Dareu Firefly vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Firefly, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Oil King, a linear switch. The Firefly switch from Dareu offers a unique take on clicky switches by providing a quiet typing experience with a light actuation and a subtle hint of clickiness. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King is praised for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile that is often compared to dark chocolate snapping. While the Firefly switch is perfect for those looking for an easy-to-press and chirpy typing experience, the Oil King switch is ideal for users who prefer a low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, and polished 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Oil King both feature distinctive housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Firefly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Oil King incorporates a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. While the Firefly's top housing benefits from the translucency of polycarbonate for RGB lighting effects, the Oil King's nylon housing offers a classic feel and sound experience.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Firefly and Oil King switch housing materials have similarities and differences. The Firefly features a nylon bottom housing, which, like its top housing, elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both bottom housings offer unique sound characteristics, the Firefly's nylon housing provides a duller and rounder sound, while the Oil King's INK blend offers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Oil King result in distinct typing experiences. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing in the Firefly leads to a clear, resonant sound when pressing down on the switch, as well as a deeper sound upon release. Conversely, the Oil King's nylon and proprietary INK blend housings create a fuller sound when typing and a clacky sound upon key release. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gateron Oil King linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Firefly is unknown, while the Oil King has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium to heavy switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Firefly, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may prefer the Oil King. Ultimately, the actuation force and bottom out force of each switch play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for the user.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is identical. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation with both switches. The similarity in travel distance makes them equally suitable for those who prefer a consistent typing experience. Overall, the Firefly and Oil King switches offer a reliable and responsive typing experience with the same 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 Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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 tactile switch offers a unique and chirpy sound profile, adding a subtle squeak to key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch provides a low-pitched and bassy tone, resembling the snapping of a dark chocolate bar. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Firefly being quieter and the Oil King having a deeper and richer sound.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering minimal resistance during key presses. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King linear switch provides a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, with a polished finish that enhances smooth key travel. Both switches excel in providing a smooth and comfortable typing feel, with the Firefly focusing on light actuation and the Oil King emphasizing a luxurious glide across the keys.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Firefly provides a quieter and easier-to-press typing experience with a hint of clickiness, the Oil King offers a deeper and smoother typing sensation reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. Whether you prefer a lighter actuation or a buttery smooth feel, both switches offer high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to explore. Ultimately, the best choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Firefly tactile switch or the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is important to focus on your personal preferences and typing style. If you are someone who enjoys a light actuation force and a quieter typing experience with a hint of clickiness, then the Firefly switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing feel, the Oil King switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch - whether it be sound, feel, or overall typing experience. By understanding these key differences, you can make an informed choice that suits your individual needs and enhances your typing enjoyment.
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