Dareu Firefly vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a tactile typing experience that is sure to enhance your overall typing experience. The Firefly switch is unique in its quiet operation, providing a light actuation with a subtle hint of clickiness, making it perfect for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a gentle bump that enhances typing flow, along with a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. Additionally, the G Pro Brown features a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting effects. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Standard
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the material's stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, despite their similarities in the top housing material, the Firefly stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown's nylon bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback of the switches.
The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon's softness helps to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound feedback. While both switches share this quality in their bottom housing material, the Firefly's choice to pair it with a polycarbonate top housing may create a more balanced sound experience, with the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key and the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown creates unique sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches benefit from the stiffness of polycarbonate in the top housing for a sharp sound, the Firefly's additional use of nylon in the bottom housing adds depth and richness to the typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's consistent use of nylon in both top and bottom housings may result in a more consistent sound profile throughout typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound feedback and typing feel.
Weight
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it heavier. However, the bottom out force of the Firefly is unknown, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is considered medium. The lighter actuation force of the Firefly may be more favorable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Brown may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, it is clear that both switches offer the same tactile feedback and keypress experience as they both have the same distance from top to bottom. This means that whether you choose the Firefly or the G Pro 3.0 Brown, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance and keypress feel. Overall, both switches provide a consistent typing experience with a travel distance of 4 mm, making them suitable options for those looking for a tactile switch with a medium keypress distance.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Brown for $2.77.
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 Dareu Firefly switch offers a unique chirpy sound with a hint of clickiness, setting it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch provides a medium-high pitch with a satisfying auditory feedback that adds joy to typing sessions. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience.
When it comes to feel, both the Firefly and G Pro 3.0 Brown switches are described as easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is noted for its mild and stepped tactile sensation, providing a gentle bump without overpowering the typing flow. These qualities make both switches approachable to most users, with a comfortable and responsive typing feel.
Overall, while the Dareu Firefly and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches offer different sound profiles, they both provide a comfortable and easy-to-press typing experience ideal for long typing sessions. Whether you prefer the chirpy sound of the Firefly or the medium-high pitch of the G Pro 3.0 Brown, both switches are crafted to enhance your typing flow and enjoyment. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a quiet and light actuation switch that provides a hint of clickiness, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more medium bottom out force switch with a gentle bump that won't overpower your typing flow, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your preference in terms of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel will determine which switch suits your needs best. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so consider these factors carefully before making your decision.
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