Dareu Firefly vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and the Outemu Green, we see a distinct difference in their tactile feedback. The Firefly is a tactile switch that offers a unique take on clicky switches, providing a quieter experience with a light actuation and a hint of clickiness. On the other hand, the Outemu Green is a clicky switch that delivers a more traditional and pronounced clicky sound. While the Firefly is known for being easy to press and chirpy, the Green switch doesn't have any specific standout characteristics. Both switches have their strengths, but ultimately, the best choice will depend on individual 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
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and Outemu Green both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting as its translucency allows the light to shine through. However, while both switches share this feature, the Firefly's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Green's nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the Dareu Firefly and Outemu Green offer a unique typing experience due to the combination of their top and bottom housings. The impact of each housing material is split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key. This distribution of qualities allows for a more dynamic typing experience, where the feel and sound profile are influenced by both materials used in the switch housings. While the top housing's polycarbonate material may provide a sharper and crisper sound profile, the bottom housing's nylon material can offer a deeper and fuller typing sound.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Firefly and Outemu Green switches utilize a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials to create a unique sound profile for typing. The differences in bottom housing material between the two switches result in variations in sound response and feel, with the Firefly's nylon bottom housing providing a fuller sound compared to the Green's nylon bottom housing. However, the shared polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharp and clear sound profile for both switches, making them suitable for users looking for a unique typing experience with potential differences in sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that the Firefly has a lighter actuation force at 40 grams compared to the Green's 65 grams. This means that the Firefly requires less pressure to initiate a keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. However, the bottom out force for the Firefly is unknown, while the Green has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. This suggests that the Green switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force. For those looking for a lighter typing experience, the Firefly may be the better option, while those seeking a heavier feel may lean towards the Green switch.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, they both offer a similar tactile experience and feedback to the user. The 4 mm travel distance on both switches allows for a comfortable typing experience, providing a satisfying amount of keypress travel without being too shallow or too deep. Whether you choose the Dareu Firefly or the Outemu Green switch, you can expect a consistent and enjoyable typing experience with the same travel distance on both switches.
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 Outemu Green comes in at $3.10 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 unique and relatively quiet typing experience with a hint of clickiness, giving it a chirpy sound that sets it apart from traditional clicky switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided, but clicky switches are generally known for their crisp and audible click sound. Depending on personal preference, the Firefly switch may be more suitable for those looking for a quieter typing experience, while the Green switch is favored by users who enjoy the classic clicky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Firefly switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring light force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Green switch is not specified, but clicky switches typically provide tactile feedback and a noticeable actuation point, which can enhance the typing experience for some users. Those who prefer a softer touch may find the Firefly switch more appealing, while fans of tactile feedback may gravitate towards the Green switch.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch offer different sound and feel qualities that cater to varying preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Firefly switch provides a quieter and easy-to-press typing experience with a hint of clickiness, the Green switch delivers a more traditional clicky sound and tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you're looking for a quieter and lighter switch that still provides a hint of clickiness, the Firefly may be the right choice for you. Its easy-to-press feel and chirpy sound make it a suitable option for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier typing experience with a traditional clicky sound, the Outemu Green switch with its 80-gram bottom out force may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you desire.
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