Dareu Firefly vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Dareu Firefly, a tactile switch, and the Jwick Splash Brothers, a linear switch. The Firefly switch from Dareu offers a unique take on clicky switches by providing a quiet typing experience with a light actuation and just a hint of clickiness. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches boast a shorter activation and long pole stem for a smooth typing feel, along with a creamy sound signature. The Firefly switch is best suited for those who prefer an easy-to-press switch with a chirpy feel, while the Splash Brothers switch is ideal for those seeking a neutral, snappy switch with a polished touch. 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
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Firefly and the Jwick Splash Brothers feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. With similar top housings, users can expect a consistent sound quality and aesthetic appeal from both switches.
In contrast, the Firefly utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper sound profile. Both switches offer a different typing experience compared to switches with harder bottom housings.
Overall, while the Dareu Firefly and the Jwick Splash Brothers have differences in their bottom housings, the shared polycarbonate top housing ensures a consistent sound profile with sharp and clear tones. The choice between nylon and polycarbonate bottom housings will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel while typing. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique combination of materials that contribute to their overall performance and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Firefly has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the Splash Brothers has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Firefly has no information available, whereas the Splash Brothers has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is considered light. This means that the Firefly is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Splash Brothers is lighter in terms of bottom out force.
Considering the weight of a switch is important as it can impact the typing experience. Some users may prefer a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions, which would make the Firefly a suitable option. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Splash Brothers' lighter bottom out force may be more favorable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Firefly offers a bit more depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Splash Brothers. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Splash Brothers, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Firefly. Both switches provide tactile feedback, but the difference in travel distance may impact the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 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 is described as a "chirpy" switch, offering a unique acoustic signature with a slight squeak. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is described as having a "neutral" sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement. While the Firefly provides a quieter and more distinct sound, the Splash Brothers offer a more standard sound that is suitable for various environments. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Firefly switch is known for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force for activation. This results in a comfortable and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is described as having a "mild" typing experience with characteristics such as snappiness, bounciness, subtlety, and polish. This indicates a switch that offers a balanced and approachable feel, with responsive feedback and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly provides a quiet and light actuation with a hint of clickiness, while the Splash Brothers offer a creamy sound signature and a smooth typing feel with added features like snappiness and bounciness. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, both switches have their own strengths and are suitable for different users and environments. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, you should consider the specific qualities of each switch. If you value a quiet typing experience with a light actuation force and a hint of clickiness, the Firefly switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy sound profile coupled with a light typing feel and snappy responsiveness, the Splash Brothers switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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