KTT Laurel vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Laurel and Dareu Mahjong both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The KTT Laurel is a linear switch that boasts a medium-light actuation force, full POM housing, and a short travel distance, providing a perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, it offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong is also a linear switch with a distinctive green and white color scheme, offering a lively and poppy sound signature. Its typing experience is characterized as bouncy, mild, neutral, and polished, providing a different feel compared to the KTT Laurel. When choosing between these two 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Laurel and Dareu Mahjong both offer unique housing materials for their switches. The Laurel features POM top and bottom housings, which create a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Mahjong utilizes POK top housing and nylon bottom housing. The POK material in the Mahjong delivers a smooth and clacky typing experience, with exceptional durability and wear resistance. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing in the Mahjong produces a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer plastic composition.
While the Laurel and Mahjong both offer top and bottom housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches, they differ in their specific properties. The POM material in the Laurel provides a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side, while the POK material in the Mahjong offers a smooth and clacky typing experience. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in the Mahjong contributes to a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing in the Laurel. These differences in housing materials result in distinct typing experiences for users of each switch.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Laurel and Mahjong both play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches. While the POM material in the Laurel creates a pleasing sound profile, the POK material in the Mahjong offers smooth and durable switches. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in the Mahjong produces a deeper sound, while the POM bottom housing in the Laurel contributes to a unique sound experience. Ultimately, both switches provide unique typing experiences due to their distinct housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch showcase some differences. The Laurel has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Mahjong's 45 grams, while both have unknown bottom out forces. This means that the Laurel may provide a smoother typing experience with less resistance, ideal for those looking for a lighter touch. In contrast, the Mahjong may offer a slightly heavier feel, which could be preferred by those seeking a more substantial typing feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular among gamers for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal and may not be noticeable to everyone. Ultimately, whether you choose the Laurel or Mahjong switch will depend on personal preference for the level of responsiveness and depth you desire in a linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 KTT Laurel linear switch offers a subtly low-pitched profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. While the Laurel switch may offer a more calming typing experience, the Mahjong switch provides a more versatile and universally appealing sound. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches will depend on individual taste and the overall setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch is known for its snappy response, making typing feel more alive and responsive. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a bouncy sensation with a mild and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. The Laurel switch's snappiness may appeal to those who prefer a more immediate keypress response, while the Mahjong switch's bouncy and polished feel may be preferred by users looking for a gentler and smoother typing experience. Both switches offer distinct tactile qualities that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Laurel switch provides a low-pitched sound and a snappy feel, the Mahjong switch offers a neutral sound and a bouncy, polished feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired keyboard feel. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality options for those seeking a linear switch with specific sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a low-pitched sound profile with a snappier feel, the Laurel switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with a unique color scheme, a lively and poppy sound, and a bouncy or mild feel, the Mahjong switch would be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer their own set of characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to choose based on what aligns best with your typing experience.
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