Dareu Firefly vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offer unique features for different preferences. The Firefly is a tactile switch that provides a quiet and light actuation without the traditional clicky sound, making it ideal for those who prefer an easy-to-press and chirpy typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and budget-friendly price point, offering a buttery smoothness and a low-pitched "thock" sound for those who appreciate a buttery, bassy, thocky, and low-pitched typing feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), we can see that they both feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This similarity means that both switches are likely to provide a similar tactile experience when bottoming out, with a more subdued and rounded sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings.
When it comes to the top housing material, the Firefly boasts a polycarbonate top housing, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Firefly creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a more resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, giving a different auditory experience to users. This contrast highlights how the choice of top housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, while the Firefly and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both feature nylon bottom housings, their top housing materials differ, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Firefly's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more defined typing experience. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3)'s nylon top housing creates a fuller and warmer sound, appealing to users who enjoy a deeper sound profile. Although they may have different top housing materials, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience thanks to their quality materials and construction.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro is the heavier option with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Firefly's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Firefly's force is unknown while the Milky Red Pro requires 52 grams, which is considered medium-light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to prevent fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming, the Firefly may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Milky Red Pro with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance before the key actuates. This can result in a similar typing experience and feel for users who prefer switches with a 4 mm travel distance. The fact that both switches have the same travel distance allows users to choose between them based on other factors such as actuation force or sound profile, without having to consider a difference in travel distance.
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 Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 tactile switch is known for its chirpy and unique acoustic signature, offering a light actuation without the classic clicky sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch presents a bassy and thocky sound profile, with a low-pitched tone that provides a satisfying typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Firefly may appeal to those who prefer a quieter and more distinct sound, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be favored by individuals who enjoy a deeper and richer sound during key presses.
Moving on to the feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is highlighted for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and minimal force required to activate the switch. This results in a comfortable and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is recognized for its buttery and smooth keystrokes, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation that enhances the overall typing experience. Both switches offer a different tactile feel, catering to users with varying preferences for keypress resistance and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch present distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Firefly offers a quiet and light actuation with a hint of clickiness, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides a smooth and buttery typing experience accompanied by a bassy and thocky sound. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound profile, typing feel, and overall typing experience. However, both switches guarantee a satisfying and engaging typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar high-quality results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a quieter switch with a light actuation force and a hint of clickiness, the Firefly may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and affordable typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force and a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is worth considering. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to help guide your decision based on your desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
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