Dareu Mahjong vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) are two popular options to consider. The Mahjong switches by Dareu are characterized by their vibrant green and white color scheme, which adds a unique flair to any keyboard. These linear switches offer a lively and poppy sound signature, making typing a breeze. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switches from Gateron are known for their smooth and budget-friendly typing experience. With a buttery smoothness and low-pitched "thock" sound, these switches provide a satisfying feel with each keystroke. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that appeal to different preferences, whether you prefer a bouncy and mild typing experience like the Mahjong, or a buttery and bassy feel like the Milky Red Pro. However, let's delve deeper beyond generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your personal typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Nylon
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
In terms of housing materials, the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both use nylon for their bottom housings. This classic switch housing material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that adds to the overall typing experience for both switches.
However, when it comes to their top housings, the Mahjong utilizes POK material while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) uses nylon. The POK material in the Mahjong switches is known for its exceptional smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a clacky typing experience. While both materials have their own unique qualities, they both aim to enhance the overall feel and sound of the switches during use.
Ultimately, the choice of housing material for switches plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. While the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) differ in terms of their top housings, both switches offer a smooth and clacky typing experience. The POK material in the Mahjong provides exceptional smoothness and durability, while the nylon top housing of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) creates a deeper sound profile. By understanding the unique qualities that each housing material brings to the switches, users can choose the one that best suits their preferences for typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is clear that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the bottom out force of the Mahjong is unknown. This makes the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter switch allows for longer typing or gaming sessions, while a heavier switch provides a more substantial typing experience. Overall, those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Mahjong, while those seeking a slightly heavier feel may lean towards the Milky Red Pro (KS-3).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Mahjong has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Milky Red Pro's 4 mm. The Mahjong's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Milky Red Pro's slightly longer travel distance might provide a more traditional and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel. Both options offer unique benefits, and selecting the one that aligns with personal preferences will result in a satisfying 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 Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments, making it a versatile option for both beginners and experienced users. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a bassy and thocky sound with low-pitched tones, creating a deeper and richer auditory experience during key presses. Depending on individual preferences and the accompanying keyboard and keycap choices, users can tailor their sound experience accordingly.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Mahjong switch is known for its bouncy and mild typing sensation, providing a spring-like feedback with a gentle touch. The keys offer a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction for effortless key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and uniform. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Mahjong switch offering a more lively and rebounding feel, while the Milky Red Pro switch provides a smooth and consistent typing sensation.
Overall, when comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, users can expect a unique sound and feel experience with each option. The Mahjong switch offers a neutral sound with a bouncy and mild feel, while the Milky Red Pro switch provides a bassy and thocky sound with a buttery typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a switch with a unique color scheme, lively sound signature, and effortless typing experience, then the Mahjong switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that provides a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched and satisfying sound profile, then the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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