Dareu Firefly vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Ink Box Pink. The Dareu Firefly is a tactile switch that offers a quiet typing experience with a light actuation and subtle clickiness, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentle typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink is a linear switch known for its smoothness and lighter touch, accompanied by a higher-pitched clack sound. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a silky and polished 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Ink Box Pink, it is evident that the Firefly utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, providing a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound with a satisfying "clacky" feel. While both materials produce high-pitched sound profiles, the Firefly's polycarbonate is known for its clear and resonant sound, while the INK blend in the Ink Box Pink creates a slightly softer and more satisfying typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Firefly employs nylon which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound of polycarbonate. Conversely, the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend bottom housing mirrors the characteristics of its top housing, offering a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. While both materials result in a satisfying typing experience, the nylon in the Firefly provides a different tactile feel compared to the INK blend used in the Ink Box Pink.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Ink Box Pink contribute to unique sound profiles and tactile experiences for users. While both switches utilize high-pitched sound profiles in their construction, the specific properties of polycarbonate and nylon in the Firefly and the INK blend in the Ink Box Pink, respectively, offer distinct typing experiences. Whether it's the sharper and crisper sound of the Firefly or the clacky and pointed sound of the Ink Box Pink, users can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Box Pink is the heavier option with an actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Firefly's 40 grams. However, it is important to note that the bottom out force of the Firefly is unknown, while the Ink Box Pink has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Ink Box Pink requires a stronger push for both actuation and bottoming out compared to the Firefly. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Firefly may be the better choice, as it allows for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer unique qualities, and while the actuation forces differ, users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Firefly has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ink Box Pink. The Firefly's 4.0 mm travel distance is more traditional and may provide a more substantial keypress feel, whereas the Ink Box Pink's 3.6 mm travel distance is slightly shorter and may offer faster response times, which is preferred by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing or gaming styles, so it is essential to consider what feels most comfortable and responsive for you.
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 Gateron Ink Box Pink has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Pink for $7.65.
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, providing a slight squeak that sets it apart from traditional clicky switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, giving a sharp and percussive auditory feedback. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference, with the Firefly being quieter and more subtle, while the Ink Box Pink offers a crisper and brighter sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch provides a silky and polished typing experience, with exceptional smoothness and reduced friction during key presses. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Firefly focusing on effortless typing and the Ink Box Pink prioritizing smoothness and refinement.
Considering all the information available, the Dareu Firefly switch and Gateron Ink Box Pink switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a quieter switch with a light actuation and some clickiness, the Firefly would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a crisper sound and exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Ink Box Pink would be more fitting. Ultimately, the decision between these switches would come down to personal preference in sound and feel, but rest assured that both offer quality performance in their respective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a quiet and easy-to-press switch with a hint of clickiness, the Firefly may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, light typing feel with a high-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink could be more to your liking. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you value most. Make sure to test out both switches if possible to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Mentioned in this article
