Dareu Firefly vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a wide variety of options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Two popular switches to consider are the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Dustproof Purple. The Dareu Firefly is a tactile switch that offers a light actuation and a subtle clickiness without the traditional loud clicky sound. It is best known for being easy to press and having a chirpy feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch with no specific standout features. While the Firefly may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience with a slight tactile feedback, the Dustproof Purple may appeal to those who enjoy a more classic clicky sound. 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
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 Purple switches have polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this material for their top housings, they may differ in other aspects that affect sound and feel.
On the other hand, both switches also feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Despite the similarity in bottom housing material, the overall typing experience may still vary depending on other factors unique to each switch design.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches may affect the overall typing experience for users. While both switches share polycarbonate top housings that create a clear and resonant sound, the nylon bottom housings may contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile that differs between the switches. The distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings can impact not only the sound but also the feel when typing on each switch, making them distinct in their own right.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is evident that the Firefly is lighter in terms of actuation force at 40 grams compared to the Dustproof Purple at 55 grams. While the actuation force for the Firefly is on the lighter side, it is worth noting that the bottom out force is not specified. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a bit heavier overall. The actuation force is crucial as it determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press a key all the way down. If one prefers a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Firefly may be the better choice, while those seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the heavier Dustproof Purple switch. Ultimately, understanding the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches is essential in selecting the one that best suits individual preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect similar results in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity in travel distance indicates that both switches provide a consistent and tactile feedback experience for users. Overall, the travel distance of 4 mm for both switches ensures that users can easily gauge the actuation point and receive a satisfying keypress whether using the Dareu Firefly or the Outemu Dustproof Purple.
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 Purple 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 provides a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from the classic clicky switches. It offers a light actuation with a hint of clickiness, giving a pleasant and quieter typing experience compared to traditional clicky switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch's sound quality is unknown, so it's difficult to compare it to the Firefly in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses. With a low actuation force, typing on the Firefly switch is effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. This switch enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky 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, making it a great option for those looking for a quieter and comfortable typing experience. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch are unknown, it's important to consider factors such as personal preference, typing style, and keyboard setup when choosing between these two switches to ensure you get the best match for your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a new take on clicky switches that is quiet and offers a light actuation with a hint of clickiness, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a classic clicky sound signature, then the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch would be more suitable for your typing preferences. Consider your preferred typing experience and sound profile when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Firefly and Dustproof Purple will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you as you type.
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