Dareu Mahjong vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Dareu Mahjong, a linear switch, and the Outemu Milk Tea, a tactile switch. The Mahjong switches stand out with their vibrant green and white color scheme, offering a unique visual appeal. Known for their lively and poppy sound signature, they provide an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switches are praised for their tactile feedback, making them ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke sensation. While the Mahjong switch is categorized as bouncy, mild, neutral, and polished, the Milk Tea switch does not fall under any specific categorizations. When choosing between the two, it ultimately comes down to individual preferences in terms of typing feel and sound. 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
N/A
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
Ly
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 Outemu Milk Tea, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound that adds to the overall typing experience for both switches. While the housing materials for the bottom of both switches are the same, the impact on sound and feel is crucial for enhancing the typing experience.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Milk Tea differ significantly. The Mahjong features a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and durability, contributing to smooth, clacky, and durable switches. On the other hand, the Milk Tea incorporates LY top housing, a newer material that offers a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. The choice of top housing material plays a vital role in the sound produced by the switches, showcasing unique characteristics and enhancing the overall typing experience.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Milk Tea differ, they each bring distinct qualities to the switches to enhance the typing experience. The POK top housing of the Mahjong offers exceptional smoothness and durability, resulting in a satisfying typing feel, while the LY top housing of the Milk Tea provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials in each switch creates a unique and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Weight
Both the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. In terms of weight, both switches are equal, making them suitable for different preferences. The lighter actuation force of 45 grams allows for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue, making them ideal for work or long gaming sessions. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with a heavier actuation force. Overall, the Dareu Mahjong and Outemu Milk Tea switches offer similar actuation forces, catering to a variety of typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch. The Mahjong offers a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast-paced action. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch provides a more substantial feel due to its longer travel distance, appealing to users who enjoy a more deliberate keystroke. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference based on desired responsiveness and key 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 Outemu Milk Tea 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 offers a moderate and versatile profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Its lively and poppy sound signature provides a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, details about the sound profile of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch are unknown. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, users of the Mahjong linear switch praise its bouncy and mild characteristics, offering a spring-like feedback and a gentle typing experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch enhances the overall smoothness of key travel. Conversely, details about the tactile feel of the Outemu Milk Tea switch are not provided. If the feel of these two switches is similar, users can expect a comfortable and approachable typing experience with both options.
In conclusion, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch stands out for its lively sound signature and bouncy, polished feel, providing users with an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. While specific details about the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch are not available, if it offers similar qualities to the Mahjong switch, users can anticipate a similarly pleasant typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, consider the unique features and qualities of each. Opt for the Mahjong if you are looking for a lively typing experience with a poppy sound signature, as well as a neutral feel that offers a bouncy and polished sensation. On the other hand, choose the Milk Tea if you prefer a tactile switch with a moderate actuation force and sound profile, although specific information about sound and feel may not be available. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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