Dareu Firefly vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options on the market are the Dareu Firefly and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw. The Dareu Firefly is a tactile switch that offers a light actuation and just a hint of clickiness without the classic clicky sound signature. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw is a linear switch known for its unique material blend, providing a creamy and lightweight feel right out of the box. While the Firefly is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Chirpy', the Keygeek Raw is categorized as 'Textured', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle'. If you're looking for a quiet and light switch with a tactile feel, the Firefly may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a smooth and lightweight switch with a textured feel, the Keygeek Raw could be the better choice. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw utilize different housing materials for both the top and bottom parts of the switches. While the Firefly features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, the Keygeek Raw showcases a Nylon & UPE blend top housing that provides a unique sound experience exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. In terms of aesthetics, the Firefly's translucent polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting, adding an extra visual element to the switch, while the Keygeek Raw's top housing material remains a mystery in terms of its translucency and design possibilities.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Firefly boasts a nylon material that offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs sound effectively. Conversely, the Keygeek Raw's UMPE & Si blend bottom housing provides a distinct sound experience exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches, showcasing a different approach to creating a unique typing experience. While nylon is a classic housing material known for its sound-absorbing qualities, the UMPE & Si blend may offer a new perspective on switch design and performance.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Dareu Firefly and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience. While the Firefly opts for the traditional polycarbonate and nylon materials for its top and bottom housings respectively, the Keygeek Raw introduces exclusive blends of Nylon & UPE and UMPE & Si for a unique sound and feel. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer a distinct typing experience that caters to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, it is evident that the Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Keygeek Raw's unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Keygeek Raw is heavier at 57.5 grams, as the Firefly's bottom out force is unspecified. This means that the Firefly would provide a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended use, while the Keygeek Raw would offer a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer different benefits based on the preference of the user regarding the force required for typing.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Firefly being on the longer end and the Keygeek Raw being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Keygeek Raw for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing a key may opt for the Dareu Firefly. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 tactile switch offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches, giving it a distinct acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. The sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard they are mounted on and the keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, providing a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. This feature can help reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a textured feel right out of the box, with a mild and subtle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. Some users may prefer the noticeable friction provided by textured switches, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience without as much resistance.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch offer different sound and feel profiles, they both provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Firefly switch is ideal for those who enjoy a chirpy sound and easy-to-press keys, while the Keygeek Raw switch appeals to users looking for a neutral sound profile and a slightly textured feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a very light actuation force with a hint of clickiness and a quiet typing experience, the Firefly switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly textured and smooth typing feel with a moderate sound profile, the Keygeek Raw switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you enjoy the most.
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