Dareu Firefly vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Luciola are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for users. The Firefly from Dareu is a tactile switch that stands out for its quiet and light actuation, providing a subtle clickiness without the typical loud sound signature. On the other hand, the Luciola from Gateron is a linear switch that not only glows in the dark but also offers a medium heft, smooth typing feel, and a distinct "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. While the Firefly is known for being easy to press and chirpy, the Luciola is characterized as snappy, clacky, chirpy, marbly, buttery, high-pitched, and polished. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences in terms of typing experience. 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
60g
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Luciola, we see that both switches feature unique qualities that contribute to their sound profiles. The Firefly's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffness, while the Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound. However, both switches excel in providing a satisfying sound experience that is different in character but equally enjoyable.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Firefly's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Similarly, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to a high-pitched and clacky sound that is unique to Gateron switches. While the sound profiles may differ, both switches offer a well-rounded typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The Firefly and Luciola switches showcase how different housing materials can create distinct sound profiles that cater to varying preferences. Whether it's the sharper, resonant sound of polycarbonate in the Firefly or the clacky sound of Gateron's proprietary INK blend in the Luciola, both switches offer unique characteristics that enhance the typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, we can see that the Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Luciola's 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Firefly's force is unknown, while the Luciola has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Luciola is heavier both in terms of actuation and bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Firefly, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Luciola due to its higher actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Firefly offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper feeling when pressing a key. On the other hand, the Luciola provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which could be favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a balanced experience in terms of travel distance, with the Firefly being a tad longer and the Luciola being a bit shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 chirpy sound profile, which adds a unique acoustic signature to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switch provides a clacky sound when pressed, giving off a sharp and snappy tone. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Firefly being quieter and the Luciola being more percussive.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is known for its easy-to-press actuation, offering a light typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. Conversely, the Gateron Luciola switch is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing feel that makes your keystrokes feel more alive. Both switches offer different tactile sensations, with the Firefly providing a smoother and low-impact feel, while the Luciola offers a more aggressive and responsive typing experience.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly and Gateron Luciola switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a light actuation force, the Firefly switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more percussive and snappy typing feel, the Luciola switch might be the better option. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches to ensure you get the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a light actuation with a hint of clickiness and a quiet typing experience, the Firefly would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a unique glow-in-the-dark feature, the Luciola switch might be more to your liking. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, go for the Firefly, while if you prefer a switch with a clacky sound, snappy feel, or buttery and polished typing experience, the Luciola would be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
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