Dareu Mahjong vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the dareu Mahjong linear switch to the Outemu Maple leaf tactile switch, it's clear that each offers unique features and benefits for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Mahjong switches stand out with their distinctive green and white color scheme, providing a lively and poppy sound signature while offering an effortless typing experience. Categorized as bouncy, mild, neutral, and polished, the Mahjong switch is ideal for those seeking a smooth and consistent keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple leaf switch doesn't have a standout feature like the Mahjong's color scheme but offers a tactile feedback that some users prefer. While the Maple leaf switch lacks a specific categorization, its tactile response can provide a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a bit of feedback. 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
2.30 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 Maple Leaf, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deep and full sound profile due to its softer plastic nature. The bottom housing of both switches contributes to creating a duller and rounder sound upon actuation. While both switches share this common feature, the different designs and structures of the switches may result in variations in sound and feel.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the two switches differ, with the Dareu Mahjong incorporating POK material and the Outemu Maple Leaf using nylon. The POK material of the Mahjong is renowned for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance, making it an excellent choice for creating smooth, clacky, and durable switches. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its sound-absorbing properties. Despite the differences in material, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience with their top housing designs.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a mechanical switch plays a crucial role in determining its sound profile, feel, and durability. While the Dareu Mahjong and Outemu Maple Leaf switches have differing top housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether it be the smoothness and durability of POK material in the Mahjong or the sound-enhancing properties of nylon in the Maple Leaf, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. The Mahjong switch does not provide information on its bottom out force, while the Maple Leaf switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Mahjong switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Maple Leaf switch. Both switches provide distinct tactile experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, with the Mahjong offering a lighter touch and the Maple Leaf providing a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feedback and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for gamers seeking faster response times. However, the Mahjong switch is slightly longer than the Maple Leaf switch by 0.1 mm. This difference may not be significant for most users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper keystroke feel, the Maple Leaf switch may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 Maple Leaf 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 is known for its lively and poppy sound signature, making typing a vibrant experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is not detailed, so it is hard to make a direct comparison. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is described as bouncy, mild, and polished, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth typing experience. This combination results in a comfortable and approachable typing feel that should suit most users. Unfortunately, information about the feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is not provided, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect.
Overall, if you enjoy a switch with a lively sound profile and bouncy, polished feel, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch would be a great choice. However, if a tactile switch is more to your liking and you prefer a different sound profile and typing feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf may be worth considering. Remember to also take into account other factors such as personal preference and the overall keyboard setup when choosing the right switch for your needs.
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 for you. With its bouncy and polished feel, these switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a moderate sound profile, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so consider what features are most important to you when making your choice.
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