Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Dareu Mahjong mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, it's important to consider the unique characteristics that each switch offers. The Lightning Silver V3, known for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, provides a seamless typing experience with a light diffuser for enhanced RGB illumination. On the other hand, the Mahjong switches stand out with their green and white color scheme, offering a lively and poppy sound with an effortless typing experience. These switches are categorized as clacky, high-pitched, silky for the Lightning Silver V3 and bouncy, mild, neutral, polished for the Mahjong. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable choices for different preferences. 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
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Dareu Mahjong both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate top housing is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Mahjong's POK top housing offers a smooth and clacky typing experience. Both materials are durable, with polycarbonate being stiffer and more resonant, while POK is exceptionally strong and wear-resistant. However, the differences in sound profiles between the two materials may appeal to different preferences, with polycarbonate delivering a clearer sound and POK offering a smoother typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate bottom housing continues the trend of producing a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Mahjong's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate material. While both materials are reliable and durable, the difference in sound profiles between the two may influence the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Dareu Mahjong housing materials comes down to personal preference. Both switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences based on their housing materials, with the polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Lightning Silver V3 delivering a sharper sound, and the POK and nylon housings of the Mahjong providing a smoother and fuller sound. Whether users prefer a crisp and clear sound profile or a smooth and clacky typing experience, both switches offer quality construction and durability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it is evident that the Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Mahjong's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Lightning Silver V3 is also higher at 60 grams, while the Mahjong's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Lightning Silver V3 provides a slightly heavier typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mahjong may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. Both switches offer their own advantages, with the Lightning Silver V3 being suitable for a more substantial typing experience, while the Mahjong may be more suitable for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is evident that they offer the same tactile experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that regardless of whether you choose the Lightning Silver V3 or the Mahjong linear switch, you can expect similar keypress feedback and performance. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches as they both provide a 3.4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched sound, which produces a sharp and snappy noise that is bright and percussive. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile, offering a moderate noise level suitable for various environments. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the Lightning Silver V3 providing a more distinctive and lively sound compared to the Mahjong's more understated profile.
When it comes to feel, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance and a seamless keypress. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback and a mild typing experience that falls in the safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Mahjong switch boasts a polished finish for a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, the Lightning Silver V3 excels in offering a smooth and refined feel, while the Mahjong provides a more lively and rebounding sensation for those who prefer a bit more bounce in their keystrokes.
Considering the information provided, it is evident that the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities to cater to different preferences. The Lightning Silver V3 stands out for its clacky, high-pitched sound and silky smooth feel, making it a suitable choice for those who enjoy a sharper sound profile and minimal resistance in typing. In contrast, the Mahjong switch provides a more neutral sound with a bouncy and polished feel, appealing to individuals looking for a livelier typing experience with a sleek finish. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, ensuring that users can find a switch that aligns with their specific preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky typing feel, the Lightning Silver V3 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a bouncy, mild, or polished typing experience, the Mahjong switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what kind of sounds and sensations you prefer while typing. Consider trying out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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