Dareu Firefly vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, one might consider the Dareu Firefly, a tactile option, or the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U, a linear alternative. The Firefly switch stands out for its quiet and light actuation with a hint of clickiness, providing an easy-to-press experience that is categorized as 'Chirpy'. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U offers a fuller travel distance reminiscent of traditional typing experiences, enhanced with a bouncy 22mm spring and crafted from nylon for a softer, bassier sound signature. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Subdued', the V2Us blend the old with the new. 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This material is also ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, when it comes to their nylon bottom housing, the Firefly and the Hyacinth V2U offer a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, their nylon bottom housing sets them apart in sound profile. The Firefly's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U's nylon bottom housing offers similar sound characteristics but may vary in terms of feel when typing on the switch. This difference in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience for users of each switch.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both utilize polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, their nylon bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound and feel, with the Firefly offering a deeper and fuller tone and the Hyacinth V2U providing a similar sound profile with potential variations in typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, it is evident that the Firefly is lighter in terms of actuation force at 40 grams, while the Hyacinth V2U requires a slightly heavier 45 grams to actuate. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth V2U is heavier at 52 grams, while the bottom out force of the Firefly is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Firefly for a more effortless typing experience, while those looking for a stronger push feel may opt for the Hyacinth V2U. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the realm of traditional travel distances, with the Firefly being slightly longer than the Hyacinth V2U. Gamers may appreciate the quicker response time offered by the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2U, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Firefly with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and individual typing style.
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 HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U for $2.91.
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 switch offers a unique chirpy sound, adding a subtle yet distinct character to each keypress. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound profile, thanks to its nylon construction and unique spring design. Depending on personal preference and the setup of your keyboard, the Firefly will deliver a more lively and distinct auditory experience, while the Hyacinth V2U will provide a softer and bassier sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a low-impact typing experience. This results in reduced finger fatigue during extended typing sessions and overall enhances the typing experience with its responsiveness. Conversely, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switch is described as polished and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, but the Firefly focuses on light actuation force, while the Hyacinth V2U emphasizes smoothness and refinement.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly provides a chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, catering to those who prefer a light and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2U offers a more neutral and subdued sound with a polished and silky feel, catering to individuals who value smoothness and refinement in their typing. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer quality performance, and regardless of which one you choose, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a quiet switch with a light actuation force and a hint of clickiness, the Firefly switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a fuller travel distance, a bouncier feel, and a softer, bassier sound signature, the Hyacinth V2U switch may be more suited to your preferences. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, the Firefly would be a good fit. Conversely, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a polished, silky typing experience, the Hyacinth V2U switch would be a better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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