, bassy sound profile with a textured typing experience, while the Firefly switch offers a quiet, chirpy sound with an easy-to-press feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, allowing users to customize their keyboard setup based on their individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a textured typing experience with a deeper sound profile or a quieter, easy-to-press feel with a hint of clickiness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a chalk-like texture and deep sound profile, the Berry switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation with just a hint of clickiness and a quiet typing experience, the Firefly switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and needs.
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