Dareu Firefly vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Dustproof Brown mechanical keyboard switches, both being tactile switches, some key differences emerge. The Firefly is recognized for its unique take on clicky switches, offering a quiet typing experience with a light actuation and a subtle clickiness. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown does not have any specific standout features but is known for its reliable tactile feedback. If you prefer an easy-to-press switch with a chirpy feel, the Firefly may be the way to go. However, the Dustproof Brown provides a straightforward tactile 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
45g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Outemu Dustproof Brown both use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, they differ in their bottom housing material.
The Firefly utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience, with the bottom-out sound and feel being influenced by the bottom housing material.
In terms of overall performance, while both switches share the same top housing material, their different bottom housings can lead to variations in sound and typing feel. The Firefly's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a unique sound profile that is deep and resonant, while the Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing may offer a slightly less pronounced sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Firefly is lighter in terms of actuation force at 40 grams compared to the Dustproof Brown's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Dustproof Brown is heavier at 65 grams compared to the Firefly's unavailable bottom out force. This means that the Firefly will provide a lighter and possibly more responsive typing experience, while the Dustproof Brown will offer a more substantial and heavier typing feel. Both switches have similar actuation forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of keystroke sensitivity and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, their travel distance is identical, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. With both switches providing a 4 mm travel distance, users can expect a consistent feel and performance when using either switch. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will not notice a significant difference in keypress feel between the Firefly and Dustproof Brown switches. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is the same, offering a comparable typing experience for those who prefer a tactile switch with a 4 mm 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 Outemu Dustproof Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offers a unique and somewhat chirpy sound profile that sets it apart from traditional clicky switches. Its quiet operation with a hint of clickiness provides a pleasant typing experience without the usual loud clicky noises. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is unknown, making it difficult to compare to the Firefly in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is lauded for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force provides a responsive and low-impact typing feel, enhancing the overall typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch, making it challenging to evaluate its feel against the Firefly.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch stands out for its quiet operation, light actuation force, and unique chirpy sound profile, making it a great option for those looking for a quieter typing experience with a touch of clickiness. While the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch lacks specific information on sound and feel, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing requirements when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results in terms of performance and typing experience based on their tactile nature.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a quiet and light tactile switch with a unique clickiness, the Dareu Firefly switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a smooth typing experience with minimal bottom out force. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a traditional feel, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch would be more suitable. Its 65-gram bottom out force provides a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer slightly more resistance. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and noise level.
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