Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Dareu Mahjong mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, some key differences and similarities become apparent. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavy actuation and bottom-out force, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit of resistance. On the other hand, the Mahjong switches boast a vibrant green and white color scheme, adding a unique visual flair to your keyboard setup. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a medium-high pitch auditory experience, the Mahjong switches offer a lively and poppy sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound, and aesthetics. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Dareu Mahjong both use different materials for their top and bottom housings, resulting in unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing known for its high-pitched and clacky sound, while the bottom housing made of POM creates a deeper and muted sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong features a POK top housing that contributes to smooth and durable switches with a clacky sound, while its nylon bottom housing produces a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition.
In terms of durability and wear resistance, the Dareu Mahjong with its POK top housing stands out with shock resistance surpassing Nylon and POM. It offers a smooth typing experience with a clacky sound profile, making it a top choice for those looking for reliable and long-lasting switches. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing creates a unique and deep sound profile that adds a touch of elegance to the typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a more muted sound.
While both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Dareu Mahjong offer unique typing experiences with their top and bottom housing materials, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound profiles and durability. Whether you prefer the high-pitched clacky sound of the G Pro 3.0 Black or the smooth and durable feel of the Dareu Mahjong, both switches deliver quality performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and durability in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, we see a noticeable difference in weight. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Mahjong offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The G Pro 3.0 Black would be preferred by those who enjoy a substantial typing feel and a bit of resistance, while the Mahjong would appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Regardless, both switches offer a smooth linear feel for key presses, ensuring a satisfying typing experience overall.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a longer distance compared to the Mahjong switch. The 4.0mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Black is more traditional, providing a deeper feel when pressed, while the 3.4mm travel distance of the Mahjong switch is shallower and allows for quicker response times. Gamers who prefer fast response times may opt for the Mahjong switch, while those who enjoy a deeper feel when pressing down on a key may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is characterized by a clacky and somewhat subdued sound profile, providing a crisp and slightly muted typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate and versatile auditory experience suitable for various settings. The choice between these two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile desired in a mechanical keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is known for its creamy, silky, and subtle typing experience, offering smooth and effortless keystrokes with a medium-heavy actuation force. Conversely, the Dareu Mahjong switch is associated with a bouncy, mild, and polished feel, providing a more lively and elastic typing sensation that is approachable to most users. Choosing between these switches will depend on the tactile feedback and resistance level preferred by the user during typing sessions.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is characterized by a clacky sound and creamy typing experience, the Mahjong switch provides a neutral sound profile and a bouncy typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, either of these switches can cater to a wide range of users looking for linear switches with unique characteristics. Ultimately, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction, as both switches excel in delivering quality and reliability in mechanical keyboard setups.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a balanced actuation force and bottom-out force, as well as a clacky and slightly subdued sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique color scheme, a poppy sound signature, and a typing experience that is bouncy, mild, and polished, the Mahjong switch could be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer different qualities and characteristics, so it is important to prioritize what factors matter most to you in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
Mentioned in this article
