KTT Cream Yellow vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow and Dareu Mahjong mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer unique characteristics for typing enthusiasts. The Cream Yellow is recognized for its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. Additionally, its lengthened spring contributes to a bouncy typing feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switches stand out with their green and white color scheme, offering a lively and poppy sound signature along with a smooth and effortless typing experience. The Mahjong switches are categorized as bouncy, mild, neutral, and polished, providing a versatile typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 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
The KTT Cream Yellow and the Dareu Mahjong both feature top housings made of durable materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, crisper sound profile, perfect for those looking for a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Mahjong's POK top housing offers a smooth and clacky typing experience, with exceptional durability and wear resistance. While both materials provide unique benefits, they ultimately cater to different preferences in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, both the Cream Yellow and the Mahjong utilize nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a more tactile typing experience. With both switches using nylon bottom housings, users can expect a similar sound and feel when typing on either the Cream Yellow or the Mahjong. This consistency in material choice for the bottom housing ensures a familiar experience for those who appreciate the qualities of nylon in their switches.
In terms of overall performance and durability, the Cream Yellow's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings provides a unique balance of sharpness and depth in sound profile. Meanwhile, the Mahjong's POK top housing and nylon bottom housing offer a smooth and clacky typing experience with exceptional wear resistance and shock resistance. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound profile and feel, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile with the Cream Yellow or a smoother typing experience with the Mahjong, both switches offer distinct qualities that appeal to different users.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch reveals some differences. The Cream Yellow has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Mahjong's 45 grams, making the Cream Yellow slightly lighter to press. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires 58 grams while the Mahjong's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Cream Yellow provides a more consistent typing experience in terms of force required throughout the keystroke, while the Mahjong's force for bottoming out is uncertain. Overall, the Cream Yellow can be seen as the heavier option in terms of bottom out force, while the Mahjong's force remains unknown. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the Cream Yellow offers a slightly deeper feel compared to the Mahjong. If you prefer a more responsive key press, the Cream Yellow might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly shallower feel, the Mahjong could be the way to go. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, and both can provide similar results depending on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the Cream Yellow linear switch offers a clacky and sharp sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem design. On the other hand, the Mahjong linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, both the Cream Yellow and Mahjong switches are described as bouncy, providing a lively typing experience with a sense of rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Mahjong switch is noted for its mild and polished characteristics, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whether you prefer a more pronounced typing sensation or a smoother feel, both switches have their own unique qualities to offer.
Overall, the Cream Yellow and Mahjong linear switches both excel in providing a bouncy and responsive typing experience. While the Cream Yellow may offer a sharper clacky sound, the Mahjong switch is more versatile in its sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preference in sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a quality mechanical keyboard experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lively, poppy sound signature and effortless typing experience, along with a polished feel, then the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is the one you should go for. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when deciding between the two. Ultimately, you can't go wrong with either choice as both switches offer a high-quality typing experience.
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