Dareu Firefly vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Red Panda mechanical keyboard switches, we encounter two unique tactile experiences. The Firefly switch from Dareu offers a quiet and light actuation, providing an easy-to-press feel with a hint of clickiness, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing noise. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch by Outemu delivers a light-medium amount of tactility with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, giving it a thocky and mild typing experience. Both switches have their own set of characteristics that may cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Red Panda both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, despite both switches having polycarbonate top housings, the difference in their bottom housings can affect the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Firefly and the Red Panda use nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, and it absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience on each switch, as the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key.
Overall, while both the Dareu Firefly and Outemu Red Panda share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housing material between the two switches can affect the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Firefly's nylon bottom housing may provide a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Red Panda, which could result in a slightly different typing feel between the two switches. However, with both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings, users can expect a similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile when typing on either switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Firefly is lighter in both aspects. The Firefly has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Firefly's force is unknown compared to the Red Panda's measured 60 grams force. Those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming may lean towards the Firefly due to its lower actuation force, allowing for extended periods of comfortable use. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience may opt for the Red Panda with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Firefly offers a longer travel distance, providing a more traditional and deeper keypress feel. On the other hand, the Red Panda has a shorter travel distance, making it preferred by gamers for its faster response times. Both switches have their advantages - the Firefly for those who prefer a more substantial keypress, and the Red Panda for those who prioritize quick responses during gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for 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 Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches, giving it a distinct acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a thocky sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying, creating a different auditory experience for the user. While the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, users can expect a more subtle and light sound from the Firefly and a deeper, more pronounced sound from the Red Panda.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch offers an easy-to-press experience with minimal force required to activate the keys. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda switch provides a mild typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Both switches offer a different level of tactility, with the Firefly being easier to press and the Red Panda offering a more gentle typing feel.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the chirpy sound of the Firefly and the thocky sound of the Red Panda. Similarly, they can opt for the easy-to-press feel of the Firefly or the mild typing experience of the Red Panda. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience that caters to varying preferences, ensuring that users can find the switch that best suits their needs and enhances their overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a quiet and light actuation switch with just a hint of clickiness, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch would be a great choice for you. It offers an easy-to-press experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with medium tactility and a bassier, raindrop-like sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be more suitable for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, the Red Panda offers a mild typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would depend on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing feel.
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