Dareu Firefly vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow offer unique characteristics for different preferences. The Dareu Firefly is a tactile switch that provides an easy-to-press actuation with a subtle hint of clickiness, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a linear switch known for its budget-friendly excellence, offering a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel. While the Firefly is described as 'chirpy', the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is characterized as 'polished', 'high-pitched', 'creamy', and 'resonant'. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize the aesthetic of their keyboard. Despite the similarities in top housing material, the differences in other parts of the switches may lead to variations in overall sound and feel.
On the other hand, the Firefly and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Firefly using nylon and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow also opting for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics, as it absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound. By utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, both switches offer a unique typing experience that is characterized by a softer and more muted sound compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings.
Overall, while both the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials may result in variations in sound and feel. The Firefly's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's nylon bottom housing offers a similar typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the heavier option in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams but lacks information on the bottom out force. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Depending on personal preference, some may opt for the lighter actuation force of the Firefly for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier push of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for a more solid typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to individual typing style and preference.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of how far the keys travel from the top to the bottom when pressed. Users can expect consistent feedback and actuation with both switches. Overall, the travel distance of these two switches is the same, providing a familiar feel and performance for users no matter which switch they choose.
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 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 tactile switch offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other clicky switches. This light and squeaky sound profile provides a quiet typing experience without the classic clicky resonance. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch produces a high-pitched and resonant clacky sound when pressed. This sound profile can be crisp and sharp, offering a different auditory experience compared to the Firefly switch. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is known for its easy-to-press actuation, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Overall, these switches provide a low-impact and responsive typing feel. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The smooth key travel and reduced friction of these switches make typing feel like gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly is quieter with a hint of clickiness and easy-to-press actuation, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a higher-pitched clacky sound and polished, creamy feel. Both switches provide unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference in sound and typing feel. However, if a user enjoys a quieter typing experience with easier key presses, the Firefly may be the better option, while those who prefer a more tactile and clacky sound with a smooth typing feel may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you value a quiet typing experience with a hint of clickiness and very light actuation, the Firefly switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a budget-friendly option with a medium-heavy bottom out force, higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, as well as a smooth and refined typing feel, then the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch would suit your needs better. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual typing preferences and priorities.
Mentioned in this article
