Dareu Firefly vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and the Cherry MX Black offer unique experiences for users. The Dareu Firefly is a tactile switch that provides a light actuation with a subtle clickiness, making it 'easy-to-press' and 'chirpy'. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black is a linear switch known for its smoothness and deep sound profile, categorized as 'low-pitched', 'textured', and 'stiff'. While the Firefly may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience, the MX Black is favored by users who appreciate a classic and sturdy 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Cherry MX Black, it is clear that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. However, the Firefly's top housing is made of polycarbonate, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound, especially useful for RGB lighting. In contrast, the MX Black's top housing is also made of nylon, resulting in a dulled and rounder sound compared to the Firefly's top housing.
While both the Dareu Firefly and Cherry MX Black utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the top housing materials set them apart in terms of the sound profile they produce. The Firefly's polycarbonate top housing creates a more distinct and resonant sound, while the MX Black's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in top housing materials gives each switch a unique auditory experience, with the Firefly offering a sharper and higher-pitched sound, and the MX Black providing a duller and rounder sound. Despite the difference in sound profiles, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches will have a softer and more absorbent sound overall.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch is crucial to the typing experience. With the Firefly's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing, the switch will offer a sharper and crisper sound when pressing down keys, while also providing a deeper sound profile due to the softer nylon bottom housing. In comparison, the Cherry MX Black's nylon top and bottom housing will result in a dulled and rounder sound both when pressing down keys and when releasing them. Understanding how each housing material affects the sound profile and feel of a switch can help users choose the best option for their typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, we can see significant differences. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes compared to the MX Black's heavier actuation force of 60 grams. However, since the bottom out force of the Firefly is unknown, it is difficult to compare it directly to the MX Black's hefty bottom out force of 80 grams. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Firefly for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the more substantial typing experience provided by the heavier actuation force of the MX Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance can result in a consistent typing or gaming experience for users who prefer a shorter travel distance. However, it is worth noting that despite the travel distance being the same, the tactile feedback and actuation force of the two switches may differ, affecting the overall feel and performance of the switches.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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, providing a subtle clickiness without the classic loud click associated with clicky switches. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch delivers a low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and more mellow tone when typing. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is known for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force for activation. This light actuation force enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the Cherry MX Black switch is described as having a textured and stiff feel, offering noticeable friction when pressed and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. Some users may prefer the textured feedback of these switches while others may find it less comfortable.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly and Cherry MX Black switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles for users to consider based on their preferences. If you enjoy a lighter actuation force and subtle clickiness, the Firefly may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, bass-heavy sound and enjoy a textured typing experience with a stiffer feel, then the Cherry MX Black switch would be a suitable option. As with any mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for your typing needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a quiet and light tactile switch with a gentle actuation force, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch would be a great choice for you. It offers an easy-to-press feel that enhances the typing experience and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy linear switch with a classic smooth texture and deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black switch would be more suitable for you. With a heavier bottom out force and a stiff texture, the MX Black switch provides a different typing experience compared to the Firefly. Ultimately, the decision between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch boils down to your personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider your typing style and preferences before making a choice between these two switches.
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