TTC Brother vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offer distinct features catering to different preferences. The Brother stands out for its lightweight and breezy actuation, providing a satisfyingly crunchy sound that delights clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Mahjong's unique green and white color scheme and lively, poppy sound signature offer an effortless typing experience. While the Brother is praised for its tactile bump and easy-to-press nature, the Mahjong is appreciated for its bouncy and polished feel. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Dareu Mahjong, one noticeable difference is in the top housing material. The Brother utilizes polycarbonate, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Mahjong features POK material, which is smoother and more durable, contributing to a smooth, clacky sound. While both materials offer unique qualities, the polycarbonate in the Brother may provide a more resonant sound profile compared to the POK material in the Mahjong.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, both the Brother and the Mahjong use nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The nylon material in the bottom housing offers a classic feel and sound, making it a reliable choice for switch housings.
Overall, while the Brother and the Mahjong differ in their top housing materials with polycarbonate and POK, respectively, they share the use of nylon for the bottom housing. This similarity in bottom housing material allows for a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile between the two switches. The distinct qualities of polycarbonate and POK in the top housing contribute to different sound profiles, with the Brother potentially offering a sharper and crisper sound compared to the smoother and clacky sound of the Mahjong. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the two switches based on the sound profile they prefer.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but based on their actuation forces, it can be inferred that the Mahjong switch may have a heavier bottom out force as well. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Brother switch, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Mahjong switch with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and key response.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The slight difference of 0.1mm between the two may not be noticeable to most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper press may lean towards the Brother switch. Ultimately, both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to traditional options, providing a quick and responsive typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This auditory experience is sure to please fans of clicky switches, as each key press delivers a clear and precise click. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Brother clicky switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation. This lightweight actuation results in a comfortable and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the tactile bump of the Brother switch provides just the right amount of feedback without being overwhelming. On the contrary, the Mahjong linear switch is described as bouncy and mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The polished finish of the Mahjong switch contributes to a smooth and refined keystroke, enhancing overall typing comfort.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a crispy and tactile typing experience with a distinctive click sound, the Brother switch is an excellent choice. Alternatively, if you seek a more neutral sound profile and a bouncy yet polished typing feel, the Mahjong switch may be the better option. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and durability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider your preferences and typing habits. If you enjoy a light actuation force, a satisfyingly crunchy sound, and a well-balanced tactile bump, then the Brother switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lively, poppy sound and effortless typing experience, along with a smooth and refined finish for smooth key travel, the Mahjong switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you value most. Choose wisely to enhance your overall typing enjoyment and comfort.
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