Dareu Firefly vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Firefly and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile offer unique and contrasting experiences. The Firefly switch from Dareu provides a quiet typing experience with a light actuation and subtle clickiness, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing sound. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch from Wuque Studio delivers a tactile typing experience with a 70g bump, immersive resistance, and a satisfying "thocky" sound, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Firefly featuring a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, while the WS Heavy Tactile uses nylon for both its top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top housing of the Firefly creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiff nature, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the WS Heavy Tactile produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and resulting in a rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound characteristics.
When comparing the bottom housings of the two switches, it is evident that the nylon material used in both the Firefly and the WS Heavy Tactile contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a dulled, rounder sound upon bottoming out. By utilizing nylon for their bottom housings, both switches focus on enhancing the tactile feedback and overall typing experience for users. While the top and bottom housings may be different for the Dareu Firefly and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing emphasizes the importance of material choice in creating a specific sound profile and typing feel for mechanical keyboards.
In terms of typing experience, the top and bottom housings of a switch play integral roles in shaping the overall sound and feel of each keystroke. The qualities each housing material brings to the switch will be divided between the bottom and top of the switch, with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. By understanding how different materials such as polycarbonate and nylon affect sound profiles, keyboard enthusiasts can select switches that cater to their preferences for sound, tactility, and overall typing experience. Whether opting for the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both the Firefly and WS Heavy Tactile offer unique options for customizing the sound and feel of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that the Firefly is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams compared to the WS Heavy Tactile's 45 grams. However, the Firefly's bottom out force is unknown, while the WS Heavy Tactile requires a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Firefly may provide a lighter typing experience overall, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended periods of typing or gaming. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile offers a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier bottom out force, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push sensation when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, we can see that the Firefly has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Firefly's travel distance is longer by 0.8 mm compared to the WS Heavy Tactile. The Firefly's 4 mm travel distance falls within the more traditional range, offering a slightly deeper press, while the WS Heavy Tactile's 3.2 mm travel distance is shallower and may provide a faster response time for gamers. So, if you prefer a more responsive feel, the WS Heavy Tactile may be the better option, while if you prefer a deeper key press, the Firefly could be the choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance.
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 Heavy Tactile 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 switch offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. This switch provides a subtle squeak during key presses, creating a distinct auditory experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a variety of sound profiles, including clacky, high-pitched, and resonant qualities. These switches offer a sharp and percussive sound, giving a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Firefly switch is described as easy-to-press, offering minimal resistance and a light actuation force. This results in a typing experience that is effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue over extended use. In comparison, the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, with a bouncy and snappy feel. These switches offer a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming, creating a responsive and immersive typing sensation. Both switches offer a unique tactile experience that can cater to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly and WS Heavy Tactile switches each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly switch provides a quiet and light actuation with a hint of clickiness, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump and engaging "thocky" sound. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the chirpy and easy-to-press qualities of the Firefly switch or the clacky and sharp tactility of the WS Heavy Tactile switch for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing sensation for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Firefly tactile switch or the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light actuation force with a hint of clickiness and a quiet typing experience, the Firefly may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force, a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump, and a captivating "thocky" sound, then the WS Heavy Tactile switch might be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it is important to consider what type of typing experience you are looking for before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Firefly and WS Heavy Tactile switches will depend on your individual preferences and requirements for a mechanical keyboard switch.
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