TTC Brother vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch are both unique mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct advantages for different types of users. The Brother is praised for its lightweight nature and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, making it a top favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Firefly offers a quieter typing experience with a light actuation and subtle clickiness, providing a different appeal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. These differences make each switch suitable for 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
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Brother and the Dareu Firefly both feature polycarbonate top housings, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is particularly useful for switches with RGB lighting as its translucency enhances the visual appeal. Similarly, both keyboards have nylon bottom housings, which produce a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This split between the top and bottom housings allows users to experience different qualities depending on whether they are pressing down on a key or releasing it.
While the Brother and the Dareu Firefly share similar top housing materials in polycarbonate, they differ in their bottom housing materials with the Brother using nylon and the Firefly also utilizing nylon. Both keyboards elicit deeper and fuller sound profiles due to the nylon bottom housing's ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Despite the difference in bottom housing materials, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel when using either keyboard.
In terms of the overall sound profiles of the Brother and Dareu Firefly, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both keyboards results in a well-rounded and versatile typing experience. The sharp, high-pitched sound from the polycarbonate top housing is complemented by the deeper and fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing, creating a balanced mix of crispness and depth. This combination ensures that users can enjoy a pleasant typing experience with a mix of sharpness and richness in the sound produced by each keystroke on either keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, there are a few differences to note. The Brother switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, compared to the Firefly switch which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Brother switch, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Firefly switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer their own unique characteristics when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Firefly has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Brother. Generally, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying key press for some users, as it allows for a deeper and more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, a shorter travel distance can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Firefly being on the longer end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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 TTC Brother clicky switch offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that is synonymous with classic clicky switches, making each key press a delight for enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch provides a more subtle chirpy sound that sets it apart from traditional clicky switches, offering a unique acoustic experience. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, appealing to different preferences in terms of keyboard sound.
When it comes to feel, both the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch are characterized as easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance during key presses for a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Brother switch is known for its stepped tactile bump, offering a mild two-stage keystroke sensation that balances tactility with smoothness. While specific details on the feel of the Firefly switch are not provided, the shared description of easy-to-press implies a similar typing experience in terms of responsiveness and low-impact feel.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch present contrasting sound profiles while sharing a similar easy-to-press typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for keyboard sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on whether one prefers a classic crunchy clicky sound or a more subdued chirpy sound, while enjoying the consistent easy-to-press actuation for a comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for the level of tactile feedback and sound signature you desire in your mechanical keyboard. If you enjoy a satisfyingly crunchy sound and a well-balanced tactile bump, the Brother switch is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter, more subtle click with a light actuation, the Firefly switch is the way to go. Consider the typing experience you want to achieve and select the switch that aligns best with your preferences. Whether you prioritize audible feedback or a more subdued typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision rests on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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