Dareu Firefly vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and Dareu Sky V3 offer unique experiences for users. The Firefly switch is a tactile switch that provides a light actuation with a subtle clickiness, perfect for those who want an easy-to-press and chirpy typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V3 switch is a linear switch known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, appealing to users who prefer a subdued and mild typing feel. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, making them suitable for a variety of typing tasks. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Firefly and the Dareu Sky V3 utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it perfect for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this material for their top housing, the differences lie in their bottom housing material.
In contrast, the Dareu Firefly features a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. The nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound during typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities as the Firefly. Despite having different top housings, the similarities in their bottom housing material suggest that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound depth and quality.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing. While both the Dareu Firefly and the Dareu Sky V3 share polycarbonate top housings for a sharp sound profile, their differences in bottom housing materials, nylon for both, make slight distinctions in sound depth and roundness. Despite these nuances, users can expect a consistent performance from both switches due to their use of similar materials for their bottom housings.
Weight
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch both have an actuation force of 40 grams, making them equal in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown, as it is not specified. In terms of weight, some may prefer a lighter switch like the Firefly for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the stronger push feel of a heavier switch like the Sky V3 for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their actuation force, but without knowing the bottom out force, it is difficult to determine which one may be lighter or heavier than the other. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation force when using either switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is identical, both measuring at 4mm. This means that users can expect a consistent experience in terms of key press depth when using either of these switches. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches makes them equally suitable for those who prefer a shorter key press depth compared to other switches on the market. Whether you opt for the Firefly's tactile feedback or the smooth linear action of the Sky V3, you can be confident that the travel distance will be the same, providing a consistent typing or gaming experience across both switch options.
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 Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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
Regarding sound, the Dareu Firefly switch is best characterized as chirpy, offering a unique acoustic signature with a hint of clickiness. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is known for its neutral sound profile, providing a moderate sound that is suitable for various typing preferences. The Sky V3 switch also has a subdued sound, producing a dampened sound when pressed. Ultimately, when it comes to sound, the Firefly will offer a more distinctive sound experience compared to the more neutral and subtle sound of the Sky V3.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a light actuation that enhances typing experience with low-impact key presses. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 switch provides a mild typing experience that is approachable and comfortable for most users. While the Firefly switch is designed for effortless typing and reduced finger fatigue, the Sky V3 switch offers a gentle typing experience without more pronounced characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly provides a chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, ideal for those seeking a unique sound signature and light actuation force. On the other hand, the Sky V3 offers a neutral and subdued sound, along with a mild typing experience that is comfortable for most users. Whether choosing the Firefly or Sky V3 switch, both switches from Dareu provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, catering to diverse typing preferences and offering a balance of comfort and precision in typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound. If you enjoy a light actuation with a hint of clickiness and a quiet typing experience, the Firefly switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a moderate typing feel that is approachable to most users, the Sky V3 switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. Choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
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