Dareu Mahjong vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Dustproof Purple offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Mahjong switches, characterized by their vibrant green and white color scheme, provide users with a lively and poppy sound signature, creating an engaging typing experience that many users find delightful. They are classified as 'Bouncy,' 'Mild,' 'Neutral,' and 'Polished,' making them a great choice for those who appreciate a smooth, linear feel without the tactile feedback. On the other hand, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple lacks a specific defining feature, its tactile design appeals to users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback at the actuation point, enhancing the typing experience for those who value precision and a more deliberate keystroke response. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Dustproof Purple, it is evident that the two switches are constructed using different top housing materials. The Mahjong utilizes POK material, known for its exceptionally smooth texture, high durability, and remarkable shock resistance. With a coefficient of friction slightly higher than that of LY, it enhances the switch's clacky sound profile while ensuring longevity through wear resistance 14 times stronger than POM. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This material is also popular for its translucency, making it an ideal choice for RGB lighting applications, thus giving the Dustproof Purple a more visually appealing aesthetic combined with a distinctive auditory signature.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon, as a classic switch material, elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, contributing to a delightful typing experience characterized by a rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing means that the auditory impact of both switches during typing will share the characteristic richness that nylon imparts. Therefore, while the top housings define the switches' tonal differences, the nylon bottoms ensure that both switches retain a certain level of warmth in sound when bottoming out.
Overall, the combination of different top housing materials in the Mahjong and Outemu Dustproof Purple creates a unique interplay of sound characteristics and tactile experiences. The Mahjong, with its POK top housing, leans towards a smooth and clacky performance, while the Dustproof Purple's polycarbonate offers clarity and brightness. However, thanks to the nylon bottom housing shared by both switches, there is an underlying consistency in sound quality that merges these distinctions. Consequently, gamers and typists can expect varying audio and tactile sensations depending on which switch they choose, making both options appealing for different preferences in sound and feel while maintaining an enjoyable, rich auditory foundation.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, there's a notable difference in their actuation forces. The Mahjong switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option, while the Dustproof Purple requires a heavier 55 grams to actuate. This lighter actuation force of the Mahjong might appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use in work or gaming scenarios. However, the bottom out force for the Mahjong is unknown, so we cannot directly compare it with the Dustproof Purple's bottom out force of 65 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy. Consequently, while the Mahjong switch is designed for ease of activation, the Dustproof Purple provides a more substantial feel, especially when fully pressed down, catering to those who appreciate a heavier push in their tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, we find distinct differences. The Mahjong linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dustproof Purple switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mahjong's shorter travel distance appeals to gamers seeking faster response times, allowing for more rapid key presses. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple's longer travel distance aligns with traditional preferences, offering a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users find more satisfying. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Mahjong would be the better choice, while those who appreciate a deeper keystroke may prefer the Dustproof Purple switch.
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 Outemu Dustproof Purple comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch stands out with a lively, poppy sound signature that enhances the overall typing experience. This switch is neutral, which means it strikes a balance with moderate actuation force and sound profile, making it versatile for both beginners and experienced typists alike. It is well-suited for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch has no established sound characteristics detailed in the provided information. This uncertainty does not allow for a direct comparison in sound, though it is essential to note that the acoustic experience can also be heavily influenced by the keyboard's construction and accompanying keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Mahjong switches are characterized by a bouncy and mild tactile feedback that provides a pleasantly elastic sensation upon pressing. These switches are polished, ensuring a smooth key travel that minimizes friction for a refined and enjoyable typing experience. This combination makes for a typing feel that is approachable and enjoyable for various users. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch lacks any specific descriptors concerning its feel, which leaves an unknown aspect when contrasting it with the Mahjong. Therefore, it is difficult to ascertain how the tactile experience of the Dustproof Purple compares to the vibrant and polished feel of the Mahjong switches.
In conclusion, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch distinguishes itself with its lively sound and refined feel, making it a solid choice for a pleasant typing experience. While the sound quality of the Outemu Dustproof Purple is not specified, its tactile qualities remain similarly undefined, leaving an area of comparison missing. For those seeking a balanced sound and satisfying feel, the Mahjong is a commendable option, whereas the Dustproof Purple's characteristics remain ambiguous, making it hard to determine how it would match up as an alternative.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, consider your typing style and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth, effortless typing experience coupled with a lively sound profile, the Mahjong switch is ideal, especially for casual typing or gaming, where quick and responsive feedback is key. Its bouncy and polished characteristics make it suitable for extended typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a more notable tactile feedback and a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Outemu Dustproof Purple would better suit your needs—particularly if you enjoy the sensation of being able to feel each keystroke as you type. Although specifics on sound and other tactile characteristics of the Dustproof Purple are not outlined, the nature of tactile switches generally caters well to those who appreciate a richer physical response while typing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value the light and airy feel of the Mahjong or the more pronounced tactile experience of the Dustproof Purple.
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