Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Dareu Mahjong both present exciting options for enthusiasts and casual users alike, despite being two linear switches. The Glory Yellow is renowned for its smooth keystroke and pleasant travel distance, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a solid, weighty feel in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switches stand out with their vibrant green and white color scheme and a lively, poppy sound signature, offering an effortless typing experience that appeals to gamers and typists seeking a more dynamic auditory feedback. While both switches promise a satisfying performance, their distinct characteristics cater to different preferences—whether you lean towards the reliability and weight of the Glory Yellow or the playful pop of the Mahjong. 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
50g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Yellow and the Dareu Mahjong switches present a compelling comparison of housing materials that impact typing experience and sound profile. The Glory Yellow utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for its softer and more absorbent qualities. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, as the nylon effectively dampens sound and produces a rounded auditory response. Conversely, the Dareu Mahjong distinguishes itself by employing POK material for the top housing, which, while slightly less absorbent than nylon, boasts a superior coefficient of friction and exceptional durability. This differentiation in materials means that while the Mahjong can offer a smoother actuation, it will likely provide a brighter sound profile compared to the Glory Yellow.
In terms of the bottom housings of both switches, the materials are the same—nylon—for the Glory Yellow and Mahjong alike. This shared characteristic leads to an equivalent deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches when bottoming out. Because both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect similar auditory sensations during this part of the keystroke, emphasizing a softer bottom-out sound. The consistent use of nylon in the bottom housings also ensures that both switches will deliver a familiar tactile experience, reflecting the adjustments made in the design of the top housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Glory Yellow and Dareu Mahjong may boil down to personal preference regarding sound and feel. While both switches provide a balanced typing experience due to the use of nylon in the bottom housing, the differing top housings significantly influence the overall auditory profile. The Mahjong's POK material contributes to a smoother feel and a clackier sound on release, while the Glory Yellow's nylon top offers a warmer, more muted sound. Thus, users seeking specific typing sensations and sounds will find distinctive attributes in each switch despite the shared qualities stemming from their nylon bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, we find that the actuation forces differ slightly, with the Glory Yellow requiring 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Mahjong has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This makes the Dareu Mahjong the more suitable option for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it may reduce finger fatigue. Both switches do not have specified bottom out forces, which leaves us without a direct comparison; however, since both switches do not provide this information, we can assume that their bottom out feels might be similar, although we can't confirm any specifics. Overall, for those who enjoy a stronger push feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow would be more appealing due to its heavier actuation force, while the Dareu Mahjong is better suited for those who opt for a more gentle keystroke.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch reveals a notable difference. The Glory Yellow boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, making it relatively traditional and providing a more substantial feel with each press. In contrast, the Mahjong has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, appealing to those who favor quick responses, especially gamers. While the Mahjong's distance allows for faster actuation, it may feel too abrupt for users who appreciate a deeper keystroke. Therefore, if responsiveness is your priority, the Mahjong would be the better choice, whereas those who prefer a richer typing experience may opt for the Gateron Glory Yellow due to its longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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 Glory Yellow switch delivers a smooth and pleasant auditory experience that complements its linear nature. While specifics are not provided, linear switches typically maintain a quieter profile compared to tactile or clicky switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switches exhibit a lively, poppy sound signature which enhances the typing experience with a more engaging auditory feedback. This makes the Mahjong switch potentially more appealing for those who enjoy a bit more character in their keystrokes, though the overall sound will ultimately be influenced by the keyboard setup and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch is known for its smooth keystroke and satisfying travel distance, promoting a comfortable typing experience. Meanwhile, the Dareu Mahjong switches offer a combination of bouncy feedback, mild characteristics, and polished quality. This blend creates a lively yet approachable feel, providing responsive feedback that many users find enjoyable. The polished finish of the Mahjong switches suggests a refined typing experience with reduced friction, while the bounciness adds a playful element that may feel rewarding during prolonged use.
Overall, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and Dareu Mahjong linear switches provide distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Glory Yellow focuses on delivering a reliable and smooth typing journey, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize consistency and ease of use. In contrast, the Mahjong switches bring a more dynamic feel and sound profile, appealing to users who seek a lively and engaging typing experience. Depending on your typing style and sonic preferences, either switch could potentially meet your needs effectively, whether you lean towards the straightforward beauty of the Glory Yellow or the more spirited character of the Mahjong.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, you'll want to consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you appreciate a smooth keystroke and a longer travel distance that provides an enjoyable typing experience, the Glory Yellow is an excellent choice, particularly if you're looking for something that balances comfort and performance. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a lively typing experience with a poppy sound signature, and you appreciate a bouncy feel that adds some springiness to your keystrokes, then the Dareu Mahjong switch would be more suited for you. The Mahjong's neutral sound profile makes it versatile for various settings, whether at home or in an office, where you want to maintain a balance between enjoyment and a less intrusive typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal typing style and the atmosphere in which you'll be using your keyboard, allowing you to find the perfect match for your needs.
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