Dareu Firefly vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and Gazzew U4Tx RGB are two distinct options that cater to different preferences while maintaining a tactile feel. The Firefly, often heralded for its unique approach to clicky switches, offers a light actuation with a subtle hint of clickiness, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quiet yet responsive typing experience. This switch is particularly suitable for users who want tactile feedback without the intrusive sound that often accompanies traditional clicky switches. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB excels in delivering a luxurious typing experience, characterized by the deep "thock" sound when bottoming out and a sharp tactile bump that enhances every keystroke. With its refined sound profile and stealthy top-out, it appeals to gamers and typists who appreciate both auditory feedback and tactile precision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, we see distinct differences that influence both sound and aesthetic aspects. The Firefly features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which enhances the sharpness and clarity of sound produced when the switch is engaged and subsequently released. The polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant and dynamic illumination effects to shine through the transparent top. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB employs a proprietary Gazzew blend for its top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This specific material is less rigid than polycarbonate, contributing to a softer profile that yields a uniquely rich sound, positioning it more towards a warmer audio experience than the crisp tones provided by polycarbonate.
Turning to the bottom housing, both switches utilize materials that underpin their sound profiles. The Firefly is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice known for its absorptive qualities. Its softer nature ensures a deeper and fuller sound, effectively dampening noise and creating a rounder auditory experience when the key bottoms out. Similarly, the U4Tx RGB employs the same proprietary Gazzew plastic blend for its bottom housing, thus sharing the characteristic of subdued sound resonance. While the nylon enhances richness in the Firefly's output, the Gazzew blend of the U4Tx also provides a plush auditory response, indicating that both designs prioritize comfort and depth in sound.
Overall, the differences in top housing materials lead to varying acoustic results, while the bottom housing's softer materials—nylon in the Firefly and the Gazzew blend in the U4Tx—provide a shared foundation for a deep sound experience. Users can achieve contrasting sound signatures with these switches based on the unique properties of the top housings, where the Firefly's polycarbonate delivers clarity, and the U4Tx's proprietary material emphasizes warmth. Despite these top housing variations, the rich and resonant qualities imparted by the softer bottom materials in both switches ensure that users will likely find enjoyment in the tactile and auditory experiences offered, albeit through different sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch to the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we find notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Firefly has an actuation force of 40 grams, making it a relatively lighter option that may appeal to those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended use at work or during long gaming sessions. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB has an unknown actuation force but features a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This indicates that while we lack specifics for its actuation force, it’s likely designed to provide a more substantial typing experience compared to the Firefly. Therefore, for users who enjoy a firmer feel when typing, the U4Tx RGB would be the preferred choice due to its heavier bottom out force. In summary, the Firefly offers a lighter overall feel, while the U4Tx RGB leans towards a heavier, more tactile experience, particularly at the bottom out point.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in distance suggests that the Firefly offers a more pronounced and deeper keypress, which may appeal to users who prefer a hearty typing experience. In contrast, the U4Tx's 3.6 mm travel length caters to gamers and those seeking quicker responses with less key travel. While both switches cater to different preferences, those who favor a more traditional feel might gravitate towards the Firefly for its longer travel distance, while others may find the U4Tx's shorter travel provides the responsiveness they desire. Ultimately, your choice between these two tactile switches will depend on whether you prioritize a deeper feel or rapid actuation.
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 U4Tx RGB 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Firefly switch produces a unique "chirpy" tone, characterized by a subtle squeak that differentiates it from typical clicky switches. This acoustic signature allows for a quieter typing experience, making it suitable for environments where noise levels need to be kept in check. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches offer a deeper "thock" sound when bottoming out, combined with the muted nature of its top-out, resulting in a refined sound profile. While the Firefly has its distinct chirpy quality, the U4Tx RGB provides a smoother, more luxurious auditory experience that can also be quiet; however, specific descriptors for its sound profile beyond "thock" are lacking.
In terms of feel, the Firefly switch is noted for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a light actuation that makes typing feel effortless. This aspect significantly reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, enhancing overall comfort. On the other hand, details about the tactile experience of the U4Tx RGB are not specified. However, it is acknowledged to have a sharp tactile bump that contributes to a luxurious typing experience. While the exact qualities may differ, both switches aim to provide a satisfying feel tailored to a more comfortable user experience, albeit the specifics for the U4Tx RGB remain unclear.
In summary, both the Dareu Firefly and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches cater to users seeking tactile experiences, yet they excel in different areas. The Firefly stands out with its chirpy sound and effortless keypress, appealing to those who prefer a quieter, lighter actuation. Contrastingly, the U4Tx RGB offers a more profound sound and a tactile bump that may attract users looking for a richer, more defined feedback. Ultimately, both switches have unique qualities that can cater to various preferences, ensuring that newcomers can find a suitable option to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, it’s essential to consider your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance, the Firefly switch is an excellent choice. Its chirpy sound adds a unique character while remaining quiet, making it ideal for environments where noise control is essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feedback with a deeper "thock" sound and a firm actuation, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is more suited to your needs. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force will provide a satisfying tactile bump, enhancing your typing experience with a refined auditory profile. In summary, choose the Firefly when comfort and a light touch are your primary concerns, while the U4Tx RGB should be your go-to if you enjoy a pronounced tactile sensation paired with a rich sound.
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