Dareu Mahjong vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong with its distinctive green and white color scheme and lively, poppy sound signature, to the Outemu Lotus, a linear switch with a more neutral typing experience, one must consider their individual qualities. The Mahjong, known for its bouncy and polished feel, offers an effortless typing experience ideal for those seeking a dynamic and responsive switch. On the other hand, the Lotus, although lacking a unique highlight, provides a more mild and neutral typing experience suited for those who prefer a smooth and consistent feel. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Lotus, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Although both switches feature nylon as the material for their bottom housings, the specific design and construction of each switch may still result in variations in sound and feel.
On the other hand, the top housings of the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Lotus differ in material composition, with the Mahjong utilizing POK and the Lotus featuring nylon. POK, also known as polyketone, offers exceptional smoothness and durability for switches. With a coefficient of friction slightly higher than LY, POK provides a smooth and clacky typing experience while also being highly wear-resistant and shock-resistant. In contrast, nylon top housings, as seen in the Outemu Lotus, contribute to a deeper sound profile that is fuller and richer in tone. This difference in material composition for the top housings may result in distinct typing experiences between the two switches.
While both switches share similarities in utilizing nylon for their bottom housings, the contrasting top housing materials of POK in the Dareu Mahjong and nylon in the Outemu Lotus result in different sound profiles and typing experiences. The POK top housing of the Mahjong offers smoothness, durability, and a clacky feel, while the nylon top housing of the Lotus creates a deeper and fuller sound. The qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switches, impacting both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Lotus will depend on the individual's preference for typing experience and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Mahjong switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Lotus switch has an even lighter actuation force of 35 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lotus switch requires a heavier force of 50 grams, whereas the Mahjong switch's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Mahjong switch may provide a lighter typing experience overall compared to the Lotus switch due to its lower actuation force. For those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Lotus switch may be the better option due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which is popular among gamers for faster response times. However, the Mahjong switch is slightly longer than the Lotus switch by 0.1 mm. This difference may not be noticeable to most users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Mahjong switch may be more suitable. In general, both switches offer a relatively quick and responsive typing experience due to their shorter travel distances. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth.
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 Lotus 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 Mahjong linear switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes, giving a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, details on the sound profile of the Lotus linear switch are unavailable. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Mahjong linear switch is known for its bouncy and lively typing experience, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that provides rebound when keys are pressed. Additionally, it is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience, making it approachable to most users. However, information on the feel of the Lotus linear switch is not provided.
Considering the available information, if you are looking for a linear switch with a moderate sound profile and a lively, bouncy feel, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch may be a suitable choice. However, since details on the Outemu Lotus linear switch are limited, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, it is recommended that you try out both switches or gather more information to determine which one aligns best with your preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a unique design, lively sound, and bouncy feel, then the Dareu Mahjong switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a more neutral sound profile, the Outemu Lotus switch could be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, so it really comes down to what feels best for you as you type. Happy typing!
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