Aflion Blue Sky vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and the Dareu Firefly offer unique experiences for users to consider. The Aflion Blue Sky is a linear switch known for its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly is a tactile switch that offers a new take on clicky switches, being very quiet with a light actuation and hint of clickiness. While the Blue Sky is categorized as high-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Firefly is categorized as easy-to-press and chirpy. Each switch has its own distinct qualities that may appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and the Dareu Firefly both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this common material for their top housing, they may differ in terms of design and aesthetic details.
On the other hand, the Blue Sky features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. Similarly, the Dareu Firefly also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which provides the same qualities of a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite using different materials for their bottom housing, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through the specific sound profiles created by these materials.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the switch's overall performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch.
Weight
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, the Blue Sky also has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Firefly's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Blue Sky would offer a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, the Firefly would provide a lighter typing feel, potentially allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch have 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 amount of travel distance. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results. The 4 mm travel distance for both switches ensures that users will have a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. Overall, the travel distance for both switches is the same, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a moderate amount of travel when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Blue Sky has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Sky for $4.07.
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 Blue Sky linear switch is best suited for those who prefer a high-pitched and clear sound profile. This switch will provide a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which may appeal to individuals who enjoy a more refined and precise auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other clicky switches. The Firefly switch provides a subtle hint of clickiness without the traditional resonant click, creating a distinct acoustic signature that may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Blue Sky linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. With a smooth and refined finish, these switches provide a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle ground zone. The polished surface reduces friction and promotes smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is easy-to-press and offers minimal resistance during key presses. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Blue Sky linear switch excels in providing a high-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offers a unique chirpy sound and an easy-to-press typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth linear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile, then the Aflion Blue Sky switch is the way to go. The 60g bottom out force and high-pitched sound make it a great choice for those who prefer a medium actuation force and a crisp sound when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a light actuation force and a unique chirpy sound, then the Dareu Firefly switch may be more suited to your preferences. The absence of a bottom out force provides a different typing experience compared to the Blue Sky switch. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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