Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Dareu Firefly are two great options to consider. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that offers a crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, making it perfect for those who enjoy clicky switches but prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly is a tactile switch that provides a very light actuation with just a hint of clickiness, giving it a unique feel compared to traditional clicky switches. While the Box Mute Jade is known for its accentuated feel and stiffness, the Firefly is praised for being easy to press and having a chirpy sound. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two. 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
75g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Dareu Firefly are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Box Mute Jade and the Dareu Firefly brings a different quality to each switch. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which may appeal to those looking for a more muted typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a balance of qualities when typing on these switches, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while the polycarbonate top housing of both switches provides a similar sound profile, the nylon bottom housing offers a distinct difference between the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Dareu Firefly. The choice between a sharper and crisper sound with polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound with nylon ultimately comes down to personal preference and the typing experience one is looking for. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a high-quality typing experience with their combination of housing materials.
Weight
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is heavier in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Dareu Firefly tactile switch. The Box Mute Jade requires a 75-gram actuation force and an 82-gram bottom out force, while the Firefly only needs a 40-gram actuation force, with an unknown bottom out force. The Box Mute Jade provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Firefly's lighter actuation force may be preferred by individuals who enjoy typing for extended periods or engaging in long gaming sessions. Overall, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and desired force requirements.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Box Mute Jade offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Firefly. Generally, a shorter travel distance can provide faster response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can offer a more substantial key press feel, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages, so the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and typing style. Overall, while the travel distances of the two switches differ slightly, both can provide satisfactory results depending on individual needs.
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 Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50 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 Box Mute Jade switch offers a crunchy and subdued clicky sound, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly switch provides a chirpy sound with a hint of clickiness, giving it a unique acoustic signature. Depending on your preference for sound, the Box Mute Jade provides a more traditional clicky experience while the Firefly offers a quieter and less pronounced sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is accentuated with a medium level of tactile feedback, offering a balance between tactile response and smooth key presses. Additionally, it is described as stiff, requiring a higher actuation force compared to other switches, and polished for a refined typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Firefly switch is easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance during key presses for a light and effortless typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a more noticeable tactile bump and higher actuation force, the Box Mute Jade might be the better option. However, if you prefer a lighter and more responsive typing feel, the Firefly switch could be the right choice for you.
Taking all available information into consideration, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Dareu Firefly switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a classic clicky sound with a medium level of tactile feedback, while the Firefly offers a quieter typing experience with easy-to-press key presses. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience tailored to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and it comes down to personal preference in selecting the one that best suits your typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier actuation force and a classic clicky sound with a more subdued profile, the Box Mute Jade may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a quieter, more modern take on clicky switches, the Dareu Firefly could be a great fit. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal preferences in terms of feel and sound. Happy typing!
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