Dareu Firefly vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Dareu Firefly and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear. The Dareu Firefly offers a unique tactile experience with its light actuation and subtle clickiness, making it an ideal choice for those looking for an easy-to-press and chirpy switch. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear from Wuque Studio provides a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with its linear design and well-lubricated POM stem. Additionally, the transparent housing of the Aurora Clear allows for vibrant RGB lighting customization. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to their stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, making them ideal for users who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design.
On the other hand, the Firefly utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the WS Aurora Clear's UHWMPE bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to users looking for a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the UHWMPE material used in the WS Aurora Clear's bottom housing is relatively new and offers a bright sound signature, providing resonant clacks when typing on switches with this type of housing.
While the top and bottom housings of the Dareu Firefly and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear differ in material, each housing brings unique qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of the sound profile and typing experience each housing material provides.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it is evident that the Firefly is lighter in both aspects. The Firefly has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the WS Aurora Clear has an actuation force of 53 grams, making the Firefly the lighter option. Additionally, the Firefly does not provide information on its bottom out force, while the WS Aurora Clear has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In terms of user preference, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Dareu Firefly, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the WS Aurora Clear with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, selecting the right switch depends on personal preference and typing style, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Firefly's travel distance is slightly longer than the WS Aurora Clear's, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the WS Aurora Clear with its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial tactile feel may prefer the Dareu Firefly. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their travel distances, providing differing experiences for users depending on their preferences.
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 Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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 subtle squeak to each keystroke that sets it apart from traditional clicky switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch produces a high-pitched and crisp sound, providing a sharp typing experience that may appeal to those who prefer a brighter sound profile. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience, with the Firefly being on the quieter side and the WS Aurora Clear delivering a more vibrant sound.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. This can reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions and provide a low-impact typing feel. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and uniform. Additionally, its mild and polished qualities ensure a gentle typing sensation that is approachable to most users. Both switches offer a refined and smooth typing experience, with the Firefly being more responsive and the WS Aurora Clear being more fluid.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Firefly offers a quieter and easy-to-press typing experience with a hint of clickiness, the WS Aurora Clear provides a high-pitched and buttery smooth keystroke that is approachable and polished. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring a satisfying and customizable typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between these switches will come down to individual preference for sound profile and typing sensation.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a light actuation with a hint of clickiness and minimal resistance, the Firefly switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with minimal friction and maximum RGB lighting customization, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the specific characteristics that will enhance your overall typing experience.
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