Dareu Dream vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Dream and the Dareu Mahjong mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Dream offers a very light linear option at an attractive price point, making it a top choice for enthusiasts seeking quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Mahjong switches stand out with their unique green and white color scheme, offering a lively and poppy sound signature along with an effortless typing experience. While the Dream is known for being easy-to-press and clacky, the Mahjong is characterized as bouncy, mild, neutral, and polished. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the Dareu Mahjong offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dream's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Meanwhile, the Mahjong's POK top housing offers a smooth and clacky sound with exceptional durability, appealing to users looking for a longer-lasting switch. While both materials have their advantages, their sound profiles vary, giving users the opportunity to choose based on their personal preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Dareu Dream and the Dareu Mahjong utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in material ensures that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality when it comes to the bottom-out sound. The nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that appeals to those seeking a quieter typing experience. Overall, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a comfortable and satisfying typing experience.
With the different top and bottom housing materials in the Dareu Dream and the Dareu Mahjong, users can experience a combination of qualities in their typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a unique feel when both pressing down on a key and releasing it. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when letting go of a key. This combination of materials provides users with a versatile typing experience that caters to a variety of preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Mahjong requires a slightly heavier 45 grams to actuate. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch when typing, the Dream would be the more suitable option as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, the Mahjong offers a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Dareu Mahjong has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dareu Dream. For those who prefer a quicker response time and a shallower feel when typing or gaming, the Dareu Mahjong may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more traditional and deeper keypress experience may find the Dareu Dream to be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile suitable for a wide range of users. Both switches provide distinct sound experiences, with the Dream offering a more crisp and bright sound, while the Mahjong provides a more moderate and versatile sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in an effortless and comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The Mahjong linear switch, on the other hand, is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a lively feel with key presses. Both switches fall under the category of mild switches, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Mahjong switch is noted for its polished finish, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, while the Dareu Dream and Mahjong linear switches offer different sound profiles and tactile feelings, they both provide quality options for enthusiasts seeking affordable and high-performing switches. The Dream switch excels in providing a light and clacky sound experience, paired with an easy-to-press and mild typing feel. On the other hand, the Mahjong switch stands out with its unique green and white color scheme, neutral sound profile, bouncy feel, and polished finish. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the Dream for a sharper sound and effortless typing experience, or the Mahjong for a versatile sound profile and lively tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer a great typing experience with their own unique characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a light and affordable linear switch with a smooth typing experience, the Dareu Dream switches would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a unique color scheme, lively sound signature, and a spring-like feedback sensation during typing, then the Dareu Mahjong switches may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for different preferences, so make your choice based on what characteristics are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
