Dareu Firefly vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Firefly and the Jerrzi Violet mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note their distinct characteristics. The Firefly, a tactile switch, offers a unique take on clicky switches with its quiet operation and light actuation. On the other hand, the Violet, also a tactile switch, boasts a smooth actuation and a gentle tactility that provides a balanced typing experience. The Firefly is best suited for those looking for an easy-to-press switch with a hint of clickiness, while the Violet is ideal for those who prefer a stepped and neutral 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and the Jerrzi Violet both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a clear and resonant sound due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Firefly and the Violet utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will offer a unique typing experience that differs from switches with other housing materials.
The combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Dareu Firefly and the Jerrzi Violet splits the qualities of each housing material between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing can be felt when pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when letting go of a key. Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both switches offer unique typing experiences due to the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, the main difference lies in their actuation force. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Violet has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Firefly will require less force to register a keystroke compared to the Violet. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force. This means that in terms of bottoming out, the results will be similar for both switches since the bottom out force is unavailable for comparison. In terms of weight, the Firefly would be considered lighter than the Violet due to its lower actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on whether the user prefers a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions or a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Firefly has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Violet switch. The 0.3 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can affect the overall typing or gaming experience. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Violet switch, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Firefly switch. Both switches offer a decent amount of travel distance, but the slight variation could make a difference based on personal preference.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 is known for its chirpy nature, providing a unique acoustic signature with a subtle squeak that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various scenarios and preferences. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Firefly switch is praised for its easy-to-press design, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring low force to activate. This light actuation force not only makes typing effortless and comfortable but also reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, providing an overall enhanced typing experience. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switch is described as stepped, giving it a distinctive feel of having two stages in its tactile feedback. This differs from the more pronounced bump of hypertactile switches, offering a milder sensation with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Dareu Firefly and Jerrzi Violet tactile switches, it's clear that they cater to different preferences. The Firefly excels in providing a quiet and easy-to-press typing experience with a hint of chirpy sound, while the Violet delivers a balanced feel with a poppy tactile feedback and neutral sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If you enjoy a lighter touch and a more pronounced tactile bump, the Firefly may be the better choice. If you prefer a smoother actuation and a balanced typing feel, the Violet switch would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a light actuation and minimal clickiness, the Firefly may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth actuation with a gentle tactile bump, the Violet switch could be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Firefly's chirpy sound profile may be appealing, while the Violet's neutral sound signature may be more to your liking. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing comfort and efficiency.
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