Dareu Firefly vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Firefly, a tactile switch, to the Gateron Ink Red, a linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Firefly is known for its quiet actuation and light clickiness, making it a great option for those who prefer a tactile typing experience that is easy to press. On the other hand, the Ink Red stands out for its smoothness, lower actuation force, and satisfyingly crisp sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a linear switch with a light 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and Gateron Ink Red both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. While the Firefly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing known for creating a sharper and crisper sound, the Ink Red employs a proprietary INK blend top housing that offers a pointed and high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound. Both materials result in satisfying sound profiles, with the Firefly showcasing a more resonant quality due to polycarbonate's stiffness, while the Ink Red delivers a clacky sound that is characterized as thin and higher-pitched.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Firefly utilizes a nylon housing that elicits a deep and full sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. On the other hand, the Ink Red utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, providing a similar high-pitched and clacky sound as the top housing. While the Firefly's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, the Ink Red's INK blend bottom housing maintains consistency in sound profile with its top housing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing or gaming experience. Both the Dareu Firefly and Gateron Ink Red showcase unique combinations of top and bottom housing materials that cater to different preferences. Whether it's the sharper and resonant sound of polycarbonate in the Firefly, or the clacky and satisfying sound profile of Gateron's INK blend in the Ink Red, users can expect a distinct auditory experience based on the housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, it is evident that the Firefly is lighter in both aspects. The Firefly requires a gentle 40 grams of force for actuation, while the Ink Red needs a slightly higher 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Red is heavier, needing 60 grams compared to the Firefly's unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Firefly may be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ink Red for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, both switches offer different levels of force to cater to the preferences of various users.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity ensures that you will get a similar feel and response from both switches when typing or gaming. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, there is no distinction between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch.
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 Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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, providing a subtle and distinctive acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red switch has a neutral sound profile with a hint of chirpiness, making it suitable for various typing environments. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Firefly being quieter and the Ink Red offering a bit more audible feedback. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is described as easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance and requiring minimal force for activation. This results in a typing experience that is effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Red switch offers a silky smooth feel with a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. The polished finish of the Ink Red switch enhances smooth key travel and minimizes resistance, making typing a refined and enjoyable experience for users.
In conclusion, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and Gateron Ink Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly switch provides a quieter and light actuation experience with a hint of clickiness, while the Ink Red switch delivers a smooth and crisp typing feel with a moderate sound profile. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Firefly being ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience and the Ink Red offering a satisfyingly smooth and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a light actuation 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 prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience with a crispy and clacky sound profile, the Ink Red might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and preferences. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so make sure to choose the one that aligns best with your needs.
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