Dareu Firefly vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Firefly and the Gazzew U4 mechanical keyboard switches, we find two tactile switches that offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. The Firefly, known for its light actuation and subtle clickiness, provides an easy-to-press feel with a chirpy sound profile. On the other hand, the U4 stands out with its sharp tactile bump and plush bottom-out sensation, offering a muted and low-pitched sound profile that is whisper quiet. Depending on your preferences, you may prefer the Firefly for its quiet and light typing experience or the U4 for its sharp tactility and unique sound profile. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 features a proprietary blend top housing known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the Firefly's polycarbonate top housing focuses on creating a more resonant sound, the U4's blend top housing aims for a fuller and more robust sound experience. Both materials cater to different sound preferences, with the Firefly offering a higher-pitched sound and the U4 providing a deeper tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Firefly uses a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the U4's Gazzew blend bottom housing. Both materials are softer plastics, but the nylon in the Firefly absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the U4's blend bottom housing contributes to the rich and deep sound profile of the switch. While the Firefly focuses on creating a more muted sound with its nylon bottom housing, the U4 aims to maintain a rich and resonant tone throughout the typing experience.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact with the overall sound profile of the switch, it is essential to understand their individual qualities. The bottom housing of a switch will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing the key. In the case of the Dareu Firefly and Gazzew U4, both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their different housing materials, catering to varying preferences for key feel and sound characteristics. Whether opting for the sharpness of polycarbonate in the Firefly or the depth of the Gazzew blend in the U4, users can achieve distinct typing experiences based on their housing material preferences.
Weight
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. The Firefly lacks information on its bottom out force, while the U4 has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it medium in comparison. The Firefly may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, while the U4 may be more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial push feel. Both switches provide different levels of force for actuation and bottom out, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Firefly has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4, which means that it may provide a more pronounced feeling when pressed. On the other hand, the U4's shorter travel distance might appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Firefly being on the longer side and the U4 being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a deeper press or a faster response.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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 offers a unique chirpy sound, adding a touch of character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound profile, ensuring a whisper-quiet typing environment. Depending on personal preference, the Firefly switch may be more appealing for those looking for a bit of whimsy in their keyboard sound, while the U4 switch caters to individuals seeking a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Firefly switch is designed to be easy to press, requiring minimal force for activation. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch offers a sharp tactile bump with intense feedback, providing a distinct and satisfying typing experience. Those who prefer a gentler typing feel may gravitate towards the Firefly switch, while the U4 switch caters to users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile response.
Overall, while the Dareu Firefly and Gazzew U4 switches offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches provide unique and desirable qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Whether opting for the chirpy and easy-to-press Firefly switch or the muted and sharp U4 switch, users can expect a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a very light actuation with a hint of clickiness and a chirpy sound profile, then the Dareu Firefly tactile switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush bottom-out sensation, along with a muted, low-pitched sound profile, then the Gazzew U4 tactile switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for the typing experience you desire, whether it be easy-to-press and light with the Firefly, or sharp and intense with the U4.
Mentioned in this article
