Gateron CJ vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two options that often come up are the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch. The Gateron CJ is praised for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, offering a smooth push feel with higher-pitched clacks. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly stands out for its quiet and light actuation, providing just a hint of clickiness without the classic clicky sound. While the CJ is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the Firefly is labeled as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Chirpy'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, catering to 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
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Dareu Firefly, it is evident that they have distinct characteristics. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a clacky and satisfying thin sound profile, while the Firefly's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. This demonstrates how Gateron's INK blend focuses on a high-pitched sound, whereas the Firefly's polycarbonate housing emphasizes a clearer and resonant sound. Both switches utilize different materials to achieve unique sound profiles, catering to different preferences for keyboard enthusiasts.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the differences between the CJ's POM bottom housing and the Firefly's nylon bottom housing become apparent. The POM bottom housing of the CJ produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a contrasting experience to the nylon bottom housing of the Firefly, which elicits a fuller and rounder sound. This shows how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound profile of a switch. Each material brings its own set of qualities to the table, providing users with options to tailor their typing experience to their liking.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron CJ and the Dareu Firefly, one can still expect similar results in terms of sound quality due to the unique properties each material possesses. The clarity and sharpness of the polycarbonate top housing in the Firefly may resonate differently compared to the pointed and relatively high-pitched sound of the INK blend top housing in the CJ. Similarly, the deeper and fuller sound generated by the nylon bottom housing in the Firefly contrasts with the more muted sound produced by the POM bottom housing in the CJ. Whether it's the top or bottom housing, both switches utilize their chosen materials effectively to provide users with a diverse range of sound profiles to cater to various preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, it is clear that the CJ is on the heavier side while the Firefly is lighter. The CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance for users. In contrast, the Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the bottom out force for the Firefly is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Firefly would be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the CJ would be more suitable for users who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is the same, with both switches featuring a 4 mm travel distance. When comparing the two, it is evident that both switches offer a consistent and uniform key press experience in terms of travel distance. Users who prefer a more linear switch like the Gateron CJ may appreciate the consistent feel from top to bottom, while those who prefer a tactile feedback may lean towards the Dareu Firefly. Overall, both switches offer a similar travel distance, providing users with a familiar typing experience regardless of their preference for linear or tactile switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron 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 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 CJ linear switch is noted for its chirpy and neutral qualities, providing a unique acoustic experience that sets it apart from other linear switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is also described as chirpy, but with a quiet and light actuation that lacks the classic clicky sound associated with tactile switches. Both switches offer a distinct sound profile that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the CJ providing a higher-pitched clack and the Firefly offering a gentle clickiness.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch is characterized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone for most users. This mild feel can make typing on the CJ switches approachable and comfortable for a wide range of individuals. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is described as easy-to-press, providing minimal resistance during key presses and allowing for effortless typing. The light actuation force of the Firefly switches can enhance the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a responsive, low-impact feel.
Overall, both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ switch provides a chirpy and neutral sound with a smooth push feel, while the Firefly switch offers a quiet and light actuation with a hint of clickiness. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, both switches can provide an enjoyable and satisfying experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference and how each switch aligns with your typing style and needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a smooth push feel with higher-pitched clacks, the CJ linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet and light actuation with just a hint of clickiness, the Firefly tactile switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you find most enjoyable and comfortable.
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