Dareu Firefly vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Firefly and the Durock Ice King Linear. The Dareu Firefly is a tactile switch known for its quiet operation and light actuation, providing a gentle clickiness without the classic loud sound typically associated with clicky switches. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear offers a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. While the Firefly is categorized as easy-to-press and chirpy, the Ice King Linear is described as silky, frictionless, subdued, creamy, and polished. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them appealing to different users, depending on their preferences for typing feel and sound. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and Durock Ice King Linear both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Firefly featuring a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, while the Ice King Linear uses nylon for both the top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top housing of the Firefly creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, ideal for those looking for a clearer and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Firefly and Ice King Linear use nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a different sound profile than the top housing material. Despite the different top housing materials, the presence of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent sound experience when pressing down on the keys, conveying a similar quality in the typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Dareu Firefly and Durock Ice King Linear plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile of each switch. While the Firefly's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and more resonant sound, the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a consistent and impactful bottom-out sound, providing users with a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Firefly and Ice King Linear offer users the opportunity to choose based on their preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, we can see that the Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Ice King Linear's 52 grams. However, the Ice King Linear has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Firefly's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Firefly, as its actuation force is lower. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Ice King Linear due to its higher actuation force. Both switches provide unique experiences, with the Firefly offering a lighter touch and the Ice King Linear delivering a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Firefly offers a more traditional travel distance compared to the Ice King Linear, which has a shallower travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Firefly for its slightly longer travel distance, as it provides a more substantial key press feel. On the other hand, those seeking a quicker response time may opt for the Ice King Linear due to its shorter travel distance. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preferences, with the Firefly providing a more traditional typing experience and the Ice King Linear offering a quicker response for gaming purposes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance.
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 Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 is described as having a chirpy sound, adding a unique acoustic signature to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a more subdued sound, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature when pressed. Both switches provide a different auditory experience, with the Firefly being a bit more distinct in its clickiness while the Ice King Linear offers a quieter typing experience that is less likely to be disruptive in shared spaces.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is known for its easy-to-press actuation, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience. This smoothness in key travel minimizes resistance and provides a buttery sensation with each keystroke. The Ice King Linear switch excels in providing a luxurious and effortless typing feel.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly switch provides a light actuation with a hint of clickiness and a chirpy sound, while the Ice King Linear switch offers a smooth, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience with a subdued sound profile. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Firefly being more distinct in its clickiness and the Ice King Linear offering a luxurious and smooth typing feel. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results in typing comfort and satisfaction with either of these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a quiet and light actuation with just a hint of clickiness, the Firefly switch is a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky smooth typing experience with medium bottom out force, the Ice King Linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preference for tactile feedback.
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