Dareu Firefly vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Firefly and Aflion Foggy Shadow are two unique mechanical keyboard switches, both falling under the tactile category. The Firefly switch from Dareu offers a quiet typing experience with a light actuation and subtle clickiness, making it ideal for those looking for an easy-to-press and chirpy switch. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow switch from Aflion boasts a light tactile bump and a medium weight bottom-out force, providing a balanced performance for users who prefer a low-pitched and neutral typing feel. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Aflion Foggy Shadow, it is clear that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboards. Overall, the similarities in utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing of both keyboards indicate that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when using these switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Firefly features a nylon housing while the Foggy Shadow also utilizes nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two keyboards. Despite this discrepancy, both keyboards offer similar qualities in terms of sound profile, with nylon contributing to a rounder and duller sound when compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate in the top housing.
Overall, the choice of housing material in keyboards plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the switches. While both the Dareu Firefly and the Aflion Foggy Shadow use polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a clearer and resonant sound profile, the difference in bottom housing material adds a unique element to each keyboard. Whether it be the Firefly's nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound or the Foggy Shadow's nylon bottom housing for a rounder sound, users can expect a customized typing experience based on the material used in each component of the switches.
Weight
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Firefly has a bottom out force of None grams, whereas the Foggy Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that while the Firefly may be easier to trigger keystrokes with, the Foggy Shadow offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different advantages based on preference; the Firefly is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, while the Foggy Shadow is better suited for users who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. The Firefly offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more traditional depth when pressing down on keys. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and individuals looking for a faster response time. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both switches provide unique benefits, so choosing the one with the appropriate travel distance is key to achieving optimal typing comfort.
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 Aflion Foggy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Foggy Shadow for $3.91.
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
The Firefly switch from Dareu is known for its unique chirpy sound, which sets it apart from other switches with its subtle squeak. In contrast, the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various usage scenarios. When it comes to feel, the Firefly offers an easy-to-press experience with minimal force required for key presses, promoting comfortable and effortless typing while reducing finger fatigue. Unfortunately, the information on the tactile feel of the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch is not available.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly and Aflion Foggy Shadow switches offer different sound profiles, with the Firefly being chirpy and the Foggy Shadow being low-pitched and neutral. While the Firefly provides an easy-to-press feel for comfortable typing, the tactile feel of the Foggy Shadow switch remains unknown. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, both switches can offer unique benefits based on the information provided. If you enjoy a lighter actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Firefly may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a neutral sound profile, the Aflion Foggy Shadow could be a suitable option. Ultimately, trying out both switches firsthand will provide the best insight into which one best aligns with your preferences for mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Firefly tactile switch or the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, you should opt for the Firefly if you prefer a very light actuation with just a hint of clickiness in a quiet switch. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow would be your choice if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a light tactile bump that hits the sweet spot of medium weight. The Firefly provides a chirpy sound profile, while the Foggy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile suitable for various settings. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and sound characteristics to enhance your overall typing experience.
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