Dareu Firefly vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Firefly, a tactile switch, to the Zuoce Lavender, a linear switch, some key differences become apparent. The Firefly offers a unique take on clicky switches by providing a very light actuation with minimal clickiness, making it perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Lavender is praised for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature right out of the box, offering a satisfying typing experience. If you prefer an easy-to-press switch with a chirpy feel, the Firefly may be the way to go, while the Lavender is ideal for those looking for an easy-to-press switch with a clacky sound. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and Zuoce Lavender both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Firefly's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound, while the Lavender's POM top housing produces a deeper, more muted sound. However, both switches feature POM bottom housings, which contribute to a similar deep and pleasing sound. This shared bottom housing material may result in a slightly more muted sound profile overall when comparing the two switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the Firefly's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the Lavender's POM top housing does not offer the same visual effect but is known for its unique sound profile. Both switches prioritize sound quality, with the Firefly focusing on a sharper and crisper sound, while the Lavender offers a deeper and more muted sound. Despite their differences in sound characteristics, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience for users.
It is important to note that the choice of housing materials greatly impacts the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch. The combination of different materials for the top and bottom housings allows for a balance between the impact of pressing down on a key and the sound when releasing it. While the Firefly's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound and creates a fuller sound profile, the Lavender's POM bottom housing contributes to a similar deep and muted sound experience. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for each switch play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch to the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom-out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Lavender's 48 grams, making it more effortless to trigger key presses. However, the Lavender has a bottom-out force of 53 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Firefly, which has an unknown bottom-out force. The lighter actuation force of the Firefly may appeal to those who prefer typing for extended periods, while the heavier bottom-out force of the Lavender may be favored by those seeking a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Firefly provides a bit more depth to each keystroke compared to the Lavender, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Lavender offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster input. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Firefly switch offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches, adding a subtle squeak to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch provides a crisp and clacky sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive, making typing a satisfying auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, both the Dareu Firefly and Zuoce Lavender switches are described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Overall, both switches provide a responsive and low-impact typing feel that can improve typing speed and accuracy for users.
Considering the information provided on the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it is clear that they offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly provides a chirpy sound and an easy-to-press feel, while the Lavender offers a clacky sound and the same easy-to-press feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing experience, users can choose between these switches to customize their mechanical keyboard to suit their needs. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with unique characteristics that can enhance the overall enjoyment of using a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a very light actuation force with a hint of clickiness and a quiet typing experience, the Firefly switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value exceptional smoothness right out of the box, a crisp and clacky sound signature, and a medium-light bottom out force, the Lavender switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel while typing.
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