HMX Lotus vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Lotus linear switch to the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, some distinct differences become apparent. The Lotus switch boasts a medium weight of 50g bottom out and emits a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Mahjong switch features a unique green and white color scheme, delivering a lively, poppy sound signature and an effortless typing experience. While the Lotus switch is categorized as a smooth switch, the Mahjong switch falls into the bouncy, mild, neutral, and polished category. Each switch has its own set of advantages, making them appealing choices for different preferences. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide which switch is best for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
POM
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
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Dareu Mahjong, it is evident that both switches use nylon for their top housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made of nylon. The only difference between the two switches in this aspect is that the Mahjong uses POK material for its top housing, which offers smoother and more durable properties with a higher coefficient of friction compared to nylon.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Lotus and the Mahjong utilize nylon as their material of choice. This means that both switches will elicit a similar deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, contributing to the overall typing experience. While both switches share the same bottom housing material, it is important to note that the Mahjong's top housing material differs from that of the Lotus, offering unique qualities in terms of smoothness and durability.
Overall, the housing materials used in the HMX Lotus and the Dareu Mahjong switches play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience for users. While both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, the Mahjong sets itself apart with its POK top housing material. This difference results in a smoother and more durable typing experience for users of the Mahjong switch, compared to the deeper and fuller sound profile elicited by the Lotus switch. Despite these variations, both switches ultimately aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users through their unique housing materials.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch share a similar actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience for users. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lotus requires 50 grams of force while the Mahjong's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Lotus is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Mahjong. Weight becomes a factor in this comparison, as the lighter actuation force and bottom out force of the Lotus may appeal to users looking for a smoother typing experience, ideal for extended periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Lotus may cater to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Lotus linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches are relatively close in travel distance, with the Lotus being slightly longer. While 0.1 mm may seem like a small difference, it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Mahjong a popular choice in gaming setups. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. On the other hand, those who prefer a more hearty depth when typing may opt for the Lotus with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Lotus linear switch is known for its bright and resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a lively, poppy sound signature, contributing to an effortless typing experience. Both switches provide a pleasant auditory feedback, making them suitable for various preferences and environments. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch is praised for its medium weight of 50g bottom out, offering a bouncy sensation that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong switch is described as bouncy, giving a spring-like feedback when pressed. Additionally, the Mahjong switches are labeled as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying feel, catering to different preferences of users looking for a distinctive typing sensation.
Overall, the HMX Lotus and Dareu Mahjong linear switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lotus switch provides a bright and resonant sound with a bouncy feel, the Mahjong switch offers a lively, poppy sound signature with a spring-like feedback. The choice between the two would largely depend on personal preference for a specific sound and feel profile. However, given their similar descriptions in certain aspects, users can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of sound and feel with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a light key press with a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Lotus switch may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a bright, resonant sound and a bouncy typing experience, the Lotus switch could provide a delightful keystroke sensation. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force and a unique green and white color scheme, the Mahjong switch might be more appealing to you. The Mahjong switch is known for its lively, poppy sound signature and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for key feel, sound, and design.
Mentioned in this article
