Dareu Firefly vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream stand out as unique options to consider. The Firefly switch from Dareu offers a tactile typing experience without the classic loud clicky sound, providing a quiet and easy-to-press option with just a hint of clickiness. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch from Kailh offers a linear typing experience with a deep sound profile and a buttery feel. While the Firefly switch may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience, the Cream switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial and textured typing feel. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you choose the best switch for your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Dareu Firefly and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream differ significantly. The Firefly features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Cream utilizes a POM top housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound. While the Firefly's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Cream's POM top housing offers a unique sound profile that is favored by many enthusiasts. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with varying sound characteristics.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Firefly is equipped with a nylon bottom housing which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the NovelKeys Cream also features a POM bottom housing that contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side. While the bottom housing of a switch may not be as immediately noticeable during typing, it plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream each offer distinct advantages in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the Firefly's top housing creates a crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the Cream produces a deeper and more muted sound. Additionally, both switches feature bottom housings that enhance the overall sound profile, with nylon providing a fuller sound on the Firefly and POM offering a unique sound on the Cream. Ultimately, while the housing materials may vary between the two switches, they are both designed to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch to the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is evident that the NovelKeys Cream is the heavier option with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, whereas the Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and an unknown bottom out force. The Firefly allows for a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred for longer typing or gaming sessions where fatigue is a concern. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger keystroke. In terms of variables, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the actuation force and bottom out force playing a significant role in the overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile feedback and keypress experience in terms of travel distance. When comparing the travel distance of switches in general, it is important to consider how it affects the typing experience and overall feel of a keyboard. Having a consistent travel distance can help improve typing accuracy and comfort for users who prefer a certain keypress feel.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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 offers a chirpy switch with a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from others, providing a light actuation with a hint of clickiness. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches produce a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, offering a deeper and bass-heavy tone that can be immersive and clean. The choice between the two ultimately depends on whether you prefer a quieter and more unique sound experience with the Firefly, or a deeper and more resonant sound with the Cream switches.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly provides an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance, requiring minimal force to activate the keys, making typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer a buttery and invigorating typing sensation, with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is uniform and seamless. Additionally, the Cream switches provide a textured feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on whether you prefer a lighter and easier keystroke with the Firefly, or a more invigorating and textured typing experience with the Cream switches.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer unique and distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly provides a chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, while the Cream switches offer a low-pitched and resonant sound, along with a buttery and invigorating typing sensation. Both switches provide their own benefits and drawbacks, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for. Both switches are top-notch options that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and needs. If you are looking for a quiet and light tactile switch with minimal actuation force, the Dareu Firefly may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch could be more fitting for you. Ultimately, it all comes down to what feel and sound profile you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely based on your individual preferences and typing style.
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