Dareu Firefly vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Firefly and Wuque Studio WS Brown mechanical keyboard switches both offer unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Firefly switch is praised for its quiet actuation and light touch, providing an easy-to-press and chirpy typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Brown switch is celebrated for its harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation, offering a medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. While the Firefly switch appeals to those looking for a quieter typing experience, the WS Brown switch is favored for its fatigue-free typing and delightful auditory feedback. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Wuque Studio WS Brown, one key difference is the material used for the top housing. The Firefly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature. In contrast, the WS Brown features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This contrast in materials leads to distinct auditory experiences for users of each switch, catering to different preferences in sound feedback.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Firefly and WS Brown utilize nylon for this component. This similarity in material choice means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound feedback. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This commonality in bottom housing material may result in comparable typing experiences between the Firefly and WS Brown, with differences likely to stem from the top housing material used in each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience. While the Firefly and WS Brown may share a similarity in using nylon for the bottom housing, their contrasting choices for the top housing lead to distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Firefly provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the WS Brown delivers a deeper and fuller sound. These differences highlight how the selection of housing materials can impact the overall user experience and cater to varying preferences in sound feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there are significant differences between the two. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the WS Brown's unknown actuation force. However, the WS Brown has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Firefly's unavailable bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Firefly, while users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the WS Brown. Despite the differences in force, both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Firefly providing a lighter touch and the WS Brown offering a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the Firefly offers a slightly longer keypress. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Brown, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Firefly. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Brown comes in at $3.50 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 tactile switch offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches, providing a light and refreshing auditory experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch's sound qualities are not explicitly described, but based on its nylon housing and POM stem combination, it likely offers a more traditional and satisfying typing noise. Depending on personal preference, users may lean towards the quieter and distinct sound of the Firefly or the more familiar and comforting sound of the WS Brown.
In terms of feel, the Firefly tactile switch boasts an easy-to-press sensation, requiring minimal force for key presses. This light actuation force enhances typing efficiency and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the WS Brown tactile switch is praised for its medium-light actuation force, striking a perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. Users may appreciate the effortless typing experience provided by the Firefly or the harmonious feel of the WS Brown switches, depending on their typing preferences.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly and Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switches offer unique and desirable qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to consider. Whether you prefer a chirpy and light switch like the Firefly or a harmonious medium-light switch like the WS Brown, both options provide a delightful typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing sensation. Experimenting with both switches on different keyboards and keycap setups will help users determine which tactile switch suits their typing style best.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience with a light actuation force and a subtle hint of clickiness, the Firefly switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation with a medium-light actuation force for a balance of responsiveness and comfort, the WS Brown switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Consider trying out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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