Dareu Firefly vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon present two distinct options with their own unique characteristics. The Firefly, a tactile switch, offers a light actuation with a hint of clickiness, providing an easy-to-press and chirpy typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon, a linear switch, stands out for its buttery smooth typing experience thanks to its progressive spring and dry-lube design. While the Firefly caters to those who prefer a quieter typing experience with tactile feedback, the Sea Salt Lemon appeals to users seeking a low-pitched, neutral switch. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, while they share this common top housing material, the bottom housing materials differ between the two keyboards. The Firefly's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon also uses a nylon bottom housing, which provides a similar effect of creating a duller and rounder sound profile.
Despite the similarities in their top housing materials, the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon have slightly different bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of both keyboards offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, but the impact of the bottom housing material is felt more when pressing down on the switch. This means that the Firefly and Sea Salt Lemon will have a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing the keys. However, the top housing material will have more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key, potentially creating a slightly different auditory experience between the two keyboards.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon share similarities in their choice of polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharp and crisp sound profile. On the other hand, their nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller sound, with the impact of the bottom housing felt more when typing on the switches. While they may have some differences in their overall sound profiles due to their bottom housings, both keyboards are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience for users seeking a balance of sound quality and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, we can see that the Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Sea Salt Lemon's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Sea Salt Lemon is 53 grams, which is heavier compared to the Firefly's unknown bottom out force. This means that while the Firefly may require less force to initiate a keystroke, the Sea Salt Lemon provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Firefly may be the better option. On the other hand, those looking for a more tactile and forceful typing experience may prefer the Sea Salt Lemon. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is identical, with both switches having a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users can expect to feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Consequently, whether using the Firefly or Sea Salt Lemon switch, the typing experience in terms of travel distance will yield similar results. Therefore, there is no significant contrast in travel distance between the two switches, as they both offer the same amount of key travel.
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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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 with a hint of clickiness, creating a distinct acoustic signature. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more mellow and versatile typing experience. Both switches offer different sound characteristics that cater to individual preferences, with the Firefly being more unconventional and the Sea Salt Lemon more universally appealing.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and a light actuation force that promotes effortless typing and reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience with a middle-ground feel that is approachable to most users. Both switches prioritize comfort and responsiveness, with the Firefly excelling in lightness and ease of use, while the Sea Salt Lemon aims for a balanced and pleasant typing feel.
Taking all of the available information into consideration, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences with their distinct sound and feel qualities. While the Firefly stands out with its chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, the Sea Salt Lemon provides a more neutral and mild typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel, but rest assured that both switches will deliver satisfying results in their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a quiet and light clicky switch with a unique feel, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon would be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the sound and feel of the switch, as well as the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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