Dareu Firefly vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offer distinct experiences for users. The Firefly switch by Dareu is a tactile switch that provides a light actuation with a hint of clickiness, making it easy to press and chirpy without the classic clicky sound. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro from Akko is a linear switch known for its smooth and substantial feel, resulting in a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out with clear and tactile feedback. While the Firefly may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience, the Matcha Green Pro may be ideal for individuals who enjoy a responsive keystroke with resonant clacks. 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
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Firefly and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate lends itself to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those looking for an impactful typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
However, when it comes to their bottom housings, the Firefly features a nylon material while the V3 Matcha Green Pro also opts for nylon. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, offering a different typing experience compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings.
In terms of overall typing experience, the qualities brought by the different housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches ultimately offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Firefly is lighter in both aspects. The Firefly has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams, making the Firefly easier to press down. Additionally, the Firefly has a bottom out force that is unknown, compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro's bottom out force of 63 grams, which is considered medium. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Firefly for longer typing sessions, while users who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the V3 Matcha Green Pro for a stronger typing experience. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches cater to different preferences in typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, we can see that the Firefly has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Firefly being slightly longer. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Matcha Green Pro, while those who prefer a more deliberate key press may lean towards the Firefly. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for $2.20.
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 switch is known for its chirpy and unique acoustic signature, offering a quiet and light actuation with a hint of clickiness. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch produces a sharp and snappy clack with a resonant profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience for typists and gamers who enjoy a crisp and bright sound. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Firefly being quieter and the Matcha Green Pro being more resonant.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Firefly is recognized for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and enhancing the typing experience with a responsive and low-impact feel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch provides a bouncy and creamy sensation, with a polished and silky finish that results in a smooth and buttery typing experience. While both switches offer a different tactile feedback, they excel in providing a comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and enhances overall typing performance.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly provides a quiet and light actuation with a chirpy sound, along with an easy-to-press feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Matcha Green Pro switch delivers a sharp and resonant sound, along with a bouncy and creamy feel that offers a smooth and responsive typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches are designed to cater to different typing needs and provide a satisfying keystroke experience for users.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, you should consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a quiet and light actuation with just a hint of clickiness, the Firefly may be the more suitable option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp and satisfyingly tactile feedback with resonant clacks, the Matcha Green Pro switches could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most - whether it's a smooth and effortless feel or a more pronounced and responsive keystroke. Consider your personal typing style and preferences when making your selection.
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