Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch to the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, there are distinct differences that make each switch unique. The Keygeek Raw is loved for its material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, which creates a creamy yet lightweight switch with a slightly textured feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong stands out with its green and white color scheme, giving it a lively sound signature and effortless typing experience. The Keygeek Raw is categorized as 'Textured', while the Mahjong is categorized as 'Bouncy', both offering a mild and neutral feel. When choosing between these switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Raw and the Dareu Mahjong, it is clear that they both offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall performance of the switches. The Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, providing a smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong employs POK material for its top housing, known for its exceptional durability and smoothness. While both materials offer smoothness, the POK material stands out for its superior wear resistance and shock resistance compared to the Nylon & UPE blend.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Keygeek Raw features a UMPE & Si blend, which is exclusive to their switches. This blend likely provides a unique typing experience compared to traditional materials like nylon. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the UMPE & Si blend may offer a different sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of the Mahjong contributes to a unique typing experience with its ability to absorb sound and create a duller and rounder sound.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Keygeek Raw and Dareu Mahjong each offer distinct advantages that cater to different preferences in typing experience. While the Keygeek Raw focuses on a smooth typing experience with its unique blends, the Dareu Mahjong prioritizes durability and sound profile with its POK and nylon materials. Both switches ultimately deliver high-quality performance, but the choice between them will likely come down to personal preference in typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it is evident that there are differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Keygeek Raw has an actuation force of None grams, indicating a light touch is needed to register a keystroke, while the bottom out force is 57.5 grams, providing a moderate resistance when fully pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong has an actuation force of 45 grams, requiring a slightly heavier touch to activate, but the bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Keygeek Raw may be the better option, as it requires less force to actuate. Conversely, for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Dareu Mahjong may be more suitable due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4mm, making them equal in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. When comparing the travel distance of these switches, it is evident that users can expect similar results in terms of the distance they feel when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer a consistent and uniform typing experience with no significant differences in travel distance. Whether you choose the Keygeek Raw or the Dareu Mahjong, you can expect a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a travel distance of 3.4mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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, both the Keygeek Raw and Dareu Mahjong switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The unique materials used in the construction of the Keygeek Raw switches create a slightly textured feel, providing a subtle tactile experience for users who prefer a bit of feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Mahjong switches offer a bouncy and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a lively rebound effect. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with different tactile characteristics to cater to varying preferences. Whether you choose the Keygeek Raw or Dareu Mahjong switch, you can expect a pleasant sound and feel while typing, making them both excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch or the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly textured feel with a creamy yet lightweight switch that you can hand-lube to your liking, the Keygeek Raw may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a poppy sound signature and a bouncy, polished typing experience, then the Mahjong switch from Dareu might be the perfect fit. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various intents and purposes. Ultimately, it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you in a switch and choose accordingly.