Dareu Mahjong vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile switch offer unique experiences for users. The Dareu Mahjong switch stands out with its distinctive green and white color scheme, providing a lively and poppy sound signature along with an effortless typing experience. Categorized as bouncy, mild, neutral, and polished, this switch is ideal for those looking for a smooth and consistent typing feel. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch features a balanced tactility and jelly-like sound signature that sets it apart. Categorized as accented, stepped, mild, and polished, this switch is perfect for those seeking a tactile typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Durock Medium Tactile, it is evident that both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Mahjong utilizes POK material for the top housing, which is known for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. In contrast, the Medium Tactile utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile and is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, despite these differences, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature.
The choice of housing material in a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience. The POK top housing of the Mahjong contributes to its smooth, clacky feel, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Medium Tactile creates a clear and resonant sound profile. Both switches benefit from the use of nylon in their bottom housing, which absorbs sound to create a deeper and fuller typing experience. While the top housing may have a more noticeable impact on the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Durock Medium Tactile each bring unique characteristics to the switches. The POK top housing of the Mahjong offers exceptional smoothness and durability, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Medium Tactile provides a sharper sound profile ideal for RGB lighting. Both switches benefit from the use of nylon in their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the top and bottom housing materials may impact different aspects of the typing experience, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying and tactile typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Mahjong has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the actuation force of the Medium Tactile is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Mahjong's force is unknown, while the Medium Tactile requires a heavier 65 grams to bottom out. This means that the Mahjong switch may provide a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Mahjong has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Medium Tactile has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Mahjong's shorter travel distance may cater to gamers looking for a faster response time, as shorter distances are preferred for quick key presses. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced key press with deeper depth. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for responsiveness and feel.
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 Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 Mahjong linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch has a jelly-like sound signature, which adds a unique touch to the typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience based on personal preferences, keycaps, and keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Mahjong linear switch is described as bouncy and polished, providing a lively typing experience with smooth key travel. In contrast, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch is characterized as accented and stepped, offering a balanced tactility with a two-stage feel. Both switches provide a mild typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, while the Mahjong linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offer different sound and feel characteristics, they both provide a pleasant typing experience suitable for various users. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile with bouncy and polished key feel of the Mahjong or the jelly-like sound signature and accented, stepped tactility of the Durock Medium Tactile, you can expect similar satisfactory results in terms of typing comfort and enjoyment. Choose the switch that aligns best with your personal preferences and typing style to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and lively typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its bouncy and polished feel, you can expect a smooth and spring-like feedback when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a pronounced yet balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch is the way to go. With its accented and stepped feel, you can enjoy a gentle typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the specific feel and sound profile you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.