KTT F2 vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT F2 and the Dareu Mahjong mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The KTT F2 switches are known for their distinct hollow sound signature and medium-light weightiness, providing a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switches stand out with their vibrant green and white color scheme and lively, poppy sound signature, offering an effortless typing experience. While the F2 switches are categorized as 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Subtle', the Mahjong switches are categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Dareu Mahjong, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to the overall sound experience of the switches. Additionally, polycarbonate is often used in switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Mahjong's POK top housing offers a different set of benefits, including smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. The POK material is known for its strength and wear resistance, making it a top choice for creating smooth, clacky switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the F2 uses polycarbonate for this component as well. This results in a continuation of the sharp, crisp sound profile associated with polycarbonate. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Mahjong utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the F2. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller, rounder sound that some users may prefer over the sharper sound of polycarbonate.
Overall, the housing materials used in the KTT F2 and the Dareu Mahjong switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While both switches feature polycarbonate for the top housing, the Mahjong stands out with its POK top housing material, offering smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. Additionally, the choice of nylon for the Mahjong's bottom housing results in a deeper, fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound profile of the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing. The differences in housing materials between these two switches provide users with distinct sound and feel experiences to suit their individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, we can see that the F2 has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Mahjong's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the F2 requires 53 grams while the Mahjong's bottom out force is unknown. Both switches provide a medium-light typing experience due to their similar actuation forces, but the F2 may feel slightly lighter during regular typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum in terms of travel distance, making them ideal for those who prioritize faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may find these shorter travel distances advantageous in competitive gameplay scenarios. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches is minimal and may not be noticeable to most users. Ultimately, whether you choose the F2 or Mahjong switch will depend on your personal preference for travel distance — with the F2 being slightly longer and the Mahjong being slightly shorter.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 per 10 switches.
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, both the KTT F2 and Dareu Mahjong switches fall under the category of neutral, offering a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most environments. The F2 switches have a more subdued sound signature compared to the livelier, poppy sound of the Mahjong switches. However, both switches provide a pleasant auditory experience, with the F2 switches offering a slightly more muted tone.
When it comes to feel, the KTT F2 switches are described as feathery and mild, providing a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switches are bouncy and polished, offering a more lively and elastic feedback sensation with a smooth and refined finish. Both switches fall into the category of mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Overall, the KTT F2 linear switches are known for their distinct hollow sound signature and medium-light weightiness, offering a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switches stand out with their lively, poppy sound signature and bouncy, polished feel. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the more subdued and feathery experience of the F2 switches or the bouncy and polished feel of the Mahjong switches. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience that is sure to enhance any user's mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the KTT F2 if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a lightly textured feel with a distinct hollow sound signature, and a switch that offers a neutral or subdued sound profile. The F2 is also ideal for individuals seeking a feathery, mild, or subtle typing experience. On the other hand, go for the Dareu Mahjong if you are drawn to its unique green and white color scheme, lively and poppy sound signature, and a bottom out force that is not specified. The Mahjong switch is suitable for those who prefer a neutral sound profile and desire a bouncy, mild, or polished typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between the KTT F2 and the Dareu Mahjong will depend on your preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for an enhanced typing experience.
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