Dareu Firefly vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Dareu Firefly and the TTC Gold Brown Pro mechanical keyboard switches, we can see that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Firefly switch is known for its quiet operation and light actuation with a hint of clickiness, making it a great choice for those who prefer easy-to-press keys that provide a subtle chirpy feedback. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro switch from TTC offers a more subdued and nuanced tactile bump that allows typists to stay focused on their tasks without being distracted by loud clicking noises. This switch is perfect for those who value a polished, low-pitched, and subtle 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to use RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar sound profile and aesthetic when it comes to the top housing material.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, the Firefly uses a nylon bottom housing while the Gold Brown Pro also incorporates nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is softer than other plastics, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the nylon bottom housing material.
When comparing the two switches, it is important to note that the housing materials can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience. While both switches have similarities in their top and bottom housing materials, the distribution of these materials can influence the sound profile and feel of typing on the switches. The bottom housing material will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key. Overall, the choice between the Dareu Firefly and TTC Gold Brown Pro switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the specific qualities each housing material brings to the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, the main difference lies in their actuation forces. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gold Brown Pro's 45 grams. This means that the Firefly may feel more responsive and easier to activate with a lighter touch. However, both switches have unknown bottom out forces, making it difficult to determine how they compare in terms of how it feels when fully pressed. In terms of weight, the Firefly would be considered lighter due to its lower actuation force, which may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro would offer a slightly heavier feel, which may appeal to users seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Firefly offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. This may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for quick inputs. Both switches fall within the traditional travel distance range, offering a balance between depth and speed. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance in a tactile switch.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 switch is described as having a chirpy quality, providing a unique acoustic signature with a hint of clickiness. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is known for its thocky, low-pitched sound profile that offers a deep, rich tone with a subtle presence. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a gentle clickiness, the Firefly switch may be more to your liking. However, for those who enjoy a more subdued and deep sound accompanied by a gentle tactile bump, the Gold Brown Pro switch would be a great choice.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering minimal resistance during key presses for a light and effortless typing experience. Conversely, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is described as polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped, providing a nuanced and smooth typing feel with a gentle tactile bump. If you prefer a switch with a light actuation force and minimal finger fatigue, the Firefly switch would be a comfortable option. However, if you value a refined and smooth typing experience with a subtle tactile feedback, the Gold Brown Pro switch would suit your preferences better.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly switch provides a chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, while the Gold Brown Pro switch offers a thocky, low-pitched sound and a polished, silky feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference for sound profile and typing experience. Both switches provide a unique and satisfying feel, ensuring that you'll enjoy a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a very light actuation with just a hint of clickiness and a quiet typing experience, the Firefly would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle, nuanced feedback with a gentle tactile bump and a subdued sound profile that allows you to immerse in your tasks without distraction, the Gold Brown Pro would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a more clicky and light typing experience with the Firefly or a subtle and understated tactile experience with the Gold Brown Pro.
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