Dareu Firefly vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the tactile satisfaction of switches like the Dareu Firefly and the smooth simplicity of linear options such as the Keygeek Keylin. The Firefly offers a unique twist on the classic clicky design, providing a pleasantly light actuation paired with a subtle hint of clickiness. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy tactile feedback without the louder resonant sound typically associated with clicky switches. On the other hand, the Keylin excels in delivering a buttery-smooth typing experience, thanks to new molds employed by Keygeek, enhancing both acoustics and fluidity in every keystroke. While the Firefly stands out for its nuanced tactile feel, the Keylin is ideal for users seeking that seamless linear response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
38g
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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Keygeek Keylin switches, a notable distinction arises in their top housings. The Firefly features a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the material's stiffness, allowing for a clear and resonant sound. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for RGB lighting enthusiasts, as it allows the illumination to shine through more vividly. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin employs a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon contributes to a sound that is more subdued and round, implying that the auditory experience will differ significantly between these two switches due to the contrasting characteristics of their top housing materials.
Interestingly, the bottom housings of both the Firefly and the Keylin are made from nylon, which means that their acoustic and tactile properties in that respect will be similar. Both switches, having a nylon bottom housing, deliver a deeper and softer bottom-out sound due to nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively. This shared material choice means that for both the Firefly and Keylin, the bottom housing will contribute to a similar overall fullness in sound when the switch is pressed down. The commonality in the bottom housings suggests that users looking for deeper sound profiles may find comparable results regardless of the top housing differences.
The overall performance and sound qualities of each switch can therefore be analyzed in terms of how the dual material housing influences the typing experience. While the polycarbonate top on the Firefly enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound released as keys are released, the nylon top of the Keylin yields a more muted auditory experience. However, since both feature nylon for the bottom housing, the depth of sound when bottoming out looks to be consistent across both switches. Thus, the experience will blend characteristics from each material: users will enjoy a distinctive top sound profile from the Firefly and a more rounded response from the Keylin, with a common subdued fullness rooted in the nylon bottom shared by both.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Firefly boasts an actuation force of 40 grams, while the Keylin features a slightly lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it the lighter option between the two. However, the Keylin also has a defined bottom out force of 48 grams, which is crucial for users who prefer a more substantial feel when a key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Firefly is not available, making it difficult to assess its complete touch experience. While both switches provide relatively low actuation forces suitable for prolonged typing and gaming sessions, the Keylin offers a heavier bottom out force for those who appreciate a firmer response. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter touch will find the Keylin more appealing, while those who favor a stronger tactile experience may lean towards the Firefly, despite its incomplete specifications.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Firefly has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Keylin measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Keylin the shorter switch, which is often favored by gamers seeking quicker response times. Conversely, the Firefly offers a more pronounced travel depth, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. For users who appreciate tactile feedback and a deeper keypress, the longer travel distance of the Firefly may be preferable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches can significantly affect one's typing experience, depending on individual preferences for depth and responsiveness.
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 Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 stands out with its unique chirpy acoustic signature. Unlike traditional clicky switches, the Firefly produces a quiet typing experience, highlighting a light actuation that incorporates a subtle hint of clickiness. This places it in a unique position, as it offers a quieter alternative while still providing a mild auditory feedback that some typists may find appealing. In contrast, while the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is known for its premium typing experience, there is no specific sound characteristic attributed to it. This suggests that the Keylin is likely to be a smoother and more subdued option in terms of acoustics, thereby producing less noise than the Firefly, especially since it is classified as linear.
The feel of the Firefly switch is defined by its easy-to-press nature, characterized by a gentle resistance during key presses. This results in minimal force required to activate the switch, providing a comfortable experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The light actuation force enhances the overall responsiveness, making typing an effortless and enjoyable activity. On the other hand, the Keylin linear switches are noted for their exceptional smoothness, which typically correlates with a seamless keystroke experience devoid of tactile bumps. However, without further details on the specific attributes of the Keylin's feel, it’s difficult to compare its tactile feedback directly against that of the Firefly.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Firefly's chirpy sound and easy-actuation make it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a slight auditory cue without overwhelming noise. Meanwhile, the Keylin's smoothness promises an unhindered typing experience with a focus on quiet performance. Depending on your priorities—whether sound or feel—they provide good options that can suit varying typing styles, yet yield different overall experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a quieter experience with a light touch and a hint of clickiness, the Firefly is an excellent option, especially if you'll be typing for long periods. The easy-to-press design minimizes finger fatigue, making it ideal for extended typing sessions while still providing a unique acoustic profile with its chirpy sound. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more traditional linear switch with a satisfying smoothness and consistent feel, the Keylin should be your go-to choice. Its 48-gram actuation force offers a balance between responsiveness and comfort, perfect for gaming and fast-paced typing where precision is key. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths; it just comes down to whether you prioritize a tactile experience with light resistance or a smoother, linear feel for your typing or gaming adventures. Consider your habits and preferences carefully to select the switch that best fits your keyboard experience.
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