Dareu Firefly vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch. The Firefly switch from Dareu provides a unique take on clicky switches by offering a very light actuation with just a hint of clickiness, making it easy to press and chirpy in nature. On the other hand, the MX Red from Cherry is a classic switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that is both responsive and satisfyingly textured. Each switch has its own strengths and 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
The Dareu Firefly and the Cherry MX Red both feature nylon bottom housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. However, the Firefly stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, the Firefly's polycarbonate top housing provides a unique sound experience compared to the MX Red.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of different housing materials in the Dareu Firefly and Cherry MX Red affects not only the sound but also the visual appeal of the switches. The Firefly's polycarbonate top housing gives it a distinct look with its translucent properties, making it suitable for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the MX Red's nylon top housing is more traditional, providing a classic appearance. While both switches have nylon bottom housings that create a deeper sound profile, the Firefly's unique combination of polycarbonate and nylon materials sets it apart in terms of both sound and visual appeal.
When it comes to overall typing experience, the combination of different housing materials in the Dareu Firefly and Cherry MX Red results in a unique feel for each switch. The qualities of the bottom housing material are most noticeable when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. While both switches offer a fulfilling typing experience, the Firefly's use of polycarbonate in the top housing adds a sharper and crisper sound profile that sets it apart from the MX Red.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is clear that the Firefly is the lighter option with an actuation force of 40 grams, compared to the MX Red's 45 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it is difficult to determine which one requires more force to fully press down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Firefly may be the preferred choice, as the lower actuation force allows for comfortable extended typing or gaming sessions. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the MX Red's slightly higher actuation force may provide the desired feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of how far the switches travel when pressed. However, the key difference between the two switches lies in their tactile feedback - the Firefly offers a tactile bump when pressed, providing a more pronounced feel, while the MX Red has a smooth linear action without any tactile bump. Despite this difference, the travel distance remains the same for both switches, offering users consistency in the typing experience.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 tactile switch offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches, providing a light actuation with just a hint of clickiness. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper, more satisfying auditory experience. The choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for sound - whether one prefers a quieter, chirpy sound or a deeper, thocky sound when typing.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is noted for its textured feel, which may provide a more tactile typing experience for some users. The preference for feel between the two switches depends on whether one prefers a smoother, low-impact typing feel or a more textured typing experience.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer different sound and feel profiles for users to choose from. If a quieter, chirpy sound with easy-to-press key presses is preferred, the Firefly switch may be the better option. Alternatively, if a deeper, thocky sound with a textured feel is desired, the Cherry MX Red switch would be the preferable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel for an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a quiet and light switch with a hint of clickiness, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch would be a great choice. It offers a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience that is perfect for those looking to reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red linear switch would be more suitable. Its textured feel provides a unique typing experience that some users may prefer. Ultimately, your choice between the Firefly and MX Red switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
