Dareu Firefly vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Hyacinth emerge as compelling options, each appealing to different gamer and typist preferences. The Firefly, categorized as a tactile switch, offers an easy-to-press action paired with a light, chirpy click that delivers a satisfying tactile feel without the noisy resonance typical of traditional clicky switches. This makes it an excellent choice for users who desire both responsiveness and a more subdued auditory experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth, a linear switch, is designed with a unique 3.5mm travel distance that minimizes the jarring bottoming-out sensation often associated with longer-stem switches. Its single-stage elongated spring ensures a consistent force curve, providing a silky and subtle typing experience that many find comfortable for prolonged use. While the Firefly offers a delicate balance of tactile feedback and quiet operation, the Hyacinth prioritizes smoothness and user comfort in its design. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and the KTT Hyacinth are both equipped with polycarbonate top housings, which contributes to their distinct auditory profiles and striking aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate in both switches facilitates a higher-pitched and crisper sound, resulting from the material's stiffness, which helps to create a clearer and more resonant sonic experience. This feature is particularly advantageous for users who enjoy utilizing RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant illumination through the switches. Since both switches utilize the same polycarbonate material for the top housing, users can expect a similar sound profile that emphasizes brightness and clarity, enhancing their overall typing experience.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both the Firefly and the Hyacinth is made from nylon, a material renowned for its ability to produce a warmer and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a more subdued, rounded auditory experience upon bottoming out during keystrokes. This characteristic ensures that while the top housing contributes to the sharpness of the sound, the nylon bottom housing provides a balanced, deeper resonance that enhances the overall tactile feedback. Consequently, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in these switches creates a unique contrast in sound characteristics, allowing users to enjoy the distinct auditory experience that each component offers.
Ultimately, while the Dareu Firefly and KTT Hyacinth differ in their bottom housing materials, the shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing unifies their auditory profiles to some extent. As a result, users will benefit from a sharp and clear sound when actuating the switches, alongside the fuller sound that the nylon bottom housing provides when bottoming out. By combining the advantages of both materials, these switches present a well-rounded typing experience that satisfies those who prioritize sound quality as well as aesthetic appeal, making them suitable choices for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a blend of clarity and warmth in their typing feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch to the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation forces, with the Firefly requiring 40 grams to register a keystroke, while the Hyacinth has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Firefly is better suited for users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less force to activate. However, the bottom out force for the Firefly is unknown, making it difficult to assess how it compares in terms of the substantial feel at the bottom of the keystroke. On the other hand, the Hyacinth's bottom out force is 56 grams, indicating that it offers a firmer resistance when fully depressed. Users who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience will likely gravitate towards the Hyacinth due to its heavier bottom out force, which can provide a sense of satisfaction upon key press completion. Overall, if a lighter switch is desired, the Firefly would be the better choice, whereas the Hyacinth caters to those seeking a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Firefly features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option and appealing to those who appreciate a deeper feel under their fingers. In contrast, the Hyacinth boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to users who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers. This shorter travel distance can provide a more responsive typing experience; however, some may find it feels overly abrupt compared to the more substantial feel of the Firefly. Thus, if you're looking for a key switch with a hearty depth, the Firefly is the better choice, whereas the Hyacinth serves those who prioritize speed and responsiveness.
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 KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Firefly provides a unique auditory experience with its subtly chirpy sound, characterized by a light, squeaky resonance that sets it apart from typical clicky switches. In contrast, the Hyacinth offers a more neutral sound profile, striking a balance that makes it versatile enough for use in various settings, whether at home or in an office. The quieter operation of the Hyacinth makes it less intrusive, appealing to users who prefer a more subdued auditory experience during typing.
In terms of feel, the Firefly excels with its easy-to-press mechanism that requires minimal force, contributing to a comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. The light actuation, combined with a hint of clickiness, provides enjoyable feedback without the burden of excessive resistance. Conversely, the Hyacinth delivers a silky-smooth typing experience, characterized by its gentle resistance and a single-stage elongated spring that produces a consistent force curve. This smoothness allows for effortless presses and releases, making it suitable for extended typing sessions while maintaining a subtle resistance that enhances user comfort.
Ultimately, both the Dareu Firefly and KTT Hyacinth switches cater to different preferences, showcasing distinct sound and tactile characteristics. The Firefly appeals to those who enjoy a light, unique sound with easy actuation, ideal for casual or quick typing. On the other hand, the Hyacinth stands out for its smoothness and neutrality, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a refined and comfortable typing experience in a variety of environments. While each switch has its own strengths, both can deliver satisfactory performance depending on the typing style and environment, making them appealing options for newcomers exploring the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environments in which you'll be using them. If you appreciate tactile feedback but prefer a quieter operation without the classic clicky sound, the Firefly’s light actuation and chirpy sound profile make it an excellent choice, especially for long typing sessions where comfort and ease of pressing are paramount. Its design is tailored for reduced finger fatigue, making it ideal for those who type extensively, whether for work or hobby. Conversely, if you are looking for a silky smooth typing experience with a balanced force curve, the Hyacinth is the way to go. The neutral sound profile and medium-light bottom out force may be more suitable if you expect to use your keyboard in shared spaces or office environments where noise can be a concern. Additionally, the Hyacinth’s innovative design minimizes the hard bottoming-out experience, providing a consistent and comfortable feel, which can cater to both novice and advanced users alike. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize that gentle tactile feedback of the Firefly or the smooth, consistent experience offered by the Hyacinth.
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