KTT Ash Gray vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Dareu Mahjong stand out as popular choices for enthusiasts. The Ash Gray switch is praised for its tactile response that strikes a perfect balance between being noticeable yet not overwhelming. On the other hand, the Mahjong switch is known for its unique green and white color scheme, lively sound signature, and effortless typing experience. While the Ash Gray switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Mild', the Mahjong switch falls under 'Bouncy' and 'Polished'. Each switch offers its own set of advantages, appealing to different preferences in terms of typing feel and sound. 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
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Dareu Mahjong, it is apparent that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of switches creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Mahjong's POK material boasts a smooth and clacky sound, with exceptional durability and wear resistance. Despite the slight differences in sound profiles, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their top housing materials.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Ash Gray and the Mahjong feature nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. This results in a duller and rounder sound, contributing to a satisfying typing experience. In this aspect, the similarities between the two switches are more pronounced, as both nylon bottom housings offer a similar sound profile and typing feel.
Overall, while the top housing materials differ between the KTT Ash Gray and the Dareu Mahjong, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their unique housing materials. The differences in sound profiles between the polycarbonate and POK top housings showcase the versatility of switch materials, catering to different preferences. Similarly, the use of nylon for the bottom housings highlights the importance of material choice in creating a satisfying typing experience. Whether it be the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of nylon, both switches offer durability and a smooth typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Ash Gray is also lighter at 53 grams, while the Mahjong's bottom out force is unknown. The Ash Gray provides a medium-light typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Mahjong offers a slightly heavier actuation force, which may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing feel. Both switches have their advantages, with the Ash Gray being lighter overall and the Mahjong potentially providing a slightly more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ash Gray for a faster response time, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Mahjong. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the tactile feel and responsiveness desired in a keyboard switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
The Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. This means that the sound produced by these switches will not be overly loud or distracting, making them suitable for both beginner and advanced users in various settings. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is praised for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a light and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Mahjong switch is also labeled as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users and has a polished finish for smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Ash Gray switch focuses on providing a light and crisp tactile feedback with a moderate sound profile, the Mahjong switch offers a bouncy and lively typing experience with a polished finish for smooth key travel. Ultimately, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience and cater to a wide range of users, ensuring that you will get similar satisfying results regardless of which one you choose.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a delightful blend of tactile feedback, then the KTT Ash Gray switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are intrigued by a unique switch with a lively sound signature and effortless typing experience, then the Dareu Mahjong linear switch might be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactile feedback and typing experience, so consider these factors carefully before making your selection.
Mentioned in this article
