HMX Hibiscus vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Hibiscus and the Dareu Mahjong offers enthusiasts two unique options that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Hibiscus is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and an ultra-light actuation force, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a seamless typing experience and enjoy a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong switches, with their eye-catching green and white color scheme, present a lively and poppy sound signature, offering a bouncy and mildly tactile feel that can enhance the overall typing experience. Both switches deliver effortless engagement, but the Hibiscus tends to deliver a more refined, pristine quality while the Mahjong adds a playful character to every keystroke. Ultimately, while both linear switches boast their distinct advantages, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
T3
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and the Dareu Mahjong, a notable distinction arises in the choice of materials used for the top housing. The Hibiscus utilizes nylon, a classic and softer plastic known for its ability to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Mahjong features a top housing made from POK (polyketone), a stronger and smoother material that enhances durability and provides a clackier sound profile. While the Hibiscus's nylon top delivers a more muted acoustic experience, the POK top on the Mahjong contributes to a sharper and more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. The differences in these materials thus lead to a contrasting typing experience, exemplifying how the choice of housing material directly influences sound and tactile response.
On the other hand, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which leads to a shared characteristic between them. As with the top housing of the Hibiscus, the nylon in the bottom housing absorbs sound, contributing to the overall sound profile by creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. This similarity in bottom housing creates a unified sound experience when typing on either switch. Regardless of the distinction in materials for the top housing, the shared nylon component in the bottom housing ensures that both switches exhibit a similar, satisfying sound profile during key presses, particularly at the point of bottoming out.
The interplay between the different top housing materials and the uniformity of the bottom housing significantly influences the overall performance and sound experience of each switch. While the Hibiscus offers a softer, deeper sound due to its nylon top, the Mahjong’s POK material presents a smoother and more highly resonant experience. In both cases, however, the nylon bottom housing guarantees that typists encounter a familiar auditory experience at the point of bottoming out. Ultimately, the juxtaposition of sound characteristics exemplifies how material selection can dictate not only the acoustics but also the overall user experience of keyboard switches, highlighting the importance of understanding each housing material's properties.
Weight
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation force, which is essential for understanding their typing experiences. The Hibiscus has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, while the Mahjong switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This difference may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, as the Hibiscus is ideal for lengthy typing sessions or gaming, catering to users who favor a lighter switch. Conversely, the Mahjong's higher actuation force may provide a more substantial feel for those who enjoy a firmer push during keystrokes. While the Hibiscus also has a bottom out force of 48 grams, the bottom out force of the Mahjong switch is unknown, leaving a gap in comparison for that metric. Overall, if you prefer a lighter switch, the Hibiscus is the clear choice, while the Mahjong appeals to those who like a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Hibiscus has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Mahjong features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive typing experience, the Mahjong switch may suit your preferences better due to its shorter travel distance, which aligns with the trend among gamers who prioritize quick responses. On the other hand, if you appreciate a deeper, more substantial feel when pressing keys, the Hibiscus, with its longer travel distance, might be the more favorable choice. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you prefer the more responsive touch of the Mahjong or the fuller engagement of the Hibiscus.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 HMX Hibiscus switch is characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making it particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. This dynamic acoustics can contribute to an engaging typing experience, appealing to users who enjoy a lively sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switch boasts a lively and poppy sound signature as well, which suggests that both switches provide an engaging auditory feedback. While there might be subtle differences in sound intensity based on build and keycap choices, you can expect a similar lively auditory experience from both switches, catering well to different environments, from casual home use to more serious typing endeavors.
When examining the feel of the switches, the HMX Hibiscus is known for its unparalleled smoothness and ultra-light actuation force, creating a fluid typing experience that feels effortless to many users. The Dareu Mahjong switches, however, offer a multi-faceted feel as they are described with qualities such as bouncy, mild, and polished. This combination implies a fun, elastic feedback alongside a gentle and approachable typing experience. The polished nature of the Mahjong switches likely provides a smooth key travel akin to the Hibiscus, but with the added benefit of a more responsive rebound. While both switches provide a satisfying feel, the Mahjong's complexity with its spring-like feedback may appeal to those who enjoy a bit more character in their typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the HMX Hibiscus and Dareu Mahjong linear switches provide excellent auditory and tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience. The Hibiscus shines with its exceptionally smooth and light actuation, while the Mahjong presents a versatile feel with its bouncy and polished characteristics. Users can expect similarly engaging sound profiles from both switches, though the experience in terms of tactile feedback may vary slightly, making them suitable for different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between them will come down to personal preference regarding the specific feel and sound that best matches your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize an ultra-light actuation force combined with an exceptionally smooth and satisfying typing experience, the Hibiscus would be your go-to choice. Its clacky and crisp sound signature also makes it ideal for those who enjoy an auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for a bouncier, more playful feel in your typing, the Mahjong switches offer a lively and polished sensation that is both approachable and enjoyable. Their neutral sound profile and mild characteristics make them a versatile option suitable for various environments, whether at home or in the office. In essence, the Hibiscus excels in delivering a refined and responsive feel, while the Mahjong's engaging rebound and balanced sound make it an excellent choice for those seeking a more buoyant typing experience. Therefore, assess what aspects matter most to you and choose accordingly to enhance your mechanical keyboard journey.
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