Dareu Firefly vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Rose offer unique and distinct features for users to consider. The Firefly switch from Dareu is a tactile switch that provides a quiet typing experience without the traditional clicky sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a light actuation with a hint of clickiness. On the other hand, the KTT Rose is a linear switch that offers a progressive typing experience with its unique use of springs, providing a substantial yet not heavy typing feel. While the Firefly is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Chirpy', the Rose is described as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own merits and reasons why users may choose one over the other. 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
63.5g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and KTT Rose both use polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates clearer and more resonant sound characteristics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design of the keyboards. Both switches will provide a similar sound experience when typing, as they share the same top housing material.
On the other hand, the Firefly utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Rose's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch allows for a varied typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, both the Dareu Firefly and KTT Rose showcase the importance of housing materials in creating unique sound profiles for mechanical keyboards. While the Firefly offers a combination of polycarbonate and nylon for a more dynamic sound experience, the Rose focuses on consistency with polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing. Whether you prefer a crisper sound from polycarbonate or a fuller sound from nylon, both keyboards provide quality options for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific sound profile in their typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the KTT Rose linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Firefly has no specified bottom out force, while the Rose has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that the Firefly may provide a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions, while the Rose may offer a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and it ultimately depends on personal preference whether a lighter or heavier force is desired.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be noted that they provide a similar tactile experience despite their different switch types – tactile versus linear. The travel distance of 4 mm for both switches allows for a satisfying keypress while typing or gaming, ensuring a consistent feel across different types of switches. Overall, the travel distance of these switches contributes to their overall performance and feedback, making them both reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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 switch offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from traditional clicky switches, providing a light actuation with a hint of clickiness. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy raindrop sound, offering a mellow and substantial typing experience. The Firefly switch has a more chirpy and light sound, while the Rose switch provides a deeper and more bass-heavy tone.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is praised for its easy-to-press design, offering minimal resistance during key presses. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In comparison, the KTT Rose switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Firefly being easier to press and the Rose offering a polished and smooth feel.
Overall, if you enjoy a light and chirpy sound with easy-to-press switches, the Dareu Firefly switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and bassy sound with a more substantial typing experience, the KTT Rose switch would be a fantastic option. Both switches offer unique qualities that enhance the typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a light and clicky feel with minimal noise, the Firefly switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a unique bassy sound, the Rose switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a light and quiet typing experience (Firefly) or a medium-heavy and bassy typing experience (Rose). Consider your own typing preferences and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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