Dareu Firefly vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and TTC Gold Red offer unique experiences for users. The Firefly, a tactile switch, boasts a light actuation and quiet typing experience with just a hint of clickiness, making it ideal for those who prefer easy-to-press switches. On the other hand, the Gold Red, a linear switch, provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a subtle snappy sound profile, appealing to users looking for a polished and neutral 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and TTC Gold Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Both switches offer similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits with their polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Firefly and Gold Red utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings generates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder bottom housings. The use of nylon in both switches emphasizes the importance of the bottom housing in influencing the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Firefly and Gold Red differ in material, they both play crucial roles in shaping the overall typing experience. The qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switches, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, showcasing the importance of choosing the right housing materials for optimal sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch with the TTC Gold Red linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force vary between the two. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Gold Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Gold Red is 50 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Firefly, whose bottom out force is unknown. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Firefly for more extended typing sessions, while others might appreciate the heavier push feel of the Gold Red for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance suggests that both switches can provide a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the keys move when pressed. Whether you choose the Dareu Firefly or the TTC Gold Red, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance. Both switches offer a reliable typing experience with a 4 mm travel distance, making them suitable choices for individuals looking for a consistent feel in their mechanical keyboard switches.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 tactile switch offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from traditional clicky switches, giving it a distinct acoustic signature. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch provides a thocky sound profile that is deep, rich, and satisfying, with a low-pitched tone that adds a touch of personality without being too overpowering. Both switches offer different sound experiences, with the Firefly being more on the quieter and light clicky side, while the Gold Red provides a more moderate and neutral sound suitable for various preferences.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the TTC Gold Red linear switch provides a mild and silky typing experience that is approachable for most users. The subtle and polished feel of the Gold Red switch ensures smooth key travel and minimal resistance, enhancing the overall typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback and typing experiences, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly provides a quieter and light clicky sound along with an easy-to-press typing experience, while the Gold Red offers a thocky sound profile with a mild and silky feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches can provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Whether you prefer a unique chirpy sound with light actuation or a deep thocky sound with a smooth typing feel, these switches offer varied options to enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a keyboard switch that provides a light actuation force and a smooth typing experience, the TTC Gold Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, it offers a buttery smooth typing experience without being too loud or ostentatious. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force with just a hint of clickiness and a quiet typing experience, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for a linear or tactile switch, as well as your preference for a specific typing sound and feel.
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