Dareu Firefly vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and Jerrzi Orange both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Firefly is a tactile switch that provides a light actuation with a hint of clickiness, giving users a quiet typing experience categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Chirpy'. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange is a linear switch known for its lightweight feel and crisp, audible feedback with each keystroke, offering a vibrant typing experience categorized as 'Feathery', 'Easy-to-press', 'Subdued', and 'Clacky'. If you're looking for a quiet and light switch, the Firefly may be the ideal choice, while those who prefer a lively and responsive typing experience might lean towards the Orange. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Jerrzi Orange, both switches feature polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Firefly utilizes a nylon material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange also uses nylon for its bottom housing, emphasizing a similar deep and full sound profile.
The distinction between the top and bottom housing materials of the Firefly and Orange switches is important in understanding the impact on sound and feel. The bottom housing, made of nylon in both switches, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. This softer material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound. Despite the differences in materials used for the top and bottom housing, both the Firefly and the Orange offer a combination of clear and resonant sounds.
Overall, while both the Dareu Firefly and the Jerrzi Orange utilize polycarbonate for their top housing to achieve a sharp and clear sound profile, they differ in the material used for the bottom housing. The Firefly's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Orange's nylon bottom housing offers a similar experience. These housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches, showcasing the importance of material selection in keyboard design and customization.
Weight
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Jerrzi Orange linear switch's 37 grams. This means that the Firefly will require a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke. However, both switches have undefined bottom out forces, making it difficult to determine which one requires more force to fully press down. In terms of weight, the Firefly may be considered heavier due to its higher actuation force, while the Orange switch is lighter. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Orange switch for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial feel may opt for the Firefly. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dareu Firefly tactile switch. A 0.3 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the typing experience for individuals who are sensitive to travel distances. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may opt for the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, while those who enjoy a deeper keystroke may lean towards the Dareu Firefly tactile switch. Overall, the choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference and 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 Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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 offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from the typical clicky switches, providing a subtle and distinctive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switch produces a clacky noise that is sharp and snappy, adding a vibrant and responsive element to each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, the Firefly's chirpy sound may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience, while the Orange's clacky sound may suit individuals looking for a more lively and pronounced auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, both the Dareu Firefly and Jerrzi Orange switches offer an easy-to-press experience, providing gentle resistance and requiring minimal force for activation. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, making them suitable for various purposes such as gaming, school, or work. The Firefly switch offers a low-impact and effortless typing feel, while the Orange switch provides a feathery touch that is exceptionally light on the fingers. Ultimately, both switches prioritize a comfortable typing experience with their easy-to-press nature.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, it is evident that the Dareu Firefly and Jerrzi Orange switches cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Firefly excels in providing a quieter and subtler sound profile with an easy-to-press typing feel, the Orange stands out for its lively clacky sound and feathery touch. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a chirpy and light actuation or a clacky and responsive typing sensation, selecting either the Firefly or Orange switch will result in a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, consider the specific qualities you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you value a quiet and light actuation with a hint of clickiness, the Firefly could be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky and responsive typing experience with a lively feel, the Orange switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you're looking for. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose based on what aligns best with your preferences and needs.
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