Dareu Mahjong vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Melodic are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics and experiences for users. The 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. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic redefines the clicky switch category by incorporating advancements like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, delivering a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback while ensuring smoothness. While the Mahjong switch is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Polished', the Melodic switch falls into categories like 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Crunchy'. Each switch offers its own set of unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Melodic, one noticeable difference is in the top housing material used. The Mahjong utilizes POK material, known for its smoothness and durability, while the Melodic features polycarbonate, which provides a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer unique benefits, such as POK's smoothness and polycarbonate's resonance, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Melodic allows for RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element not found in the Mahjong's POK material.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Mahjong and the Melodic make use of nylon. This classic switch housing material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and increased sound absorption. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches allows for a consistent typing experience with a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. While the bottom housing may not have as significant an impact on the sound when compared to the top housing, the use of nylon in this component ensures a consistent and satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
Overall, while the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Melodic utilize different top housing materials, they both rely on nylon for their bottom housings. This leads to a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, with the differences primarily noticeable in the top housing material. Whether you prefer the smoothness and durability of the POK material in the Mahjong or the sharper sound profile and visual appeal of polycarbonate in the Melodic, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and aesthetics. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials will come down to personal preference and the typing experience desired by the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics. The Mahjong has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Melodic's actuation force is unknown. However, the Melodic has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Mahjong, which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Mahjong would require less force to initiate a keystroke, while the Melodic would provide a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier force needed to bottom out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mahjong would be the better choice, while the Melodic would be more suitable for those who enjoy a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, we can see that the Mahjong has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Melodic has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Mahjong is the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times due to the shorter distance the switch travels from top to bottom. On the other hand, the Melodic offers a longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. In the end, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance - whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more tactile typing experience.
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 Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of users and environments. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound that is higher-pitched and immersive, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. The choice between these switches will come down to personal preference, with the Mahjong providing a more versatile sound experience while the Melodic offers a more dynamic and auditory-focused typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Mahjong switch is described as bouncy, mild, and polished, offering a lively and approachable typing experience with smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch is buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations, with the Mahjong focusing on a balanced and refined typing experience while the Melodic delivers a more tactile and reactive feel.
In conclusion, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles for users to choose from based on their preferences. Those looking for a versatile and lively typing experience may prefer the Mahjong, while users seeking a dynamic and immersive auditory sensation may lean towards the Melodic. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and can cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring that users will achieve a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a lively and poppy sound with effortless typing, the Mahjong may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a classic clicky sound with smoothness and tactile feedback, the Melodic switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, choose based on whether you prefer a neutral sound profile and bouncy feel, or a resonant sound profile and invigorating feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics, so it's important to consider what best aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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