Bsun Kiki Red vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular choices to consider are the Bsun Kiki Red and the Dareu Mahjong, both of which are linear switches. The Kiki Red is renowned for its finely-tuned typing experience, offering a comfortable high-pitched, clacky nuance without being excessively loud. With all-POM housings and Ly stems for smooth actuation, these switches provide a medium-light weighting that appeals to enthusiasts who value subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. On the other hand, the Mahjong switches stand out with their distinctive green and white color scheme, providing a lively, poppy sound signature and effortless typing experience. While the Kiki Red is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the Mahjong is labeled as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits, but diving deeper into their specific features will help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Kiki Red and Dareu Mahjong both use different materials for their top and bottom housing, with the Kiki Red utilizing POM for both components while the Mahjong uses POK for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The POM material in the Kiki Red creates a deep and muted sound profile, similar to the effect seen when typing on switches made of nylon like in the Mahjong. However, the POK material in the Mahjong offers increased durability and smoothness compared to the POM material in the Kiki Red.
In terms of sound profile, both the Kiki Red and Mahjong offer unique characteristics due to their housing materials. The POM top housing in the Kiki Red produces a pleasing and deep sound, whereas the POK top housing in the Mahjong contributes to a smooth and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the Mahjong creates a fuller and rounder sound compared to the relatively muted sound produced by the POM bottom housing in the Kiki Red. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles.
Ultimately, the choice between the Bsun Kiki Red and Dareu Mahjong will come down to personal preference for sound and feel. While the POM and POK materials offer their own advantages, such as unique sound profiles and durability, the nylon material in the Mahjong provides a softer feel and fuller sound. Whether you prefer the deep and muted sound of the Kiki Red or the clacky and smooth sound of the Mahjong, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it is evident that the Kiki Red is lighter in both aspects. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Mahjong has an actuation force of 45 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. The Kiki Red provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Mahjong offers a slightly heavier actuation force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the Kiki Red is lighter overall. Users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Kiki Red, while those seeking a heavier feel may opt for the Mahjong.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The Kiki Red may offer a slightly deeper press compared to the Mahjong, but both switches provide a relatively short travel distance overall. If you prefer a switch with a bit more depth to the press, the Kiki Red may be the better option for you. However, if you prioritize a quicker and more responsive typing experience, the Mahjong with its slightly shorter travel distance could be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results due to their close proximity in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offers a clacky sound profile, delivering a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch provides a neutral sound experience, characterized by a moderate actuation force and sound profile suitable for various settings. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offers a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience. This translates to a smooth and buttery sensation when typing, with minimal resistance and effortless key travel. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is described as bouncy and mild, providing a gentler typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches feature a polished finish, contributing to a sleek and refined typing feel.
Overall, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is favored for its high-pitched, clacky sound profile and a smooth, easy-to-press feel that appeals to enthusiasts seeking subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. The Dareu Mahjong linear switch stands out with its unique green and white color scheme, lively sound signature, and effortless typing experience, making it a distinctive choice within Dareu's switch lineup. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer quality performance and can deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch that offers a light typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched and clacky sound, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Kiki Reds are perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance, thanks to their medium-light weighting and all-POM housings. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique and lively typing experience with a bouncy feel and a moderate sound profile, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch would be more suitable for you. The Mahjong switches stand out with their distinctive green and white color scheme and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your preference in sound, feel, and typing style.
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