Dareu Firefly vs. HMX Jelly
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the HMX Jelly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and HMX Jelly present two distinct yet popular options catering to different preferences. The Firefly is a tactile switch that offers a unique experience with its quiet operation and a subtle click, making it an attractive choice for those who want feedback without the loud and traditional clicky sounds often associated with such switches. Ideal for both typing and gaming, it provides an 'easy-to-press' feel that can enhance productivity while minimizing noise. On the other hand, the HMX Jelly is a linear switch that boasts a smooth typing experience, characterized by its low-pitched and deep, thocky sound. With a lightweight actuation force of just 42g, it is perfect for users who favor seamless key presses, making it great for rapid gaming sequences and extended typing sessions. While both switches have their unique strengths, they appeal to different needs—whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a silky smooth stroke. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and HMX Jelly switches utilize different materials for their top housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles when typing. The Firefly features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic stems from polycarbonate's rigidity, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the keystrokes. In contrast, the Jelly employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. The absorption qualities of nylon contribute to a rounder sonic experience, emphasizing the subdued nuances of typing as compared to the more pronounced notes produced by the polycarbonate. Essentially, the Firefly's polycarbonate top allows for a pronounced RGB lighting performance, while the Jelly's nylon offers a warm and cohesive tonal experience.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Firefly and Jelly utilize nylon, creating a consistent element in their sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing in both switches reinforces the deeper, fuller responses that typists often appreciate, as it absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. Consequently, regardless of the differences introduced by the top housing materials, both switches will deliver a similar foundational sound profile rooted in this shared nylon construction. This commonality implies that while the tops may define the character of the sound—sharp versus deep—the bottoms will harmonize their overall acoustic signature, leading to a satisfying typing experience.
In summary, the Dareu Firefly and HMX Jelly switches exhibit both contrasting and complementary acoustic characteristics depending on the materials used in their housings. The Firefly's polycarbonate top produces a bright sound, while the Jelly's nylon top yields a warmer tone. However, the shared nylon bottom in both switches acts as a stabilizing force, allowing them to deliver a consistent depth and fullness to the typing experience. Therefore, regardless of the differences in top housing materials, typists can expect a rich and satisfying feel when bottoming out the keys, showcasing how both design choices can coexist to create a well-rounded switch experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, there are notable differences. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, which may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially beneficial for long work hours or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Jelly switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams, which might provide a firmer push feel appreciated by users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. While the Jelly has a defined bottom out force of 48 grams, the bottom out force of the Firefly is unknown, making direct comparisons on that aspect difficult. Overall, if you value a lighter feel, the Firefly is the better choice, whereas those seeking more resistance might lean towards the Jelly switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, the Firefly stands out with a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jelly offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference may seem small, but it can significantly impact how the switches feel during use. The Firefly's longer travel distance provides a more traditional feel, which some users may appreciate for its depth and feedback, making it ideal for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. In contrast, the Jelly's travel distance caters to a more modern preference among gamers and fast typists, who benefit from the quicker response times that shorter travel distances provide. Therefore, if you're seeking a switch that allows for a more swift and responsive action, the HMX Jelly linear switch may be the better choice, while the Dareu Firefly is suited for those who value a more pronounced tactile sensation.
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 Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
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 it comes to sound, the Dareu Firefly switch presents a distinct quality characterized by its chirpy tone. This unique acoustic signature affords it a subtle squeak, setting it apart from traditional clicky switches, which can often be more jarring. The Firefly's quiet nature allows it to blend into a variety of environments without being intrusive. Meanwhile, the HMX Jelly switch is known for its low-pitched, thocky sound, which gives a satisfying depth to each keystroke. While the Jelly's sound signature is marked by a smooth and resonant quality, it diverges significantly from the chirpy sound of the Firefly, making both switches appealing for different auditory preferences. However, it's important to note that the overall sound experience can be influenced by the keyboard's build and the type of keycaps chosen, meaning both switches could potentially harmonize in various setups.
In terms of feel, the Firefly is designed to provide a very easy-to-press experience. With a light actuation force, it offers minimal resistance, allowing users to type comfortably and efficiently without experiencing finger fatigue, even during prolonged sessions. This smooth operation contributes to a responsive typing feel that many find enjoyable. In contrast, the HMX Jelly switch is also mentioned to be quite smooth due to its excellent factory lubrication, which aids in a seamless keypress experience, although detailed descriptions of the actuation force or specific tactile feedback are not provided. Thus, while both switches could offer a satisfying typing sensation, the Firefly proactively emphasizes ease of actuation, while the Jelly is positioned as a more straightforward linear option.
In summary, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch both serve unique purposes within the mechanical keyboard landscape. The Firefly's chirpy sound and impressive ease of pressing cater to users looking for a quieter yet engaging experience. Conversely, the Jelly's low-pitched thocky sound delivers a different auditory pleasure alongside its smooth action, although explicit details about its tactile feedback are less defined. Choosing between these two will depend largely on individual preferences regarding sound and feel, but each promises a high-quality experience tailored to different typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and what you prioritize in your keyboard experience. If you find yourself leaning towards a quieter switch but still appreciate some tactile feedback, the Firefly may be the ideal choice for you. Its gentle actuation and chirpy sound offer a unique and comfortable typing experience, especially for extended use, with minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and deeper sound profile, the Jelly switch might be more to your liking. With its low-pitched, thocky sound and lightweight actuation force, the Jelly provides a satisfying yet effortless keypress that is excellent for both gaming and typing. In the end, consider how each switch aligns with your needs; if you value a tactile response with a subtle sound, go for the Firefly, while if you favor a silky and robust keypress, the Jelly would be a better fit.
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