Dareu Firefly vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and Everglide Tourmaline Blue offer unique experiences for users seeking different tactile feedback. The Firefly switch from Dareu provides a light actuation with a subtle clickiness, categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Chirpy', while the Tourmaline Blue switch immerses users in a deep and thocky sound profile, thanks to its lengthened single-stage spring and balanced spring weight, categorized as 'Buttery', 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Both switches have their own appeal and advantages, catering to different preferences in typing experience. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switches. However, the Firefly features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue uses a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains the sharp and clear sound profile seen in its top housing.
While the use of polycarbonate in both the top housing of the Firefly and the Tourmaline Blue yields similar results in sound profile and aesthetic appeal, the difference in bottom housing materials sets the switches apart. The Firefly's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the Tourmaline Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile consistent with its top housing. This difference in bottom housing materials highlights how the qualities of each housing material can impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback of a switch.
Ultimately, the decision between the Dareu Firefly and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feedback. While both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housing for a clear and resonant sound, the choice of nylon or polycarbonate for the bottom housing can significantly alter the typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound, understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help guide your decision.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, there is a significant difference in weight between the two. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, compared to the Tourmaline Blue's heavier 59 grams. However, since the bottom out force of the Firefly is unknown, it is difficult to determine how it compares to the Tourmaline Blue's 67 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Firefly more suitable for longer typing sessions, while the Tourmaline Blue may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the actuation force and bottom out force of a switch play a crucial role in determining the overall typing feel and user experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it can be noted that both switches offer a consistent tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes due to their similar travel distances. This means that whether you choose the Firefly or the Tourmaline Blue, you can expect a similar experience in terms of key travel, resulting in similar typing feel and response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of switch type and overall typing experience rather than the difference in 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 Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
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
When it comes to sound, the Firefly switch offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from traditional clicky switches. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences based on their design and construction, ensuring that users can choose the one that best suits their preferences.
In terms of feel, the Firefly is known for its easy-to-press nature that minimizes finger fatigue and enhances typing comfort. Similarly, the Tourmaline Blue switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Both switches provide a low-impact typing feel that is enjoyable for extended typing sessions, catering to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Firefly may appeal to those who enjoy a quieter typing experience with a light actuation force, the Tourmaline Blue provides a more immersive and satisfying sound profile with a bouncy feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that users can customize their typing experience to suit their individual needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a quiet and easy-to-press switch with a hint of clickiness, the Firefly may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a satisfying thocky sound profile and a buttery, mild typing experience, the Tourmaline Blue could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a light actuation force and minimal sound or a medium-heavy bottom out force with a more pronounced typing sensation. Choose wisely to enhance your overall typing comfort and enjoyment.
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