Dareu Firefly vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and Outemu Dustproof Red offer distinct experiences. The Dareu Firefly stands out as a tactile switch that provides a unique combination of a quiet actuation and a subtle clickiness, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback, appealing to users who prioritize a consistent and fluid typing feel. While both switches have their own strengths and are suitable for different preferences, it's essential to delve deeper into their specific characteristics to determine which one would be the best fit for your typing style. Let's explore further to help you make an informed decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Dustproof Red, we see that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness which leads to clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. As a result, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches when it comes to their top housings.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Firefly utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with its duller and rounder sound profile. Despite having different top housings, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of each switch.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Dustproof Red both feature polycarbonate top housings that lend themselves to a sharper sound profile, their use of nylon bottom housings sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. Whether it's the sharper resonance of the Firefly's polycarbonate top housing or the deeper sound of the nylon bottom housing in both switches, users can expect a unique typing experience based on the combination of housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, we can see a difference in the actuation and bottom out forces. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Dustproof Red's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Dustproof Red has a heavier force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Firefly for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Dustproof Red for a more robust typing experience. Both switches offer different feels and experiences based on the force required for actuation and bottoming out.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing these two switches, their travel distance is the same, meaning that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. Both switches provide a decent amount of travel for tactile and linear preferences, allowing for comfortable and responsive typing. In terms of travel distance, users can expect consistent results from both the Dareu Firefly and Outemu Dustproof Red switches.
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 Red 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 has a quiet and light actuation with a subtle clickiness, providing a unique typing experience that is not too loud but still satisfying. The sound profile of the Firefly can be described as chirpy, adding a bit of character to each keystroke. When it comes to feel, the Firefly is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate the keys, making typing effortless and comfortable. This switch is designed to reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions, offering a low-impact and responsive typing feel.
On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch does not have specific information available regarding its sound or feel qualities. However, based on the information provided about the Firefly, we can assume that the Dustproof Red linear switch may offer a smoother and quieter typing experience without the tactile feedback present in the Firefly switch.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is a great option for those looking for a quiet and light tactile typing experience with a unique chirpy sound profile. The ease of pressing the keys makes it a comfortable choice for long typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch are unknown, it may provide a smoother and quieter typing experience compared to the Firefly. Ultimately, both switches offer their own advantages and it's recommended to try out both to see which one suits your preferences better.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, you should consider your preferences in typing experience. If you value a quiet and light actuation with a hint of clickiness, then the Firefly switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a linear typing feel, then the Dustproof Red switch might be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to whether you prioritize a unique, quiet typing experience or a smooth, linear feel while typing.
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