Dareu Firefly vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Dareu Firefly and the Durock Light Tactile. The Firefly switch offers a unique take on clicky switches, providing a quiet typing experience with a light actuation and subtle clickiness. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock offers a gentle tactility that stands out from sharper tactile switches on the market, delivering a smooth and polished typing experience. If you prefer an easy-to-press and chirpy switch, the Firefly may be the choice for you. Alternatively, if you enjoy a neutral, mild, and polished typing experience, the Light Tactile could be the ideal option. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and the Durock Light Tactile both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. However, while the top housings of both switches are similar, the Firefly's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Light Tactile also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound.
The distinction between the top and bottom housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and Durock Light Tactile is crucial in understanding the different qualities each contributes to the typing experience. The materials used in the bottom housing have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, with nylon creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing. Meanwhile, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, with the stiffness of polycarbonate enhancing the sharpness and clarity of the sound. Despite the differing bottom housing materials, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound and feel due to the shared polycarbonate top housing.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Firefly and the Durock Light Tactile share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, their nylon bottom housings offer slightly different sound profiles when typing. The Firefly's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing provides a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel, with both options offering unique qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Light Tactile's 52 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the bottom out force of the Light Tactile is higher at 67 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience compared to the Firefly, for which the bottom out force is unknown. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Firefly, while those seeking a more substantial feel may opt for the Light Tactile. In either case, both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The Firefly and Light Tactile switches are equal in this aspect, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels. This similarity ensures that users can expect similar results when using either switch, making them both reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 and chirpy sound, which sets it apart from other clicky switches. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wider range of users and environments. The sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is easy-to-press with a light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable. This can reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions and enhance the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle tactility that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. The smooth and refined finish of the Light Tactile switch contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly and Durock Light Tactile switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly provides a quiet and light actuation with just a hint of clickiness, while the Light Tactile offers a gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature. Depending on individual preferences and typing habits, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Firefly being more unique in its sound profile and the Light Tactile offering a polished and approachable typing feel. Ultimately, users can expect a pleasant typing experience from either switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Firefly tactile switch or the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, you should think about your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a very light actuation and a quiet typing experience with just a hint of clickiness, the Firefly switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Light Tactile switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and which qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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