Bsun Pine vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the BSUN Pine and the Dareu Firefly are two distinct options to consider. The BSUN Pine switch is known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, offering a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly switch provides a light actuation with a hint of clickiness, making it a quieter alternative to traditional clicky switches. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Pine being more accented and sharp, while the Firefly is easy-to-press and chirpy. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the Dareu Firefly share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches planned to be used with RGB lighting. Both switches showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housing, providing a visually appealing and acoustically advantageous experience for users.
In contrast, when it comes to the material used for the bottom housing, the Bsun Pine and Dareu Firefly diverge. The Pine features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. On the other hand, the Firefly also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for similar sound-enhancing qualities. Both switches benefit from the distinct characteristics of nylon in their bottom housing, offering users a unique typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
Overall, the differences in the bottom housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Dareu Firefly allow for a variation in the typing experience provided by each switch. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate in their top housing, the use of nylon in the bottom housing imparts a specific sound profile unique to each switch. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings impact the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the user experience.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dareu Firefly tactile switch with 40 grams, making the Firefly the lighter option of the two. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Pine requires 65 grams while the Firefly's bottom out force is unknown. The Pine offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the Firefly may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which falls on the shorter side compared to the Dareu Firefly tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine offers a slightly shorter distance for a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Firefly provides a longer distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press feel. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preference, with the Pine being shorter and the Firefly being longer in terms of travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize speed or depth in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 BSUN Pine switch is known for a sharp tactile bump and a distinct bottom-out, resulting in a unique typing experience with clear-cut feedback and a fast action. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly switch offers a quiet typing experience with just a hint of clickiness, providing a light actuation without the traditional clicky sound signature. Both switches offer different sound profiles, catering to individual preferences depending on the level of audible feedback desired.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Pine switch is characterized by an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, offering a pronounced and responsive typing sensation with moderate to firm actuation force. The Pine switch falls under the category of accented tactile switches, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making it suitable for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a low-impact typing feel that is comfortable and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches provide different tactile experiences, appealing to users with varying preferences in terms of typing feel.
In conclusion, the BSUN Pine switch and the Dareu Firefly switch offer unique typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch provides a sharp tactile bump and distinct bottom-out, appealing to those who prefer a more direct and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Firefly switch offers a quiet typing experience with light actuation, making it ideal for users seeking a softer and gentler typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can cater to a range of typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Pine tactile switch or the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, sharp tactile bump, and quick bottom-out with clear-cut feedback, then the Pine switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light actuation force, quiet typing experience with just a hint of clickiness, and easy-to-press switches that offer gentle resistance, then the Firefly switch may be more suitable for your needs. Consider the sound profile, feel, and typing experience that align with your preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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