Dareu Firefly vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and SP-Star RedBlue offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Firefly switch from Dareu provides a tactile typing experience without the traditional loud clicky sound, making it ideal for those looking for a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches offer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, appealing to users who prefer a medium-light typing feel. 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
57g
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 RedBlue, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material. The Firefly features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, the Firefly and RedBlue switches share similarities in their top housing material. Both using polycarbonate, they both exhibit the same qualities of creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This consistency in material choice means that users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and performance when pressing down on the keys. However, the impact of the bottom housing material becomes apparent when bottoming out a key, with the Firefly's nylon providing a deeper sound compared to the RedBlue's polycarbonate.
In essence, the choice of housing materials in the Dareu Firefly and the SP-Star RedBlue plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. While both switches benefit from the qualities of polycarbonate in their top housing, the difference in bottom housing material gives each switch its unique sound signature. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a more resonant sound profile, while the softer nylon in the bottom housing of the Firefly offers a deeper and fuller typing experience. Ultimately, users have the option to choose based on their preference for sound profile and key feel.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, we can see that the Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the RedBlue, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the RedBlue has a heavier bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Firefly's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Firefly would be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions, while the RedBlue would be more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches provide different typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch and SP-Star RedBlue linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity allows for consistent typing experiences across both switches. However, it is worth noting that the Firefly switch is a tactile switch, providing a tactile bump during actuation, while the RedBlue switch is a linear switch, providing a smooth keystroke without the tactile feedback. Overall, while the travel distance is the same for both switches, the typing experience will differ based on the tactile feedback provided.
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 RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 switch offers a unique chirpy sound with a hint of clickiness, making it stand out from other clicky switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch provides a low-pitched sound profile with a thocky quality, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when typing. The sound of both switches is influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, but overall, the Firefly leans towards a lighter and chirpier sound, while the RedBlue delivers a deeper and more satisfying thocky sound.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, giving users a gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended usage. In comparison, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that provides a sleek typing feel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Firefly leaning towards a more effortless and low-impact feel, while the RedBlue provides a gentle and approachable typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Firefly provides a chirpy and easy-to-press experience, the RedBlue delivers a low-pitched thocky sound with a mild and polished typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the unique characteristics of the Firefly or the more traditional yet refined qualities of the RedBlue switch. Ultimately, both switches offer satisfying results for users looking for a premium mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a quiet switch with a light actuation force and a hint of clickiness, then the Firefly switch would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, then the RedBlue linear switch might be more suitable. Consider the characteristics of each switch in terms of sound and feel to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
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