Dareu Firefly vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Firefly and the TTC Flame Red. The Firefly is a tactile switch known for its quiet and light actuation, making it easy to press with just a hint of clickiness, categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Chirpy'. On the other hand, the Flame Red is a linear switch loved for its dazzling light diffuser, making it perfect for those who enjoy backlit, RGB keyboards. Typing on the Flame Reds provides a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
54g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and TTC Flame Red both feature different housing materials, with the Firefly utilizing a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, while the Flame Red incorporates a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Firefly creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Flame Red produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softness that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing material, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound texture and resonance.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Firefly and Flame Red feature nylon material, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounder sound when pressing down on the switches. This commonality in housing material between the two switches suggests that the keypress experience may be more similar in terms of sound and feel when engaging with the bottom housing of each switch. However, the top housing material differences between the Firefly and Flame Red will still play a significant role in the overall sound profile and experience of the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dareu Firefly offers a sharper and clearer sound, while the nylon top housing of the TTC Flame Red provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys. By understanding the characteristics of different housing materials, keyboard enthusiasts can choose switches that align with their preferences for sound texture, resonance, and overall typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, the Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Flame Red's 45 grams. However, the Firefly does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams, which is considered medium-light. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may opt for the Firefly for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Flame Red for its slightly heavier actuation force. Overall, individuals seeking a lighter typing feel may find the Firefly more appealing, while those desiring a bit more resistance might gravitate towards the Flame Red for a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of keypress feel and actuation depth between the two switches.
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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 Dareu Firefly switch offers a chirpy and unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches, providing a light actuation with just a hint of clickiness. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red switch is described as neutral, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. The sound of both switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a typing experience that is effortless, comfortable, and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth and refined key travel due to factory lubing or quality materials. The feel of both switches falls within a comfortable and approachable range for most users.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly and TTC Flame Red switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly provides a unique chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, while the Flame Red offers a neutral sound and a mild, polished typing experience. When choosing between the two, consider your preference for sound profiles, actuation force, and typing feel to determine which switch would best suit your typing style and preferences. Both switches offer quality in their own right, and you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a very light actuation with a hint of clickiness and a quiet typing experience, the Firefly switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you value a weighty smoothness, a clacky sound profile, and a visually appealing light diffuser for your backlit RGB keyboard, the Flame Red switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and visual aesthetics.
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