Dareu Firefly vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) present two distinct yet appealing options for different types of typists and gamers. The Firefly, a tactile switch, boasts a light actuation that provides a hint of clickiness, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a responsive feel without the loud disruption of traditional clicky switches. Its "Easy-to-press" and "Chirpy" characteristics ensure a smooth typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue while delivering satisfying tactile feedback. Conversely, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) stands out as a linear switch, offering a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g that delivers a bouncy feel paired with a bright and resonant sound. This switch caters to individuals who prefer a quieter experience while still enjoying the fluidity of linear actuation. Both switches have their unique advantages—choose the Firefly for a quiet yet tactile response, or the Lotus for a heavier feel with a satisfying bounce. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), a notable distinction arises between their top and bottom housings. The Firefly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer properties that contribute to a sharper, more resonant sound profile. This stiffer plastic's translucency also enhances RGB lighting effects, offering both aesthetic appeal and functionality. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) employs a nylon top housing, which is a softer plastic that tends to absorb sound more effectively. As a result, the sound produced from the Lotus's switches has a deeper and fuller quality, creating a stark contrast with the Firefly's crisp sound. This differentiation showcases how the material choices can drastically affect the auditory experience of the switches.
Despite the difference in top housing materials, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material. This commonality leads to similar sound characteristics when the switch is actuated. The nylon bottom brings a softer touch, resulting in a duller sound profile and a more cushioned feel when pressed down. Consequently, both switches manage to retain a full-bodied sound, albeit in different contexts; the Firefly, with its polycarbonate top, amplifies the higher frequencies when releasing a key, while the Lotus (Heavy)'s nylon top dampens those frequencies for a warm sound profile. This interplay between housing materials allows for a unique blending of audio qualities, whereby the bottom housing's properties dominate the bottom-out experience regardless of the top.
Ultimately, the distinct materials used in the top housings of the Dareu Firefly and HMX Lotus (Heavy) showcase how different properties can influence the overall switch experience. While the Firefly emphasizes clarity and brightness, the Lotus leans towards warmth and depth. However, with both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, they still share a semblance in sound and sensation during keypresses. This scenario illustrates how the balance of materials in keyboard switches can harmonize and create multifaceted auditory experiences, allowing enthusiasts to select based on personal preference between a more pronounced or subdued sound profile.
Weight
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different typing preferences. The Firefly requires a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it reduces fatigue for users who prefer less resistance. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) has a significantly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. While the bottom out force for the Firefly is unspecified, the Lotus has a defined bottom out force of 62.5 grams, indicating that it offers a firmer response when the key is fully depressed. Users seeking a lighter switch may find the Firefly more appealing, while those who appreciate a heavier, more resistant key feel might opt for the Lotus, especially when considering the added weight at the bottom out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, it is clear that the Firefly has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lotus (Heavy) measures 3.5 mm. This means that if you choose the Firefly, you'll experience a greater depth when pressing the key, which some users may find more satisfying, as it can provide a more deliberate actuation. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy), with its shorter travel distance, may be more appealing to gamers or those who prefer quicker response times, offering a faster, albeit more abrupt, keystroke. Thus, if you value responsiveness, the Lotus (Heavy) switch would be the preferable option, whereas the Firefly would be better suited for users who appreciate a more pronounced key press.
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 HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
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 tactile switch stands out with its unique chirpy tone, characterized by a subtle squeak. This distinct acoustic profile diverges from the typical resonant clicky sound associated with many tactile switches, providing a quiet yet engaging auditory experience. If you're after a switch that won't disturb your environment but still offers a unique sound signature, the Firefly fits the bill perfectly. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is notable for its bright and resonant sound, adding a lively quality to each keystroke. This creates an auditory feedback that feels both engaging and satisfying, catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience when typing.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Firefly offers an easy-to-press experience, with a light actuation force that requires minimal effort to activate every keypress. This design promotes a comfortable typing experience, making the Firefly particularly suitable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. Conversely, while specific details regarding the feel of the Lotus (Heavy) are not provided, its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g suggests a more substantial resistance during key presses. This likely translates into a bouncier and more tactile experience, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate a responsive and weighty keystroke.
Combining the available information, both the Dareu Firefly and HMX Lotus (Heavy) present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Firefly's chirpy sound and easy actuation create a harmonious and comfortable typing experience ideal for quieter environments. On the other hand, the Lotus (Heavy) appeals to users who appreciate a bouncy feel coupled with lively, resonant sound feedback. Ultimately, whether you lean towards a quieter, lighter switch or a more pronounced, heavy switch, both options can deliver a satisfying typing experience tailored to your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and use cases. If you value a light and effortless typing experience that is gentle on your fingers, the Firefly is your best bet. Its chirpy sound signature, combined with its easy-to-press feel, makes it an excellent choice for casual typing, long writing sessions, or general use where you want a quieter environment without the clacky noise of traditional mechanical switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile response with a satisfying weight and sound to your keystrokes, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is likely the better option. Its medium-heavy actuation force and bouncy feel provide a robust typing experience, perfect for gaming or situations where feedback is essential. In essence, consider your typing style and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard; this will guide you in selecting the switch that best suits your needs.
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