Dareu Firefly vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, two popular switches to consider are the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Blue Jade. The Firefly, a tactile switch, offers a unique take on clicky switches by providing a quieter typing experience with a light actuation and subtle clickiness. On the other hand, the Blue Jade, a clicky switch, is known for its distinct clicky sound and satisfying tactile feedback. While the Firefly is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Chirpy', the Blue Jade does not have any specific categories associated with it. Both switches have their own merits and appeal to different preferences in terms of typing experience. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Blue Jade, there are noticeable differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Firefly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Blue Jade's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder tone. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Firefly and Blue Jade use nylon, which creates a similar deep and full sound profile. Nylon's softness plays a significant role in absorbing sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound for both switches. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both switches deliver a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. While the top and bottom housings of each switch may vary, the use of nylon in the bottom housing maintains a common thread in the sound profile produced by both the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Blue Jade.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches significantly impacts the sound and feel of typing. The Firefly's polycarbonate top housing lends itself to a sharper and clearer sound, while the Blue Jade's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller tone. Both switches share the use of nylon in the bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile that is characterized by its roundness and depth. Whether one prefers a crisper sound or a fuller tone, both the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Blue Jade offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences, making them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, which requires 50 grams of force to actuate. However, the Firefly's bottom out force is unknown, while the Blue Jade has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Firefly may provide a more effortless typing experience for those who prefer lighter switches, while the Blue Jade offers a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Both switches provide tactile feedback, but the Blue Jade may be preferred by those who enjoy a clicky sound with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be said that they offer a similar tactile experience and actuation point, as both have the same travel distance. This means that regardless of whether you choose the Firefly or the Blue Jade, you can expect a consistent keypress feel and responsiveness. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so users can expect comparable results from either option.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch is renowned for its unique chirpy sound, providing a subtle clickiness without the loud and resonant click sound typically associated with clicky switches. This distinctive acoustic signature sets it apart from traditional clicky switches, offering a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound quality is unknown, making it difficult to compare in this aspect.
When it comes to feel, the Firefly switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The responsive and low-impact typing feel of the Firefly enhances the overall typing experience. Unfortunately, information on the tactile feel of the Outemu Blue Jade switch is not available for comparison.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch stands out for its unique chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, offering a quiet typing experience with minimal resistance. While information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is lacking, it is important to consider individual preferences and the overall typing setup, including the keyboard and keycaps, when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results depending on the user's preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a quiet and light actuation with just a hint of clickiness, the Firefly may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a traditional clicky sound, the Blue Jade could be more suitable. Ultimately, your personal typing preferences and needs will determine which switch is the best fit for you.
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