Dareu Firefly vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Firefly and SP-Star Polaris Purple mechanical keyboard switches, there are clear differences in their tactile properties. The Firefly switch from Dareu offers a unique take on clicky switches, providing a quiet typing experience with a light actuation and a hint of clickiness. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch boasts a big tactile bump that offers an exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. While the Firefly switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Chirpy', the Polaris Purple switch is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, catering to those who prefer a lighter and quieter typing experience versus those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, it's clear that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting. However, the Firefly features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both keyboards benefit from the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials between the Firefly and Polaris Purple creates distinct typing experiences. The Firefly's nylon bottom housing enhances the depth and fullness of the sound when keys are pressed, creating a more immersive typing experience. In contrast, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and clearer sound profile, emphasizing the crispness of keystrokes. This highlights how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing feel and sound of a keyboard.
Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a keyboard plays a crucial role in shaping the typing experience. The split between top and bottom housings in switches like the Firefly and Polaris Purple means that the qualities of each material are distributed differently throughout the keypress. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when keys are released. Understanding the nuances of housing materials allows users to tailor their keyboard preferences based on the desired sound and feel for a more customized typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, we see a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Polaris Purple's actuation force is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Polaris Purple surpasses the Firefly with a medium-heavy force of 67 grams, compared to the Firefly's unavailable bottom out force. This means that the Firefly may provide a lighter typing experience overall, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Polaris Purple offers a more substantial push feel for those seeking a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Firefly and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of feel and feedback when using either switch. The travel distance of 4 mm for both switches ensures a consistent typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a shorter travel distance compared to other types of switches. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a consistent travel distance, making them suitable choices for those looking for a tactile switch with a shorter 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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 is unique in its sound profile, as it is described as "chirpy," giving it a distinctive squeak that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a "neutral" sound profile, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level suitable for various purposes. The Firefly offers a quiet and light actuation with a hint of clickiness, while the Polaris Purple provides a snappy sound profile with a big tactile bump for an exhilarating typing experience. Overall, users can expect a different auditory experience with each switch, with the Firefly being on the quieter side and the Polaris Purple offering a more pronounced typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is described as "easy-to-press," offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is described as "mild" and "polished," providing a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish for sleek key travel. The Polaris Purple offers a more approachable typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, suitable for users looking for a comfortable and smooth typing experience. Overall, users can expect a different tactile sensation with each switch, with the Firefly being easy to press and the Polaris Purple offering a polished and refined typing feel.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, it is clear that the Dareu Firefly and SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches offer distinct typing experiences. While the Firefly provides a quiet and light actuation with a chirpy sound signature and easy-to-press feel, the Polaris Purple offers a snappy sound profile with a big tactile bump and a mild, polished typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, users can choose between the unique qualities of each switch to enhance their overall typing satisfaction. Although they offer different characteristics, users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you are looking for a quiet switch with a light actuation and just a hint of clickiness, the Firefly would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a snappier sound profile, the Polaris Purple would be more appropriate. Additionally, if you value a smooth and refined typing feel, the polished finish of the Polaris Purple may be appealing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and desired typing experience.
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