Dareu Firefly vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the distinction between tactile and linear options can significantly influence your typing experience. The Dareu Firefly switch is a unique tactile switch that diverges from traditional clicky designs. It offers a quiet typing experience with a light actuation and a subtle hint of clickiness, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate tactile feedback without overwhelming noise—ideal for office environments or shared spaces. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch tailored for delicate typists. Known for its incredibly light actuation force of just 38g, this switch delivers smooth and effortless keystrokes, providing a pleasurable typing experience while also enhancing RGB illumination with its frosted light diffuser. While the Firefly may suit users seeking a subdued tactile feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White caters to those who favor a seamless and quiet typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Dareu Firefly Tactile

Gateron G Pro 3.0 White Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

$3.40

$3.27 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to their sound profiles and aesthetic appeal. The polycarbonate material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer composition. This results in a more resonant acoustic experience that emphasizes clarity in sound, making both switches highly suitable for users seeking an illuminated setup with RGB lighting. Since the top housing is clear or translucent, it plays a crucial role in enhancing visual effects as the light passes through, allowing typists and gamers alike to appreciate both the auditory and visual feedback of these switches.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the Firefly and G Pro 3.0 White are made from nylon, which yields a distinctly different sonic quality. Nylon is a classic material in the keyboard switch landscape, appreciated for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller, rounder acoustic experience, particularly during key presses. As such, when users type on these switches, the nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to how the sound feels and resonates, providing a contrast to the sharper tones of the polycarbonate top.

Ultimately, while both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom, the combination of these materials produces a nuanced sound experience. With the clear polycarbonate enhancing the brightness of the output sound and the nylon base softening it and enriching the sensory feel, users can expect a cohesive auditory experience from both. Even though the composition is identical in terms of material types, the differing effects each material contributes to the acoustic profile of the switches makes them both unique in performance. Thus, when comparing typing on the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White, one can expect a harmonious blend of sharp and deep sounds that reflect the attributes of their housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, there are some interesting differences to note regarding their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Firefly features an actuation force of 40 grams, making it slightly heavier than the G Pro 3.0 White, which has an actuation force of 38 grams. This indicates that the Firefly may provide a more substantial typing experience that some users prefer for better feedback. However, the bottom out force of the Firefly is unknown, while the G Pro 3.0 White has a clearly defined bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered light. This means that the G Pro 3.0 White not only requires less effort to actuate but also has a noticeable difference when bottoming out, leading to a softer feel overall compared to the potentially firmer Firefly. Ultimately, for users who favor a lighter switch, the G Pro 3.0 White could be the better choice, while those seeking a more robust typing experience might lean towards the Firefly, despite the lack of information regarding its bottoming out characteristics.

Travel distance

Both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect a comparable keypress feel and response when using either switch. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, allowing users to feel confident in their choice regardless of which switch they opt for.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a distinctive chirpy quality that lends a unique acoustic character to each keystroke. This chirp provides a gentle auditory feedback that sets it apart from more traditional clicky switches, making it a quieter option without sacrificing engagement during typing. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a more varied auditory experience, characterized by its clacky sound when pressed, which is sharp, bright, and percussive. It also possesses a neutral sound profile that can accommodate different environments, and its subdued quality allows for a moderate sound signature that doesn't disturb others nearby. Ultimately, while both switches contribute to an enjoyable sound experience, their tonal characteristics cater to different preferences.

In terms of feel, both switches excel with their easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to actuate. The Firefly is designed to deliver a comfortable typing experience with gentle resistance, making it ideal for long typing sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue. Meanwhile, the G Pro 3.0 White elevates the sense of touch with its creamy and silky texture, resulting in a smooth and buttery typing experience. It also presents a feathery quality that contributes to a lightness under the fingers, allowing for extended use without discomfort. While the Firefly focuses on a straightforward responsiveness, the G Pro 3.0 White offers a rich sensation that further enhances its appeal.

In conclusion, both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch provide exceptional experiences, catering to those who seek different attributes. The Firefly is favored for its chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, while the G Pro 3.0 White stands out with its crisp auditory feedback and luxurious smoothness. Ultimately, if you are seeking a quieter but engaging experience, the Firefly is a remarkable choice. If smoothness and a more pronounced clacky sound are your preference, then the G Pro 3.0 White is likely to satisfy. Choosing between these two will depend on personal taste, but both deliver comfort during extensive use, ensuring satisfaction whether you’re typing or gaming.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and needs. If you favor a quieter yet responsive typing experience, the Firefly may be your best bet. Its light actuation with a hint of clickiness makes it particularly suitable for extended typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue, and its unique chirpy sound profile adds an intriguing character without overwhelming noise—ideal for shared workspaces or quiet environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional clacky sound and a sweeter auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 White is a solid choice. It offers an even lighter actuation force, making it exceptionally easy to press and suitable for those who value a smooth and creamy typing feel. This might be particularly beneficial for gamers or typists who appreciate a snappier key response and more pronounced sound feedback. In the end, consider factors like your typing style, whether you prioritize sound or feel, and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Firefly Tactile

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

Learn more

Gateron G Pro 3.0 White Linear

$3.40

$3.27 per 10

Learn more