Gateron CM vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the Dareu Mahjong are two intriguing options to consider. The CM switch stands out for its full nylon housing, providing a richer and deeper sound signature compared to conventional polycarbonate housings. The impeccable factory lube job ensures a smooth typing experience, while the lengthened, dual-staged spring offers a bouncy feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Mahjong switch boasts a unique green and white color scheme that adds a touch of personality to your keyboard. Known for its lively and poppy sound signature, typing on the Mahjong switches is effortless and enjoyable. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and Dareu Mahjong both use different housing materials for their switches, with the CM utilizing nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Mahjong uses POK for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The Nylon material in both cases creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound. On the other hand, the POK material used in the Mahjong top housing is known for its smoothness and durability, being stronger and more shock-resistant than Nylon.
While both the Gateron CM and Dareu Mahjong switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the top housing material differs between the two. The top housing of the CM switch is also made of nylon, which contributes to a deep and full sound profile. In contrast, the Mahjong's POK top housing adds smoothness and durability to the switch, making it clacky and long-lasting. Despite the difference in materials, both switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience through their unique housing compositions.
In switches where the top and bottom housing materials differ, the qualities of each material are split between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing affects the sound when letting go of a key. This differentiation in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, with each part of the switch contributing its own unique characteristics to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it is evident that the CM switch is heavier in both respects. The Gateron CM has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium to heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The weight of a switch is important as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Dareu Mahjong for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gateron CM for a stronger push feel. Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force of a switch play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and feel for the user.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have fairly short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Mahjong switch with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Gateron CM switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 Gateron CM linear switch is characterized as having a deep, rich bassy sound profile with a thocky and low-pitched tone during key presses. This unique sound signature is achieved through the use of a full nylon housing and an impeccable factory lube job. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, with the CM offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Mahjong provides a moderate and versatile sound quality.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is praised for its buttery and frictionless typing experience, reminiscent of gliding smoothly with each keystroke. The polished finish of the switch, along with the factory lube job, enhances the overall typing sensation, providing a seamless and uniform feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a bouncy typing experience with spring-like feedback, giving keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Mahjong switch also boasts a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the CM focusing on a buttery and frictionless feel, while the Mahjong provides a bouncy and mild typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM stands out for its bassy and thocky sound profile, paired with a buttery and frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the Mahjong switch provides a more neutral sound profile and a bouncy, spring-like typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the deep, rich tones of the CM or the moderate, versatile qualities of the Mahjong switch to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches promise an effortless and smooth typing journey, catering to a range of preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force, a rich and deep sound profile with characteristics like bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, along with a buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience, then the Gateron CM linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, a lively and poppy sound profile described as neutral, and a typing experience characterized as bouncy, mild, and polished, then the Dareu Mahjong linear switch could be the better option for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and key characteristics.
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