Dareu Firefly vs. Jwick Ginger Milk
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Firefly and the Jwick Ginger Milk. The Dareu Firefly is a tactile switch that offers a unique take on clicky switches, providing a quiet typing experience with a light actuation and just a hint of clickiness. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk is a linear switch known for its soft and pastel design, offering a silky smooth typing experience with a muted, snappy sound profile. If you prefer easy-to-press switches with a chirpy feel, the Firefly may be the right choice for you. However, if you're looking for a neutral and buttery typing experience, the Ginger Milk switch could be the better option. To truly determine the best switch for your needs, let's explore these options further.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and Jwick Ginger Milk both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aspect to the overall design of the keyboard. While both switches share this feature, they may offer slight variations in sound based on other components.
On the other hand, the Firefly utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may be preferred by some users. Similarly, the Ginger Milk also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a focus on enhancing the tactile feedback and overall sound produced by the switch. This shared characteristic between the two switches showcases a classic switch housing material that is popular among keyboard enthusiasts for its unique sound signature.
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and Jwick Ginger Milk, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings may play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom components, influencing both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the switch's performance can help users make informed decisions when selecting a keyboard switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch with 50 grams. This means that the Firefly may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for a smoother typing experience. However, the Ginger Milk has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Firefly's unknown bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches have their own advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Firefly being lighter and the Ginger Milk being heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Firefly offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Ginger Milk provides a slightly shallower key press. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Ginger Milk with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Firefly. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance and will provide a satisfying typing experience.
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 Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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 has a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches, offering a light and distinctive auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch provides a neutral sound profile that is moderate and suitable for various settings, making it a versatile option for both beginners and experienced typists. The sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Firefly switch boasts an easy-to-press design, requiring minimal force for actuation and providing a comfortable typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the Jwick Ginger Milk switch offers a buttery feel that is smooth, fluid, and consistent, delivering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Both switches prioritize comfort and efficiency in typing, catering to users who value tactile feedback and ease of use.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly switch stands out for its chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, catering to users who enjoy a light and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switch impresses with its neutral sound profile and buttery feel, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation that enhances overall comfort. Whether you prefer a light clickiness or a muted, snappy sound, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that is sure to meet your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, you should choose the Firefly if you prefer a very light actuation force with a hint of clickiness and a quiet typing experience. The Firefly is ideal for those who value a gentle resistance during key presses and a low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, you should opt for the Ginger Milk if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, fluid keystroke experience. The Ginger Milk is perfect for those who enjoy a muted, snappy sound profile and a buttery typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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