Dareu Firefly vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and Gateron Type L offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Firefly switch is a tactile switch that provides a light actuation with a subtle hint of clickiness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is a linear switch known for its lightness and deep sound signature, offering a smooth and gentle typing feel. While the Firefly is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Chirpy', the Type L is described as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Feathery', and 'Easy-to-press'. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
The Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Type L both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components. The Firefly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Type L employs a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon. Despite these differences, both materials offer unique benefits - polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting as it is translucent, while nylon absorbs more sound to create a duller tone.
In terms of their bottom housing materials, both the Firefly and Type L utilize nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This softer plastic material absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound when typing on switches that use nylon. While the use of nylon for both switches' bottom housing may seem to suggest similar sound profiles, variations in the top housing materials will still influence the overall sound experience of each switch.
When considering how the different housing materials impact the overall sound profile of each switch, it becomes evident that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in shaping the typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Despite having different housing materials, both the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Type L offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with polycarbonate providing a sharper sound and nylon offering a fuller tone.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. The Firefly has a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Type L's 38 grams, making it slightly lighter to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Type L requires a force of 45 grams, while the Firefly's bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Type L may make it more appealing for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Firefly's actuation force may provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on individual preferences, with the Type L being lighter in force and the Firefly potentially offering a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you'll feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This makes them equal in terms of the travel distance experienced by the user. Whether you choose the Firefly or the Type L switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of the keypress feel and overall typing experience.
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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offers a chirpy sound profile that sets it apart with a unique acoustic signature, providing a light actuation with a hint of clickiness. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch delivers a more neutral sound profile with a subdued quality, veering towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, making a choice between them a matter of personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is characterized as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Similarly, the Gateron Type L switch is described as feathery, exceptionally light to press, and requiring little exertion from your fingers. This light actuation force also reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions for various purposes.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer different sound and feel qualities, they both provide a comfortable typing experience with their respective characteristics. Whether you prefer a chirpy sound profile with light actuation or a neutral sound profile with a feathery feel, both switches cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Firefly tactile switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a quiet and light actuation with a hint of clickiness, then the Firefly switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a light actuation force of 45 grams and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, then the Gateron Type L switch would be more suitable. Both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision.
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