Dareu Firefly vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Dustproof Green. The Dareu Firefly is a tactile switch that offers a unique take on clicky switches by providing a quiet typing experience with a subtle clickiness. It is known for its easy-to-press keys and chirpy sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green is a clicky switch that does not have a specific standout feature but is known for its durability. While the Firefly offers a more gentle typing experience, the Dustproof Green is a reliable option for those looking for a sturdy switch. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches use polycarbonate for their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material choice for those looking to enhance their typing experience with RGB lighting. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate adds an aesthetic appeal to the switches, making them visually appealing as well.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both switches use nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in these switches allows for a unique typing experience, with the qualities of each material being felt differently depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or letting it go.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches creates a balanced sound profile that caters to both auditory and tactile preferences. While both switches share similar housing materials, the split between the top and bottom characteristics ensures a varied typing experience that can be appreciated by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a blend of sharpness, depth, and resonance in their switch choices.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Green switch is heavier in both aspects. The Firefly has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the Dustproof Green requires 65 grams to actuate. Additionally, the Firefly lacks information on its bottom out force, whereas the Dustproof Green has a bottom out force of 80 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Firefly would be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green would be suitable for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that both switches will provide a similar feeling when pressed down on a key, as the distance traveled by the switch is the same. Despite this similarity, the two switches have different characteristics that set them apart. The Firefly tactile switch is known for its smooth and quiet operation, providing a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green clicky switch offers a tactile bump and audible click with each keystroke, resulting in a more tactile and audible typing experience. Overall, while both switches share the same travel distance, the Firefly offers a quieter typing experience, while the Dustproof Green provides a more tactile and clicky 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 Outemu Dustproof Green 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 chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. This light and quiet switch provides a subtle clickiness that adds to the typing experience without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch's sound characteristics are not known. It's important to consider that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate. This gentle resistance makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The responsive and low-impact typing feel enhances the overall typing experience for users. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Green switch is not described. Despite this, it can be assumed that the tactile feedback and actuation force of the switch play a significant role in the typing feel.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offers a quieter and lighter actuation with a hint of clickiness, making it a great option for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. While the sound characteristics and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch are unknown, it can be inferred that it may produce a louder clicky sound and offer a different typing feel. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you are looking for a quiet and light actuation switch with a hint of clickiness, the Firefly may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a classic resonant clicky sound, the Dustproof Green switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing. Consider trying out both switches if possible to determine which one best suits your typing style and preferences.
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