Dareu Firefly vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence the typing experience, and two noteworthy options are the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch. The Firefly switch offers users a unique twist on traditional clicky switches, delivering a quiet yet responsive feel with a light actuation and a hint of clickiness, perfect for those who appreciate tactile feedback without the typical loud sound associated with many clicky options. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch emphasizes smoothness and consistency, featuring a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem that provides a subtly deep sound profile—ideal for gamers or typists seeking an uninterrupted flow without any tactile bump or click. Each switch has its own charm: the Firefly caters to those who enjoy a whisper-soft experience with a touch of feedback, while the SU appeals to users favoring seamless keystrokes free from interruption. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the HMX SU switches, we notice a significant difference in the materials used for their top housings, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The Firefly employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for its stiffness and translucency. This choice enhances the acoustic properties, producing a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The clear nature of polycarbonate also allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, making it aesthetically appealing for those who prioritize visuals in addition to acoustic performance. In contrast, the HMX SU utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic choice in switch design. Nylon, being a softer plastic, tends to absorb sound more effectively and consequently results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, while both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, they diverge in the top housing, leading to distinct auditory experiences.
The bottom housings of both the Firefly and the HMX SU switches are made of nylon, which produces a similar acoustic characteristic, thus creating a uniformity in the auditory experience when the switch is bottomed out. As nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties, both switches will provide a duller and rounder sound when keys are fully pressed. This similarity indicates that while the top housing materials provide distinct sound profiles, the bottom housing contributes significantly to the overall sound produced during key presses. The combined effect is one where the bottoms of both switches provide the foundational sound consistency despite their differing top housing materials.
Ultimately, while the Dareu Firefly and the HMX SU have diverging top housing materials that lead to contrasting acoustics, their shared nylon bottom housing unifies their sound experience during key presses. The polycarbonate Firefly guarantees a crisper release sound, while the nylon HMX SU underscores a fuller and more muted press sound. Users can expect a unique tactile result depending on the top housing material, while the underlying commonality of nylon ensures that both switches deliver satisfying audio feedback when engaged. Thus, while they have different aesthetic appeals and sound signatures, the combination of materials ultimately shapes how users perceive their functionality in practice.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, the differences in actuation forces offer insight into their performance characteristics. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the HMX SU requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions might gravitate towards the Firefly. In contrast, the HMX SU, with its heavier actuation force, provides a more substantial push feel, appealing to those who enjoy a firmer touch when typing. Additionally, the HMX SU has a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating the force required to press the switch all the way down, while the bottom out force for the Firefly remains unknown. Thus, while the Firefly offers a lighter actuation force, the HMX SU combines a heavier feel with a measurable bottom out force, catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, it is clear that the Firefly offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the SU has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This 0.4 mm difference means that users who favor a more responsive experience, such as gamers, may lean towards the HMX SU for its quicker actuation. Conversely, those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke and a satisfying depth may prefer the Firefly, which aligns with traditional preferences for tactile feedback. Thus, while the Firefly is suited for those who enjoy a richer typing experience, the SU's shorter travel distance caters to users seeking fast response times in their performance.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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
The sound characteristics of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch present a unique auditory experience. It is defined by a chirpy quality that lends itself a slight squeak upon actuation rather than an overwhelming click, providing a subtle yet noticeable feedback. This makes it quieter than traditional clicky switches, while still offering a hint of engagement that can be satisfying for users who enjoy audible confirmation without excessive noise. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch has an undefined sound profile, meaning its acoustic qualities might not stand out in the same distinctive way as the Firefly. However, users might appreciate its deeper, more subdued sound which delivers an enjoyment that doesn’t draw too much attention, potentially making it suitable for quieter environments.
When considering the feel of each switch, the Firefly excels in providing a remarkably easy-to-press experience. The light actuation force required minimizes resistance during typing, promoting a comfortable engagement that reduces finger fatigue, making it excellent for long typing sessions. This effortless tactile response can significantly enhance typing productivity by facilitating smooth keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch does not have established descriptors regarding its feel, leaving potential users without concrete information in this area. However, linear switches typically offer a smooth and consistent actuation without any tactile bump, which might appeal to those who prefer a uniform typing experience.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch stands out for its unique chirpy sound and the ease of actuation it offers, making it an appealing option for individuals seeking a quiet yet satisfying typing experience. While the HMX SU linear switch has a more muted sound profile and lacks detailed feedback on its feel, its deep sound may find favor among those who prefer a more understated keyboard experience. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences, users can expect the Firefly to deliver a more distinct auditory environment and an effortless typing feel compared to the more subdued, yet still enjoyable, potential of the HMX SU.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and intended usage scenarios. If you prefer a quieter typing experience that incorporates a unique tactile element with a light actuation force, the Firefly is an excellent choice. Its "chirpy" sound profile and easy-to-press design make it suitable for long typing sessions, especially in environments where noise reduction is key, like office settings. Conversely, if you enjoy a deeper sound signature and don’t mind a slightly higher bottom-out force, the HMX SU linear switch is ideal for those who favor a more traditional linear feel and a satisfying keystroke. This switch is great for both gaming and typing, where a more pronounced sound profile can enhance the engagement of your experience. In essence, choose the Firefly for a more gentle, quieter touch, and go with the SU for a robust, deeper sound experience.
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