Dareu Mahjong vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Mahjong and Dareu Master both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Mahjong switches stand out with their distinctive green and white color scheme and are praised for their lively, poppy sound signature and effortless typing experience. Classified as bouncy, mild, neutral, and polished, they provide a comfortable and satisfying feel while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch, an all-POM linear offering, provides a medium weight and a classic clacky sound signature. Users can enjoy exceptional smoothness in operation with this switch, categorized as clacky, mild, and polished. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POK
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Dareu Master, the Mahjong stands out with its POK top housing which boasts exceptional durability and smoothness. The POK material's coefficient of friction is slightly higher than that of the Master's POM top housing, but it offers superior wear resistance and shock resistance. On the other hand, the Master's POM top housing creates a unique and pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. While both materials excel in their own ways, the Mahjong's POK top housing provides a smoother and clackier typing experience compared to the Master's POM top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Mahjong features a nylon bottom housing known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the Master's POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and relatively more muted. The difference in sound profiles between the two bottom housings may appeal to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. However, both nylon and POM materials offer their own advantages when it comes to enhancing the overall typing experience.
When considering the overall impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the key switches, it is important to note that each material brings its own set of qualities to the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both the Dareu Mahjong and Master incorporate their housing materials in a way that enhances the typing experience, whether it be through smoothness, durability, or unique sound profiles. Ultimately, the choice between the two keyboards may come down to personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
Both the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that they will both require the same amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unavailable, so it is difficult to compare them in that aspect. In terms of weight, if the bottom out force is not significantly different for either switch, then both will likely provide a similar typing experience in terms of pressure needed to fully press down the keys. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of 45 grams, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while others may prefer a heavier press for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Mahjong and the Dareu Master will come down to personal preference and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, you can expect similar typing experiences and tactile feedback from both switches. The equal travel distance of these switches indicates that they will provide consistent keypresses and actuation points for users. So, whether you choose the Mahjong or the Master switch, you can anticipate a comparable typing experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch is known for its lively and poppy sound signature, providing an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a classic clacky sound with exceptional smoothness in operation. The Mahjong switch falls under the category of a neutral switch, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile suitable for various uses. In contrast, the Master switch is classified as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Mahjong switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation, along with a mild typing experience that falls in the middle ground of switch characteristics. Additionally, the Mahjong switch is polished, offering a smooth and refined finish for sleek typing. Similarly, the Master switch also falls into the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. It also boasts a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer qualities that cater to a wide range of typing preferences, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it can be noted that while they differ in sound and feel, both switches offer desirable characteristics for different preferences. Whether you prefer a lively and poppy sound with a bouncy feel, or a classic clacky sound with exceptional smoothness, both switches provide an excellent typing experience. With the Mahjong and Master switches, you can expect reliable performance and comfort, making them both solid choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a lively and poppy sound with a bouncy and polished feel, the Mahjong switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a classic clacky sound with a smooth and polished feel, the Master switch could be the optimal option. Keep in mind the unique characteristics of each switch and choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a premium typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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