Dareu Mahjong vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options to examine are the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron New North Pole V2. The Mahjong features distinctive green and white switches that offer a lively and poppy sound, along with an effortless typing experience. Categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', this switch is known for its unique feel and aesthetics. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 from Gateron provides a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, while still maintaining a frictionless typing feel that users enjoy. Categorized as 'Polished', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless', these switches offer a smooth and seamless glide during use. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making them both solid choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. 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
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron New North Pole V2, one noticeable difference is in the top housing material. The Mahjong uses POK material, known for its smoothness and durability, creating a smooth and clacky switch experience. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 utilizes polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both materials offer unique benefits, they provide distinct tactile and auditory experiences for users.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Mahjong features a nylon bottom housing that enhances the sound profile by providing a deeper and fuller sound experience. The nylon material's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. Conversely, the New North Pole V2 employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate helps create a clear and resonant sound, complementing the characteristics of the top housing for an overall tactile typing experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron New North Pole V2, both switches offer distinct advantages based on their material composition. The split between top and bottom housing qualities means that pressing down on the switch will showcase the characteristics of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, releasing the key will emphasize the impact of the top housing material on the sound profile. Whether seeking a smooth and clacky typing experience with POK material or a sharp and resonant sound profile with polycarbonate, users can choose a switch based on their preferences for tactile feedback and sound aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, we see that the Mahjong is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the New North Pole V2 at 50 grams. However, the Mahjong does not provide information on its bottom out force, while the New North Pole V2 has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, indicating a heavier typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Mahjong for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may prefer the New North Pole V2. In both cases, users can expect a different typing experience based on the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is 3.4 mm, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dareu Mahjong has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron New North Pole V2. The shorter travel distance of the Mahjong switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the New North Pole V2 may provide a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience. Both switches offer a different typing experience and choosing between the two will come down to individual preference.
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 New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch's sound profile is unknown, so it may provide a different acoustic experience compared to the Mahjong. However, it is important to remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard used and the keycaps installed.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is described as bouncy, mild, and polished, offering a lively and smooth typing experience with a gentle rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is also described as polished, creamy, and frictionless, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance and effortless key travel. Both switches prioritize smoothness and refined finishes, ensuring a sleek and enjoyable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offer unique and desirable qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mahjong switch provides a neutral sound profile and a bouncy typing experience, the New North Pole V2 switch offers a smooth and creamy sound profile with a frictionless typing feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, either switch could provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, both switches aim to deliver a seamless typing performance that meets the expectations of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and a bouncy, polished feel with a lively sound signature, the Mahjong may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force, a polished, creamy feel, and a frictionless typing experience, the New North Pole V2 could be the better option. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
