Dareu Firefly vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Firefly and the Akko Penguin mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct approaches to tactile switches. The Firefly switch offers a unique take on clicky switches with a quiet actuation and a hint of clickiness, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Penguin switch by Akko is designed for silent tactile feedback, making it perfect for office environments where noise reduction is a priority. With its rounded tactile bump and medium weight, the Penguin strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort during prolonged typing sessions. 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
43g
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
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Akko Penguin, we see that both keyboards utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer quality that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon in their bottom housing. However, the Firefly uses a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is also beneficial for RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize their keyboard aesthetic.
On the other hand, the Akko Penguin features a nylon top housing, which again creates a deeper and fuller sound profile like its bottom housing. The softer quality of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Firefly. While both keyboards utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the difference in top housing material leads to distinct sound profiles for each keyboard. The split qualities between the bottom and top housing manifest in how the keyboard feels and sounds when keys are pressed and released.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Firefly and the Akko Penguin, the use of nylon in both keyboards' bottom housing results in a similar typing experience in terms of sound. Both keyboards offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer quality of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. However, the choice of polycarbonate for the Firefly's top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, with the added benefit of translucency for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Penguin's nylon top housing leads to a sound that is duller and rounder, emphasizing the impact that housing material can have on the overall typing experience and sound quality of a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, the actuation force is lighter in the Firefly at 40 grams compared to the Penguin at 43 grams. The Firefly also has an unknown bottom out force, while the Penguin has a medium bottom out force of 60 grams. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Firefly and a more substantial push feel with the Penguin. Some may prefer the Firefly for longer typing sessions due to its lighter actuation force, while others may prefer the Penguin for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Firefly offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Penguin provides a shallower experience. Gamers may prefer the Penguin for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Firefly. Both switches offer different tactile feedback based on their travel distance, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming 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 Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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 switch has a unique "chirpy" characteristic that sets it apart from other switches, providing a light and distinctive sound. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch offers a more "muted" sound profile, making it ideal for quiet environments like offices. The Firefly switch may be more suitable for individuals who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback during typing, while the Penguin switch caters to those who prefer a softer and more discreet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is described as "easy-to-press," offering minimal resistance and making typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch is characterized as "polished," providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Firefly switch's light actuation force enhances typing comfort, while the Penguin switch's balanced tactile bump ensures a satisfying feedback without causing fatigue during prolonged typing sessions.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Dareu Firefly and Akko Penguin switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly switch provides a unique chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, ideal for those who prefer a lighter tactile experience with a hint of clickiness. Meanwhile, the Penguin switch offers a muted sound profile and polished feel, perfect for those looking for a quiet and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and typing environments, so choosing between them would depend on individual preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and noise level. If you prefer a very light and easy-to-press switch with a subtle and chirpy sound, then the Firefly switch may be the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a polished and mild feel, along with a muted and neutral sound profile, then the Akko Penguin switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your choice should be based on what type of typing experience and sound profile you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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