TTC Flaming Pink vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flaming Pink and the Dareu Mahjong both stand out as exceptional linear options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Flaming Pink switches are renowned for their smooth and responsive feel, complemented by a satisfying bottom-out sound that strikes a balance between enjoyable auditory feedback and a premium typing experience, making them ideal for both gaming enthusiasts and everyday typists alike. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong switches showcase a distinctive green and white aesthetic and provide a lively, poppy sound profile, delivering an effortless typing experience that many users find appealing. While the Flaming Pink leans toward a straightforward and refined auditory experience, the Mahjong switches bring a bit more personality with their unique sound signature. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink and the Dareu Mahjong demonstrate a fascinating interplay of characteristics that affect the overall performance and sound profile of their switches. The Flaming Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This property contributes to a crisper auditory experience, making polycarbonate an ideal material for those seeking pronounced sound effects, particularly in setups featuring RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing. While POK is recognized for its smoothness and durability—with a better wear resistance compared to POM—the sound profile it delivers is also clacky and refined, suggesting that both materials are geared toward achieving quality acoustic results, albeit through different approaches.
Both switches, however, share a commonality in their bottom housing material: nylon. This classic choice is consistent across both models, leading to a deeper and richer sound profile. Nylon's softer nature helps to absorb sound, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory feedback when typing. This similarity in the bottom housing ensures that while the top housing may offer differing sound characteristics, the overall sonic output will still carry the familiar depth afforded by nylon. Thus, whether utilizing the sharper sound from polycarbonate or the smooth quality from POK, the underlying nylon heating remains a significant factor in creating a fuller experience, especially on bottom-out sound.
In conclusion, while the TTC Flaming Pink and the Dareu Mahjong differ in their top housing materials—polycarbonate and POK, respectively—their use of nylon for the bottom housing ties them together in producing sound profiles that vary in pitch and clarity while maintaining a common depth and fullness. This means that users can expect a richer auditory experience thanks to the nylon’s sound absorption properties, regardless of the top housing material chosen. The combination of these varying materials demonstrates how manufacturers can create different tactile and auditory experiences while still harnessing the classic qualities of nylon in the bottom chassis of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch with the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, notable differences in actuation force can be observed. The Flaming Pink requires a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who favor a lighter feel, especially during extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Mahjong has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Mahjong is currently unknown, making it difficult to assess its overall resistance. Meanwhile, the Flaming Pink's bottom out force is measured at 50 grams, clearly indicating its tendency to provide a softer landing compared to an unspecified bottom out for the Mahjong. In summary, with the Flaming Pink being the lighter option overall due to its lower actuation force and defined bottom out, it caters to users seeking ease and comfort, while the Mahjong may cater to those who enjoy a heavier keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Pink and the Dareu Mahjong linear switches, it becomes clear that their specifications differ slightly. The Flaming Pink switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is longer than the Mahjong switch's travel distance of 3.4 mm. This 0.2 mm difference means that the Flaming Pink offers a slightly deeper feel, potentially catering to users who prefer more substantial keystrokes for an enhanced typing experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Mahjong may appeal to gamers and those who favor quick response times, as it allows for faster key presses. Ultimately, your choice may depend on your preference for either quickness and responsiveness or a more traditional, hearty depth in your key switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Flaming Pink switch and the Dareu Mahjong switch, each brings its own character to the keyboard experience. The Flaming Pink switch has a bright yet not overly loud sound profile, striking a balance that makes it suitable for both gaming and everyday tasks without being distracting. In contrast, the Mahjong switch features a lively, poppy sound signature, which adds an engaging auditory layer to typing. While both switches intend to provide a pleasant auditory experience, the Flaming Pink tends to be more muted, allowing for a more versatile use in various settings, while the Mahjong offers a more pronounced and invigorating sound that can energize typing.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Pink delivers a smooth and responsive experience that is essential for fast-paced gaming and comfortable typing. The switch allows for effortless key presses, enhancing overall productivity. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong boasts a bouncy, spring-like sensation that provides lively feedback, contributing to a more dynamic typing experience. Furthermore, the Mahjong switches are characterized as mild and polished, making them accessible for a wider range of users with their gentle characteristics and refined action. While the Flaming Pink emphasizes a seamless action, the Mahjong’s elasticity makes it engaging and fun, catering to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, both switches offer distinct yet enjoyable experiences. The TTC Flaming Pink provides a smooth, balanced sound and feel ideal for diverse settings, while the Dareu Mahjong offers a lively auditory and tactile engagement that appeals to those who enjoy a more energetic typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches will deliver quality performance, making them excellent choices for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To conclude, when selecting between the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider your typing preferences and intended use. If you seek a light actuation force and a smooth, polished feel for an effortless and responsive typing experience, the Flaming Pink switch is ideal. It strikes a balance between gaming and everyday use, coupled with a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances your overall experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more lively and bouncy typist feedback, the Dareu Mahjong switch may be your go-to. Its unique sound signature and mild characteristics offer an elastic sensation that is enjoyable, making it suitable for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Opt for the Flaming Pink for a quieter, smooth experience, whereas the Mahjong is great for those who appreciate a more engaging and lively feel with each keystroke. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value responsiveness and subtlety with the Flaming Pink, or a more vibrant and bouncy experience with the Mahjong.
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