Dareu Mahjong vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Dareu Mahjong and the Cherry MX Brown. The Dareu Mahjong features unique green and white switches that deliver a lively, poppy sound and an effortless typing experience. With a categorization of ['Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Polished'], these switches appeal to those who enjoy a tactile yet smooth typing feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches are well-known for their subtlety, offering a light typing experience with gentle tactility and muted audio feedback. Categorized as ['Textured', 'Bassy', 'Low-pitched'], these switches are ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. 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
55g
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
No
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 comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Cherry MX Brown, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon as their bottom housing material. This means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a similar experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The nylon material in both switches is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound than harder plastics. This results in a typing experience that is pleasant and satisfying for users who prefer a quieter switch.
However, where the two switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Mahjong features a POK top housing, which is known for its exceptional smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction slightly higher than LY, the POK material contributes to smooth and clacky switches that are built to last. On the other hand, the MX Brown utilizes a nylon top housing, which also provides a smooth typing experience but with a different sound profile. The nylon material in the MX Brown absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing.
Overall, while both switches share a similar bottom housing material, their top housing materials give them distinct characteristics. The Dareu Mahjong's POK top housing emphasizes smoothness and durability, while the Cherry MX Brown's nylon top housing focuses on creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Depending on the user's preference for smoothness, sound profile, and durability, they can choose between the two switches based on these key differences in housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Mahjong has an unknown bottom out force, while the MX Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. This means that the MX Brown switch requires slightly more force to fully press the key compared to the Mahjong switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mahjong switch may be more suitable, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the MX Brown switch due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the MX Brown has a longer travel distance compared to the Mahjong. The difference may not seem significant, but for some users, it can affect the typing or gaming experience. Typically, a shorter travel distance can result in faster response times, which gamers might prefer. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying keypress for those who enjoy a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 that is moderate and suitable for various purposes, providing a lively and poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. The Mahjong switch may be more versatile in different environments, while the MX Brown switch delivers a more profound auditory experience with its emphasis on bass tones.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch provides a bouncy and mild typing experience, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation and approachable qualities that fall in a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the polished finish of the Mahjong switch ensures smooth key travel with reduced friction for an overall sleek typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is described as providing a textured feel, with noticeable friction when pressed. This may cater to users who prefer a slightly rougher typing experience compared to the smoother Mahjong switch.
Considering the available information, the Mahjong linear switch from Dareu offers a more versatile sound profile with a lively and poppy sound signature, while providing a bouncy and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch delivers a deeper and richer auditory experience with a bassy sound profile, coupled with a textured feel for those seeking a bit of friction during typing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and a unique sound signature that is lively and poppy, the Mahjong switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force, gentle tactility, and subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing. Both switches offer their own distinct characteristics, so it's important to choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
