Dareu Firefly vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Firefly, known for its tactile feedback, provides a quiet typing experience with a light actuation and a subtle clickiness, making it a great option for those who prefer easy-to-press keys. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron boasts a linear design that focuses on silent typing with its self-padding mechanism and dual-rail structure, ensuring smoothness, stability, and reduced noise. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different types of users. 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Firefly utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile for the Firefly.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer a similar typing experience in terms of their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. The top housing material has a significant impact on the sound profile when pressing down and letting go of keys, providing a consistent feel and sound across both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a distinct sound when typing, enhancing the overall experience for users who prefer a crisper and more resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for those who enjoy RGB lighting integration in their keyboards.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° differ in their choice of bottom housing material, their shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. Both switches offer a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound thanks to polycarbonate's stiffness, providing a clear and resonant sound when typing. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Firefly or the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Zero Degree 0°, both switches offer a quality typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see that the Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Zero Degree's 45 grams. This means that the Firefly would require less force to register a keypress. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it hard to determine which would provide a more substantial typing experience when bottoming out. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Firefly for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier actuation force of the Zero Degree for a more pronounced keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Firefly offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a comfortable depth for typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those who prioritize quick response times and prefer a more shallow feel. Both switches are suitable options depending on personal preference, with the Firefly offering a longer travel distance and the Zero Degree 0° providing a slightly shorter one. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for key feel and response time.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch is known for its quiet and light actuation with a hint of clickiness, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is praised for its innovation in silent typing, offering unparalleled smoothness and stability with a soft, elastic feel that reduces noise.
In terms of sound, the Firefly switch is described as "chirpy," with a distinctive squeak that sets it apart. The Zero Degree 0° switch's sound characteristics are unknown, but it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Firefly switch is noted for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Zero Degree 0° switch is not available.
Overall, both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. If you prefer a quiet and light typing experience with a hint of clickiness, the Firefly switch may be the better option. On the other hand, if you value smoothness, stability, and noise reduction in your typing, the Zero Degree 0° switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a quiet and light tactile switch, the Dareu Firefly switch would be a great choice. Its easy-to-press feel and chirpy sound make it perfect for those who prefer a subtle typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness, stability, and noise reduction, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch would be more suitable for you. Its innovative design and soft, elastic feel provide unparalleled comfort and typing efficiency. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience when choosing between these two switches, and select the one that aligns best with your needs and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between Dareu Firefly and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches comes down to your personal preference and typing style.
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