Dareu Firefly vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Purple Click. The Firefly offers a unique take on clicky switches by providing a quiet typing experience with a subtle clickiness, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued sound profile while still enjoying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Purple Click is known for its high-pitched and satisfying click, offering a more pronounced tactility without being overwhelming. Both switches have their own advantages and cater to different preferences in typing experience. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Purple Click, it is clear that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This means that both switches will produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, users can expect similar results from both the Firefly and the Purple Click due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Firefly utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the Purple Click also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. This means that while the top housing of both switches is identical, the differences in bottom housing material may still result in a slightly varied typing experience between the Firefly and the Purple Click.
In terms of overall typing experience, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Purple Click ensures a blend of sharp, clear sound profiles with deep, full-bodied tones. The impact of each housing material can be felt when pressing down on a key and when releasing it, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound upon key release. Despite these differences in bottom housing material, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with both switches, thanks to the complementary qualities of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housings.
Weight
The actuation force of both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is 40 grams, making them equally light to trigger a keystroke. However, the key difference lies in their bottom out forces. The Firefly's bottom out force is unknown, while the Purple Click requires 55 grams of force to bottom out, which is considered medium-light. This means that the Firefly may provide a smoother typing experience with less resistance when pressing all the way down, while the Purple Click offers a bit more tactile feedback and a more substantial feel when bottoming out. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Firefly for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Purple Click for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual typing preferences and comfort levels.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, both switches offer a similar keystroke feel as they travel the same distance from top to bottom. This means that users can expect a consistent tactile experience with either switch. In terms of travel distance, there is no notable difference between the two switches, ensuring that users will get similar results regardless of which switch they choose.
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 KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches, adding a subtle yet distinct audio element to typing. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch provides a crunchy and resonant sound profile that is reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, offering a more immersive auditory experience. Both switches bring their own distinct sounds to the table, providing users with different options depending on their preferences. Ultimately, the Firefly switch is more subdued in its sound profile compared to the Purple Click, which is more pronounced and attention-grabbing.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Firefly switch boasts an easy-to-press experience that requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. This light actuation force enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch offers an invigorating and reactive feel, providing pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force for a more tactile typing sensation. The Purple Click switch also features a stepped design, offering a unique two-stage feel that sets it apart from other switches. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Firefly being gentler and the Purple Click being more pronounced and immersive.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly and KTT Purple Click switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences for users to choose from. The Firefly switch provides a quieter and easier-to-press typing experience with a subtle chirpy sound, while the Purple Click switch offers a more pronounced and invigorating feel with a crunchy and resonant click sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking to explore mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and options that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it really comes down to your personal preference and what you value most in a keyboard switch. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a light actuation force and just a subtle hint of clickiness, then the Firefly switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced click sound with a medium-light actuation force and a satisfying tactile feedback, then the Purple Click switch would be a great option. Consider your typing style, noise tolerance, and preference for tactility when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
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