Dareu Firefly vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Firefly, a tactile switch, to the HMX Jammy, a linear switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Firefly is praised for its unique take on clicky switches, offering a quiet typing experience with a light actuation and subtle clickiness. On the other hand, the Jammy stands out for its medium-weight switches housed in softer nylon, providing a muted yet satisfying typing feel. While the Firefly is known for being easy-to-press and chirpy, the Jammy's characteristics are not specified. Both switches have their own appeal and reasons for consideration. 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
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Firefly and the HMX Jammy, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon, regardless of the brand. Therefore, both the Firefly and the Jammy will likely have a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to the bottom housing.
In contrast, the Firefly features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Jammy utilizes a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer composition of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a different typing experience in terms of sound and feel compared to the Firefly's polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in the top housing of a switch ultimately comes down to personal preference. While the Firefly's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Jammy's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches will provide a unique typing experience based on the differences in their housing materials, with the Firefly excelling in clarity and resonance, while the Jammy offers a more mellow and round sound.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, it is evident that there is a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Jammy has a heavier actuation force of 57 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Firefly is unknown, whereas the Jammy has a medium bottom out force of 63 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Firefly, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Jammy for its heavier actuation force. In terms of weight, the Firefly offers a lighter option compared to the Jammy, providing users with different options based on their preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Firefly has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jammy. The Firefly's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a comfortable amount of depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Jammy's slightly shorter 3.7 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether you prefer a longer, more substantial press with the Firefly or a shorter, quicker press with the Jammy. Both switches offer their own advantages, so it's important to consider what feels most comfortable and efficient for your typing or gaming style.
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 HMX Jammy comes in at $3.49 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 is known for its chirpy nature, providing a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. In contrast, the HMX Jammy linear switch does not have a specific sound description available, leaving it to be determined based on personal testing. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, with the Firefly providing a quieter typing environment with a hint of clickiness, while the Jammy switches may offer a more muted sound depending on other factors such as keycaps and keyboard build.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is described as easy-to-press, offering a gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a comfortable typing feel. On the other hand, information on the HMX Jammy linear switch's feel is not available, making it difficult to directly compare to the Firefly switch. However, based on the information provided, it can be inferred that the Jammy switches with glittery nylon housings offer a medium-weight typing experience that is deeply satisfying.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and HMX Jammy linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Firefly is known for its quiet, chirpy sound and easy-to-press actuation, the sound profile and feel of the Jammy switches may vary depending on the individual's preferences and setup. In general, both switches provide a different typing experience that caters to various preferences, and choosing between them would depend on personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Firefly tactile switch or the HMX Jammy linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light actuation with just a hint of clickiness and a quiet typing experience, the Firefly may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch that offers a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, the Jammy could be the better option. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing needs and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Firefly and Jammy switches will depend on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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