Dareu Firefly vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Firefly and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Firefly is a tactile switch that provides a light actuation with a hint of clickiness, making it easy to press and chirpy without the classic clicky sound signature. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear is a linear switch known for its innovative semi-silent design that produces a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound. The Semi-Silent Linear offers a subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished feel that is silky smooth but not over-polished. Each switch has its own advantages, with the Firefly being ideal for those who prefer a quiet typing experience and the Semi-Silent Linear catering to those who seek a smooth and innovative 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, it is evident that both switches feature polycarbonate top housing. This choice of material serves to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clear and resonant sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. As such, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits from both switches due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, the key point of differentiation between the Firefly and the Semi-Silent Linear lies in their bottom housing materials. While the Firefly utilizes a nylon bottom housing, the Semi-Silent Linear also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is renowned for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a distinct typing experience when using these switches based on the unique qualities of their nylon bottom housings.
When considering how the top and bottom housing materials impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, it becomes clear that each component plays a crucial role. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when a key is released. By incorporating different materials for the top and bottom housings, manufacturers are able to provide users with a more nuanced and customizable typing experience. Whether it be the deeper sound produced by nylon or the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate, the housing materials of switches like the Firefly and Semi-Silent Linear contribute to the overall typing experience in distinctive ways.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences to the user. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Semi-Silent Linear's actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the Firefly does not provide information on the bottom out force, whereas the Semi-Silent Linear requires a heavier force of 62 grams to bottom out. This means that the Firefly may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Semi-Silent Linear offers a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Jwick switch the shorter option. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing experience. The Firefly switch offers a traditional 4 mm travel distance, providing a more familiar feel, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch with its shorter 3.7 mm travel distance may offer a quicker response time desired by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience - whether one prefers a deeper key press with the Firefly or a quicker response with the Jwick.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 provides a chirpy and unique acoustic signature with a hint of clickiness, setting it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, creating a more subtle sound profile compared to most switches. Both switches aim to provide a quieter typing experience, but the Firefly offers a slightly more distinct sound with its chirpy characteristic, while the Semi-Silent Linear creates a more neutral and subdued sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance during key presses. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience, suitable for a wide range of users due to its approachable characteristics. Additionally, it offers a snappy and buttery keystroke feel, as well as a polished finish for smooth and refined typing experience.
Overall, both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Firefly excels in providing a distinct chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, while the Semi-Silent Linear stands out with its subdued sound profile and gentle typing experience with snappy and buttery characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, but both are sure to deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a unique clicky feel without the loud noise, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch would be a great choice for you. Its light actuation force and subtle clickiness make typing a breeze while maintaining a quiet environment. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued sound profile with a silky smooth feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch might be more up your alley. With its moderate bottom out force and clacky bottom-out sound, this switch provides a comfortable and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound and feel, so consider your typing needs and environment when making your decision.
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