Dareu Mahjong vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch to the KTT Miaowu linear switch, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Mahjong switches are recognized for their distinctive green and white color scheme, providing a lively and poppy sound signature alongside an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch leverages KTT's latest molds for enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, utilizing POK in its stem for a different typing feel. The Mahjong switch is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Polished', while the Miaowu switch falls into the 'Bouncy', 'Clacky' category. These general pointers can help guide your decision, but to truly determine the best switch for your needs, let's delve deeper into their specific characteristics and functionalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and KTT Miaowu, it is evident that they both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Mahjong's POK top housing boasts exceptional smoothness and durability, with a coefficient of friction slightly higher than LY. On the other hand, the Miaowu's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. While both switches have top housings with unique characteristics, the nylon bottom housing of both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's sound-absorbing properties.
Despite the differences in top housing materials between the Mahjong and Miaowu, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon's softer plastic composition contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile when typing on switches, creating a more satisfying typing experience. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both the Mahjong and Miaowu offer a similar sound and feel when typing, emphasizing the importance of the bottom housing in determining the overall typing experience of a switch.
Ultimately, the different housing materials utilized in the Dareu Mahjong and KTT Miaowu switches highlight the impact that top and bottom housings have on the sound and feel of a switch. The POK material of the Mahjong's top housing provides a smooth and clacky typing experience, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Miaowu offers a sharper and more resonant sound profile. Meanwhile, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Understanding the unique characteristics of each housing material is essential for choosing a switch that aligns with individual preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, the Mahjong has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams, while the Miaowu has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams. The Mahjong's bottom out force is unknown, while the Miaowu has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Mahjong. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Miaowu for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the slightly heavier Mahjong switch. Both switches offer similar results when it comes to actuation force, ensuring a smooth and responsive typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, the Mahjong has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Miaowu has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a more abrupt and responsive feel may lean towards the Mahjong, while those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may opt for the Miaowu. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience with their relatively short travel distances.
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 Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch provides a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and characterized by a crisp and bright tone. Sound preference in switches can be subjective and may also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Dareu Mahjong and KTT Miaowu linear switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives a lively feel with rebound when the keys are pressed. Additionally, the Mahjong switch is noted for its mild typing experience, falling into a safe middle-ground zone of characteristics, while the Miaowu switch leverages POK in its stem for enhanced stability and smoother keystroke action. The polished finish of the Mahjong switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and providing smooth key travel.
Considering the differences in sound and feel between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is important to consider your personal preferences and typing needs when selecting a switch for your mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different tastes in sound and feel, ensuring that you can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Mahjong linear switch or the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and a unique color scheme with a lively sound signature, then the Mahjong may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a switch with enhanced stem stability and a clacky sound profile, then the Miaowu switch may be more suited to your needs. Both switches offer a bouncy feel, but the Mahjong also provides a polished typing experience, while the Miaowu offers a slightly different tactile feedback with its POK stem. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on what you prioritize in your keyboard typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
