Dareu Firefly vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Firefly and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Firefly is praised for its quiet operation and light actuation, providing a gentle clickiness without the traditional loud sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch boasts a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile for a satisfying typing experience. While the Firefly is labeled as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Chirpy', the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is categorized as 'Bouncy'. Both switches offer their own advantages depending on individual 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
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the Firefly's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound when typing.
Despite both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, the differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Firefly's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. This split in housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Each material brings unique qualities to the typing experience based on its stiffness and sound absorption capabilities.
Overall, the choice between the Dareu Firefly and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Firefly's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a balance of sharpness and depth in sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's consistent use of polycarbonate provides a consistent sharp and clear sound. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that they have significant differences. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Shadow's 48 grams, making the Firefly more responsive to keystrokes. However, the bottom out force of the Shadow is 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Firefly, whose bottom out force is unknown. The Firefly is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as during work or long gaming sessions, while the Shadow is better suited for users who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that both switches provide the user with a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. As a result, regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect to get consistent results in terms of key 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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
Overall, when comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, the Firefly offers a quieter sound profile with a light actuation and a hint of clickiness, appealing to those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a medium level of tactility with lower actuation and bottom-out force, giving users a deep and thocky sound profile along with a bouncy feel during typing. Depending on personal preferences, the Firefly may be more suitable for those seeking a gentle and easy-to-press typing experience, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch caters to individuals looking for a more lively and responsive feedback sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you value a quiet typing experience with a hint of clickiness and easy-to-press keys, the Firefly may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, thocky sound profile and a bouncy, spring-like feedback sensation, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch might be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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