Dareu Mahjong vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, we can see some distinct differences. The Dareu Mahjong stands out with its unique green and white color scheme, offering a lively and poppy sound signature along with an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is known for its smoothness and buttery goodness, providing a low, thocky sound with satisfying resistance, making it versatile for both gaming and typing. While the Mahjong is categorized as bouncy, mild, neutral, polished, the Milky Yellow Pro is categorized as bassy, buttery, low-pitched, textured, thocky. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal depending on individual 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
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
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) in terms of housing materials, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on switches using either of these keyboards will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic composition allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound feedback between the two switches.
However, where the switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Dareu Mahjong features a POK top housing, which is known for its exceptional smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction slightly higher than LY (0.03), the POK material provides a smooth and clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials offer unique qualities, the POK material of the Mahjong prioritizes smoothness and durability, while the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro focuses on enhancing sound feedback.
In terms of tactile feedback, the top and bottom housing materials of a switch play different roles in shaping the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. By understanding the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), users can better appreciate how each switch offers a distinct typing experience based on the characteristics of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Mahjong has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Milky Yellow Pro is 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the bottom out force of the Mahjong is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Dareu Mahjong may be the more suitable option. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may favor the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, the Dareu Mahjong has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - if you prioritize faster response times and prefer a shorter travel distance, the Dareu Mahjong would be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel and deeper keystrokes, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro would be the preferred choice. Ultimately, both switches offer different travel distances to cater to individual preferences, providing a range of options for keyboard users.
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 Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow 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
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch is known for its lively and poppy sound signature, providing a distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a low, "thocky" sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying. While the Mahjong has a neutral sound profile suitable for various intents and purposes, the Milky Yellow Pro brings a bass-heavy and mellow tone that can enhance the typing experience, especially for those who enjoy a deeper sound during key presses. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by the user's choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Mahjong is noted for its bouncy and mild characteristics, providing a spring-like feedback and a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle ground. The switch is also described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish for sleek typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is praised for its buttery feel, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and uniform. Some users may prefer the textured sensation of these switches, which can add a unique tactile feedback during typing.
In conclusion, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mahjong provides a lively and poppy sound with a bouncy and mild typing feel, the Milky Yellow Pro delivers a low, "thocky" sound and a buttery typing experience that is smooth and fluid. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and tactile feedback during typing. However, both switches are quality options that can enhance the overall typing experience for users, ensuring a satisfying feel and sound with every keystroke.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value a unique color scheme, lively sound, and effortless typing experience, the Mahjong may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience that excels in both gaming and typing, then the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) might be the better choice. The Mahjong offers a neutral sound and a bouncy, mild feel, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a bassy, low-pitched sound and a buttery, textured feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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