Dareu Firefly vs. Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Firefly and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) mechanical keyboard switches, we see two different approaches to tactile feedback. The Firefly offers a quiet and light actuation with a hint of clickiness, making it a comfortable and easy-to-press option. On the other hand, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) provides a sharp and strong tactile feel with a unique blend of materials for a premium typing experience, creating a more accentuated and resonant sensation. While the Firefly may appeal to those looking for a subtle and gentle typing experience, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is ideal for those who prefer a more distinctive and impactful 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Firefly and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components, with the Firefly utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, while the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) uses PBT for both the top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top housing of the Firefly creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the PBT top housing of the Moyu Black offers a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Firefly produces a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the PBT bottom housing of the Moyu Black which also offers a neutral sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches manage to provide a balanced sound experience with their respective housing materials.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Firefly allows for translucency and is especially useful for RGB lighting effects. Conversely, the PBT top housing of the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) remains relatively unseen when in use. While the Firefly's polycarbonate top housing is stiffer and provides a clearer and resonant sound profile, the PBT top housing of the Moyu Black offers a more subdued sound experience. However, in the context of housing materials, both switches showcase unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and appearance.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom components of a switch can greatly affect the typing experience and sound profile. Despite the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Firefly and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade), both switches offer a well-balanced sound profile that caters to varying preferences in sound and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch to the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are notable differences. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Firefly's force is unknown, whereas the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams. The variation in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches allows for different typing experiences. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Firefly may be more suitable, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Moyu Black (Dark Jade). Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Dareu Firefly and Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switches are both 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance ensures that typing or gaming with either switch will provide a consistent tactile feedback and typing experience. Both switches offer a moderate level of key travel, allowing for comfortable typing while still maintaining a satisfying tactile feel. Overall, whether you choose the Dareu Firefly or the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of 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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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 unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from traditional clicky switches, giving it a distinctive acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch provides a resonant sound profile that is clean, sharp, and immersive, enhancing the auditory typing experience. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Firefly switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. On the contrary, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch offers an accented and sharp tactile feel that provides a balanced amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The strong and crisp tactile bump of the Moyu Black switch is prominent, offering a distinctive and impactful typing experience.
Overall, while the Dareu Firefly and Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide a unique and premium typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, both switches can deliver satisfying results. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a quiet switch with a light actuation and just a hint of clickiness, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a sharp and strong tactile feel, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch would be more suited to your typing preferences. Consider the Firefly for a gentle and easy-to-press typing experience, and the Moyu Black for a more accentuated and sharp tactile feedback. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and preferences.
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