Akko Botany vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience and overall satisfaction. The Akko Botany switches, categorized as linear, are celebrated for their crisp, lively clacky sound that adds a touch of auditory feedback to your keystrokes, making them ideal for those who appreciate a more dynamic and engaging typing rhythm. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly switches take a unique approach as they offer a tactile experience without the traditional loud clicking noise typically associated with clicky switches. Instead, these easy-to-press, chirpy switches provide a light actuation with just a hint of clickiness, catering to users who prefer a subtler sound while still enjoying tactile feedback. Choosing between these two options often comes down to personal preference: if you desire a vibrant sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the Akko Botany may be your best bet; however, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a touch of tactile feedback, the Dareu Firefly could be the perfect fit. 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
38g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon Pro
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
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and Dareu Firefly switches, it's clear that their construction contributes significantly to their overall sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Botany features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Firefly is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer material, results in a higher-pitched and crisper sound, enhancing the clarity of the switch. This difference not only affects how the switches feel and sound during use but also how they might complement or conflict with other system components, particularly if RGB lighting is involved, since the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for better light diffusion.
Interestingly, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, which adds consistency in sound profile characteristics at this level. The nylon bottom housing in both cases elicits a deeper sound profile, characterized by a more muted auditory response when the switch is bottomed out. Therefore, while the top housing materials diverge significantly in their sound characteristics—creating a contrast between the deeper tones of the Botany and the sharper tones of the Firefly—the nylon bottom housing integrates a similar element across both switches, ensuring that both maintain a cohesive feel when pressed. Thus, the bottom-out experience remains relatively standard, emphasizing a softer sound that unites both switches in their tactile feedback despite the variance introduced by the top housing.
This interaction between the different materials highlights a key consideration in switch design: the impact of each housing type on overall performance. When typing, the experience will ultimately depend on the interplay of both the top and bottom housings. The Botany's nylon top and bottom create an inviting and smooth sound profile, great for those who enjoy a thocky sensation. Alternatively, the Dareu Firefly manages to produce a unique combination of high clarity from its polycarbonate top and the deep undertones of its nylon base, which results in an intriguing balance. Therefore, while the Botany and Firefly serve different auditory preferences through their varied top housings, their shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both can provide satisfactory tactile experiences for users who appreciate different sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, we can observe notable differences in actuation force, while the bottom out force for the Firefly remains unknown. The Botany has a light actuation force of 38 grams, requiring minimal effort to register a keystroke, which can be advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Firefly's actuation force is slightly heavier at 40 grams, suggesting that users may experience a more deliberate push feel, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. The Botany switch has a documented bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating a moderately heavier feel when the key is fully pressed down. Without a bottom out force for the Firefly, we can't draw any direct comparisons in that aspect. Overall, the Botany is the lighter option, while the Firefly is the heavier switch, making the choice ultimately dependent on personal preference regarding typing feel and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, it's clear that the Botany features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Firefly has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference highlights the preferences that players might have when choosing switches; for those seeking quicker response times and a more responsive feel, the Botany's shorter travel distance may be preferable. Conversely, if a user enjoys a more pronounced tactile experience with a deeper key press, the Firefly’s 4 mm travel distance would likely be more appealing. Thus, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Botany has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Botany for $3.11.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko Botany linear switch is known for its crisp, lively clacky sound, producing an engaging auditory experience that many typists and gamers appreciate. It stands out for its pronounced acoustic profile, making each key press satisfying and notable. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offers a more subdued auditory experience, presenting a chirpy quality with a light hint of clickiness. While it lacks the classic resonant click associated with many tactile switches, this unique sound still manages to create an intriguing acoustic environment without being overbearing. Both switches’ sounds can also be influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps used, so the final result may vary based on personal setup.
When evaluating the feel, the Akko Botany linear switch is characterized by its smooth operation, providing a consistent and uninterrupted keystroke which many enthusiasts enjoy for both typing and gaming. Its linear nature means there’s no tactile bump or resistance, allowing for a swift keystroke ideal for those who prioritize speed and fluidity. Conversely, the Dareu Firefly switch is designed to be easy to press, requiring minimal effort to activate. This gentle resistance enhances comfort and typing efficiency, making it particularly well-suited for extended use without significant finger fatigue. The Firefly’s light actuation adds to its approachability, creating a responsive and enjoyable typing experience.
Considering the available information, the Akko Botany linear switch delivers a vibrant sound and smooth feel, making it perfect for users who enjoy a lively acoustic signature and unhindered keystrokes. In contrast, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch opts for a more muted sound profile with gentle tactile feedback, promoting effortless typing. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether one is looking for an energetic sound with a linear feel or a quieter, more comfortable typing experience with subtle tactile feedback; choosing between them will ultimately depend on individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a lightweight feel and enjoy a crisp, lively acoustic experience, the Botany is the ideal option. Its 45-gram bottom-out force makes it easy to type rapidly while providing that satisfying clacky sound that many enthusiasts love. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle auditory experience combined with effortless typing, the Firefly may be better suited for you. Its easy-to-press mechanism offers gentle resistance and a hint of clickiness without the louder sound of traditional clicky switches, making it perfect for long typing sessions where comfort is key. In essence, choose the Botany for an engaging and responsive typing experience laced with pronounced acoustics, or opt for the Firefly if you desire a quiet yet enjoyable tactile sensation that minimizes finger fatigue.
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