Dareu Firefly vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Firefly mechanical keyboard switch offers a unique take on clicky switches, providing a subtle clickiness without the typical loud sound signature. Known for being easy to press and chirpy, the Firefly switch delivers a light actuation that appeals to those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch is designed to elevate your office environment with its innovative stem railings and discreet cutouts that reduce switch noise. Categorized as neutral, mild, muted, and subdued, the WS Silent Linear switch offers unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out without the use of silicone dampeners. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that make them appealing 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Firefly's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp, high-pitched sound, perfect for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more rounded and muffled typing feel. While both materials have their strengths, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference for sound and typing sensation.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Firefly and WS Silent Linear switches utilize nylon for a softer and more sound-absorbent experience. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing feel. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may still offer subtle differences in sound and feel based on their design and construction. Overall, the nylon bottom housing of these switches contributes to a smoother typing experience compared to switches with harder plastics.
In considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on switch performance, it becomes clear that the choice of material can significantly influence the overall typing experience. While the Firefly and WS Silent Linear switches differ in their top housing materials, their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing highlights the importance of material selection in achieving the desired sound and tactile feedback. Whether opting for the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Firefly or the fuller sound of nylon in the WS Silent Linear, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to individual preferences for typing comfort and sound aesthetics.
Weight
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, whose actuation force is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the WS Silent Linear switch has a heavier force of 63.5 grams, while the Firefly's bottom out force is unavailable. If both switches were compared based on the actuation force alone, typing on the Firefly would require a lighter touch than the WS Silent Linear. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the WS Silent Linear would provide a stronger push feel due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Firefly has a longer travel distance compared to the WS Silent Linear. The Firefly would provide a slightly deeper key press compared to the WS Silent Linear, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key feel. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear would offer a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers or those looking for a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for key feel 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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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 tactile switch offers a chirpy sound, which sets it apart with a unique acoustic signature that includes a subtle clickiness. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch provides a neutral sound profile that is muted and subdued, offering a quieter typing experience compared to traditional linear switches. The Firefly switch gives a lighter and more distinctive sound, while the WS Silent Linear switch provides a smoother and more tranquil typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Firefly switch is easy-to-press, offering a gentle resistance during key presses that requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear switch offers a mild typing experience, with a more gentle feel that is approachable to most users. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Firefly switch may be favored by those looking for a lighter and easier key press.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly switch provides a chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, while the WS Silent Linear switch offers a neutral, muted sound and a mild typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the two switches to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and can deliver a satisfying typing experience depending on the user's preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light actuation with a subtle clickiness and minimal noise, the Firefly switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, reduced noise, and a mild typing experience, then the WS Silent Linear switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and switch characteristics to fully enhance your typing experience.
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