Gateron Box CJ vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ linear switch with the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to specific preferences. The Box CJ is designed for those who crave rapid response and a smooth typing experience, with higher-pitched clacks and a glide-like push feel. On the other hand, the Firefly switch stands out for its quiet, light actuation and subtle clickiness, offering a different tactile experience altogether. While the Box CJ is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Chirpy', the Firefly is labeled as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Chirpy'. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style; 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Gateron Box CJ and the Dareu Firefly in terms of housing materials lies in their bottom housings. The Box CJ features a nylon bottom housing, which typically produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Firefly also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. This means that users of both switches can expect a similar auditory experience with a rounder and duller sound when typing on these switches.
In contrast, the top housings of both the Box CJ and the Firefly are made of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic material that results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is particularly beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting due to its translucency, allowing the lighting to shine through effectively. As a result, both switches offer a clear and resonant sound profile when the keys are released, thanks to the characteristics of the polycarbonate top housing they share.
Overall, while the Gateron Box CJ and the Dareu Firefly differ in their bottom housing materials, they share similar qualities in their top housing material, polycarbonate. Both switches offer a distinctive typing experience with a clear and resonant sound profile when keys are released, thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, users of both switches can expect a deeper and fuller sound while typing, thanks to the softer nylon bottom housing used in both models. Ultimately, these housing materials contribute to the overall feel and sound of the switches, making them suitable choices for those seeking a specific typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, it is evident that the Box CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Firefly's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Box CJ is also heavier at 57 grams, while the Firefly does not provide information on its bottom out force. Both switches offer a light to medium actuation force, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Box CJ provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, making it a better choice for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is identical at 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of how far down the key travels when pressed. The Gateron Box CJ and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch are both on the shorter end of the spectrum when compared to other switches with longer travel distances. This shorter travel distance can provide a quicker and more responsive typing experience for users who prefer a shallower key press. Overall, both switches offer a similar level of feedback and actuation force due to their equal travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Box CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box CJ for $5.35.
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 Gateron Box CJ switch offers a clacky typing experience with sharp and snappy sounds that are crisp, bright, and percussive. This characteristic provides typists with an auditory feedback that is distinct and engaging. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly switch is described as chirpy, offering a unique acoustic signature with a little squeak to them. This sets the Firefly switches apart from the more traditional clicky switches, providing a quieter typing experience that still retains a hint of clickiness. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will depend not only on the switch itself but also on the accompanying keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Box CJ switch provides an impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly, offering a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. This smoothness adds to the overall typing comfort and can lead to reduced finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the Dareu Firefly switch is described as easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a light actuation that makes typing effortless and comfortable. This gentle resistance enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel. Both switches offer characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing feel, ultimately providing a satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box CJ switch provides a clacky typing experience with a smooth push feel, catering to those who seek rapid response and effortless typing. On the other hand, the Firefly switch offers a quieter typing experience with easy-to-press actuation, providing a unique tactile feel that enhances comfort during extended typing sessions. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches present viable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you prioritize rapid response, smooth keystrokes, and a clacky sound profile, the Box CJ may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force, quiet typing experience, and easy-to-press keys, the Firefly switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to assess what matters most to you in a keyboard switch before making your choice.
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