Dareu Firefly vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Firefly and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro are two unique mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Firefly, a tactile switch, is praised for its quiet and light actuation with a subtle hint of clickiness, making it an ideal choice for those looking for an easy-to-press and chirpy switch. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro, also a tactile switch, provides a medium tactility with a light touch and a neutral sound signature, appealing to users who prefer a balanced typing experience with a stepped and neutral feel. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and Dareu Violet Gold Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for switches that will be used in conjunction with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the light to shine through. However, while the top housings are the same, the Firefly boasts a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound.
On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro also utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for that sharp and clear sound profile but pairs it with a nylon bottom housing to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The combination of the two materials results in a unique typing experience that offers both the crispness of polycarbonate and the depth of nylon. With the split between the top and bottom housings, users can expect a well-rounded sound and tactile feedback when typing on the Violet Gold Pro.
In comparing the two, while both switches feature similar top housings made of polycarbonate, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Firefly offers a nylon bottom housing for a duller and rounder sound, while the Violet Gold Pro uses nylon for a deeper and fuller sound. The choice between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While the Firefly may offer a sharper sound on key release due to the polycarbonate top housing, the Violet Gold Pro may provide a more satisfying bottom-out sound with its nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, the Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Violet Gold Pro's 45 grams. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force. This means that while the Firefly may require less force to trigger a keystroke, the Violet Gold Pro may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation force. The weight of the switches can determine how long one can comfortably type or game, with lighter switches being preferred for extended periods of use and heavier switches for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique advantages based on individual preference.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Firefly being the longer option and the Violet Gold Pro being the shorter option. Gamers may prefer the Violet Gold Pro for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Firefly. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 is often described as chirpy, offering a unique acoustic signature with a subtle squeak during key presses. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments and preferences. Whether you prefer a bit of chirpiness or a more subdued sound, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences that can enhance your overall typing experience, particularly when paired with different keycaps and keyboard configurations.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is lauded for being easy-to-press, providing a gentle resistance during key presses that requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force not only makes typing effortless and comfortable but also helps reduce finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch is described as stepped, offering a tactile experience that feels like it has two distinct stages. While not as pronounced as hyper-tactile switches, stepped switches provide a more moderate tactile feedback that can enhance typing accuracy and comfort for users who enjoy a more nuanced keystroke sensation.
Overall, whether you prefer the chirpy sound and easy actuation of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch or the neutral sound and stepped feel of the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, both options provide unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve. However, rest assured that regardless of your choice, you will enjoy a quality typing experience with either the Dareu Firefly or Violet Gold Pro tactile switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a light actuation with a hint of clickiness and a quiet typing experience, the Firefly may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactility with a light touch and a neutral sound profile, the Violet Gold Pro could be the ideal option for a balanced typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics, so choose based on what suits your typing style and preferences best.
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