Huano Elf vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Elf and the Dareu Mahjong present two compelling options for those who prefer linear switches. The Huano Elf is celebrated for its innovative POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and results in a deep sound profile combined with a medium-light feel, providing users with a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong switches stand out with their striking green and white color scheme and are known for their lively, poppy sound, alongside an effortlessly smooth typing experience. While the Elf offers a focused auditory depth that some typists may find deeply engaging, the Mahjong’s bouncy and polished nature caters to those seeking a more dynamic feel while typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
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
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
POK
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
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Dareu Mahjong exhibit remarkable similarities, particularly in their top housing made from POK (polyketone). Both switches utilize this advanced material, which is renowned for its low coefficient of friction at 0.04, making these switches some of the smoothest available on the market. Furthermore, the durability of POK is exceptional; it boasts wear resistance that is 14 times stronger than POM and superior shock resistance relative to other popular switch materials, such as Nylon and POM. Consequently, both the Elf and Mahjong switches contribute to a highly satisfying typing experience characterized by smoothness, clackiness, and long-term durability, which can be attributed to the shared properties of the POK material.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches employs nylon, a classic material known for its unique acoustic properties. With nylon being a softer plastic, it tends to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typed upon. The inherent characteristics of nylon lead to a more rounded auditory experience, which could enhance user comfort and typing pleasure. Although both the Huano Elf and Dareu Mahjong incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, the acoustic impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be uniformly observed in both switches, thanks to this shared material choice.
Ultimately, the interplay between these different housing materials results in distinct yet complementary qualities for both the Elf and Mahjong switches. While the POK top housing predominately influences the switch’s smoothness and acoustic signature upon release, the nylon bottom housing plays a significant role in shaping the sound and feel when the key is pressed. This division of responsibilities between the top and bottom housing means that while the specific tactile feedback might differ slightly due to the design or configuration of each switch, both share foundational material advantages that elevate the overall typing experience. Their similarities in top and bottom housing materials promise users a compelling combination of tactile satisfaction and sound quality, whether they choose the Elf or the Mahjong switch.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, the actuation forces reveal that the Elf requires a lighter touch at 42 grams compared to the 45 grams needed for the Mahjong. This difference makes the Elf more suitable for users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue. However, both switches have unknown bottom out forces, preventing a detailed comparison in that respect. Without concrete bottom out force values, we can't gauge the feedback experience of completely pressing down on each switch. Overall, if you're looking for a gentler typing experience, the Huano Elf would be the better option, while the Dareu Mahjong provides a firmer actuation for those who prefer more resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it is clear that the Elf has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mahjong measures a slightly shorter 3.4 mm. This difference means that the Huano Elf provides a bit more depth in each keypress, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong offers a quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, which could be beneficial for gamers seeking fast actuation. Therefore, if you prefer enhanced responsiveness, the Mahjong would be the appropriate choice, whereas those who value a more pronounced keypress might lean towards the Elf. In summary, the Huano Elf switch has the longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong switch is the shorter one at 3.4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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 Huano Elf linear switch has a deep sound signature that adds a rich acoustic presence to the typing experience. This could be attributed to its POK top housing, which is designed to enhance acoustics, resulting in a more resonant and satisfying auditory feedback. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch boasts a lively, poppy sound signature. This characteristic makes the typing experience feel energetic and engaging. While both switches produce distinct sound profiles, the Elf's deeper tones might provide a more substantial bass effect, whereas the Mahjong offers a brightness that might appeal to those who enjoy a more spirited keypress.
In terms of feel, the Elf switch offers a medium-light touch that strikes a balance between effortlessness and tactile feedback. This makes it suitable for users who prefer a comfortable typing experience without excessive force. On the other hand, the Mahjong switch is described as having a bouncy, lively feel, providing a spring-like sensation with each keystroke. Its mild nature means the typing experience remains gentle and approachable, while the polished quality suggests smooth key travel and reduced friction, adding to the overall refinement of the switch. Users looking for a more dynamic and energetic feedback may find the Mahjong more to their liking, while the Elf caters to those who favor a softer, yet still engaging feel.
In conclusion, both the Huano Elf and Dareu Mahjong linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences. The Elf leans towards a deep acoustic profile with a comfortable medium-light feel, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Mahjong's lively sound and bouncy feedback provide an engaging typing experience, complemented by a smooth and mild touch. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, you can anticipate that either switch will deliver enjoyable results, albeit in different tonal and tactile styles.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong switch, you should consider your specific typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a switch that provides a deeper sound signature coupled with a medium-light feel for a satisfying typing experience, the Huano Elf is an excellent choice. Its emphasis on acoustics makes it suitable for users who appreciate a more immersive auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, if you are leaning toward a lively and poppy sound profile with a bouncy and polished feel, the Dareu Mahjong switch might be more aligned with your needs. These switches offer a smooth and elastic typing experience, making them particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate a bit of feedback and responsiveness in their keystrokes. Therefore, if you favor a versatile switch that works well in both home and office settings, the Mahjong could be the better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be influenced by whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a balance of both in your typing experience.
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