Dareu Mahjong vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Mahjong and the KTT Matcha. The Dareu Mahjong features unique green and white switches that provide a lively and poppy sound signature, along with an effortless typing experience. Categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', these switches offer a pleasant and smooth feel. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha is known for its tactile feedback, offering a comfortable and snappy typing experience. With a clean bottom-out sound and categorized as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', 'Accented', 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Matcha is a favorite among enthusiasts. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics to consider when choosing the best fit for your typing 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the KTT Matcha switches both play a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. The Mahjong utilizes POK material for its top housing, which is known for its smooth and durable qualities. In contrast, the Matcha employs polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials have their strengths, the POK material offers a smoother feel, while polycarbonate contributes to a clearer sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Mahjong utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the Matcha uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile similar to its top housing. Despite this similarity in sound profile, the different materials offer unique characteristics to the switches – the nylon bottom housing provides a softer bottom-out feel, while the polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clearer and resonant bottom-out sound.
Overall, while the Dareu Mahjong and the KTT Matcha switches both incorporate top and bottom housings made from different materials, each material contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The split in housing materials allows for a balance of smoothness, durability, clarity, and sound profile. Whether it is the POK and nylon combination of the Mahjong or the polycarbonate pairing in the Matcha, both switches are designed to provide a unique typing experience tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, we can see some differences. The Mahjong has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Matcha's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Matcha is heavier at 45 grams, while the bottom out force of the Mahjong is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Matcha may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Mahjong might be more suitable for individuals who prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In comparison, the Mahjong has a shorter travel distance than the Matcha. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Mahjong with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Matcha with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style.
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 KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 Dareu Mahjong switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various settings and user preferences. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch produces a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive. The choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more versatile sound with the Mahjong or a more distinctive and lively sound with the Matcha. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Mahjong switch provides a bouncy and lively typing experience, offering a spring-like feedback and a smooth, polished finish for a sleek typing sensation. In contrast, the KTT Matcha switch has a stepped tactility that feels mild with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages, along with a snappy response that makes typing feel more alive. Additionally, the Matcha switch offers an accented tactility that is not too overwhelming nor too subtle, providing a comfortable typing experience for extended use.
In conclusion, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mahjong switch provides a neutral sound profile with bouncy and polished keypresses, while the Matcha switch delivers a clacky sound with stepped tactility and snappy responsiveness. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch, knowing that the Mahjong will give you a more versatile sound and bouncy feel, while the Matcha will provide a distinctive clacky sound and stepped tactile feedback. Both switches offer an enjoyable typing experience, tailored to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you value a unique color scheme, a lively sound signature, and a bouncy, polished feel, the Mahjong may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom-out force, a snappy tactility, and a clean, clacky sound, the Matcha could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what qualities you prioritize in your typing experience, whether it be the sound, feel, or aesthetic appeal of the switches. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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