Dareu Mahjong vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Mahjong and KTT Mint linear switches stand out as popular choices. The Dareu Mahjong switches are recognizable for their unique green and white color scheme, offering a lively and poppy sound signature accompanied by an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switches are praised for their satisfyingly smooth feel, producing a poppy thockiness due to their long pole stem. While the Mahjong switches are categorized as 'Bouncy' and the Mint switches as 'Low-pitched', both fall under the 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished' categories. Each switch has its own appeal, with the Mahjong providing a bouncier feel and the Mint offering a lighter touch. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Mahjong and the KTT Mint both feature unique housing materials in their construction, with the Mahjong using POK for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, while the Mint utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The POK material in the Mahjong provides a smooth and durable switch experience, creating a clacky sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate in the Mint results in a sharper and higher-pitched sound, ideal for RGB lighting effects. While both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, the different top housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles and tactile feels.
In terms of sound profile, the Mahjong's POK top housing offers a smoother and clackier typing experience, while the Mint's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and more resonant sound. The POK material's wear resistance and shock resistance surpass those of polycarbonate, making the Mahjong more durable in comparison. However, both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of classic switch materials. Overall, the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of each switch.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is evident that they each contribute unique qualities to the switches. The bottom housing, made of nylon in both cases, absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound profile, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing material, whether POK in the Mahjong or polycarbonate in the Mint, has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released, leading to distinct sound profiles between the two switches. By understanding the roles of each housing material, users can choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch reveals some interesting points. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the force needed to register a keystroke. However, the bottom out force of the Mahjong switch is unknown, while the Mint switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is considered medium-light. This indicates that the Mint switch may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the Mahjong switch. In terms of weight, the Mint switch is the heavier option, which could appeal to users looking for a more solid feel while typing. Conversely, the Mahjong switch's weight is unknown, but users who prefer a lighter typing experience may find it to be a better fit for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, as well as the desired weight of the keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Mint linear switch that has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mahjong offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Mint provides a more substantial keypress feel with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or prefer a more tactile typing experience with greater depth. In this case, the Dareu Mahjong would be the shorter travel distance option while the KTT Mint would be the longer travel distance option. Both options offer distinct advantages, so the decision would depend on the individual's typing style and preferences.
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 Mint comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. It provides a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making it versatile for various typing needs. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound, which gives a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Mahjong switch delivering a lively and poppy sound signature, while the Mint switch gives a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. It also offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable to most users with its safe, middle-ground qualities. Additionally, the switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish that enhances the typing experience by reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. Similarly, the KTT Mint linear switch also offers a mild typing experience, making it suitable for a wide range of users. It is polished as well, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Mahjong and KTT Mint linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. While the Mahjong switch provides a neutral sound profile and a bouncy, polished typing feel, the Mint switch offers a low-pitched sound and a mild, polished typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, but either option is sure to deliver a satisfying 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. These switches offer a bouncy and polished feel that is both fun and comfortable for typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and light typing experience with a satisfying thockiness, the KTT Mint linear switch would be more suitable for you. The Mint switches have a low-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished feel that is gentle and approachable. Ultimately, your decision between the Mahjong and Mint switches will depend on whether you prioritize a lively and unique typing experience or a smooth and satisfying one.
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