Dareu Firefly vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Miaowu. The Firefly switch offers a tactile typing experience that is easy to press with a slight hint of clickiness, making it enjoyable for users who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch provides a linear typing experience with enhanced stem stability and a bouncy, clacky feel to each keystroke. Both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
POK
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
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and the KTT Miaowu both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, while both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings, the differences lie in their bottom housings.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Miaowu utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, pressing down on either switch will elicit the qualities of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Miaowu results in switches that offer a balance of crispness and depth in sound profiles. While their top housings provide a sharper sound and are aesthetically pleasing for RGB lighting, the bottom housings enhance the overall sound experience with a deeper and fuller tone. This combination allows for a unique typing experience that combines the best qualities of both materials in each switch.
Weight
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the KTT Miaowu linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, the Firefly does not disclose its bottom out force, while the Miaowu has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it heavier in comparison. For those who prefer a lighter feel while typing or gaming for extended periods, the Firefly may be a more suitable option. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Miaowu switch with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the KTT Miaowu linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Firefly's 4.0mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, while the Miaowu's 3.5mm travel distance offers a slightly shallower experience. Gamers may prefer the Miaowu switch for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during gameplay. However, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may prefer the Firefly switch for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 offers a chirpy and unique acoustic signature with a hint of clickiness, providing a quieter typing experience compared to traditional clicky switches. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu switch produces a sharp and snappy clacky sound, giving a crisp and bright feedback with each key press. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, catering to different preferences in terms of typing sound.
In regard to feel, the Firefly switch is designed to be easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This switch provides a responsive and low-impact typing feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Miaowu switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel and quick rebound when pressed. Depending on personal preference for typing resistance and feedback, users can choose between the effortless typing experience of the Firefly or the lively rebound of the Miaowu switch.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly provides a quieter and easy-to-press typing experience with a chirpy sound, while the Miaowu delivers a sharp clacky sound with a bouncy feedback sensation. Depending on individual preferences for typing sound and feel, both switches cater to a variety of typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether a user values a quiet typing experience with gentle key presses or a more pronounced auditory feedback and lively key rebound.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you are looking for a quiet switch with a light actuation force and a subtle clickiness, the Firefly may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a snappy sound and a bouncy, spring-like feel, the Miaowu linear switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of sound and feel you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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