Dareu Mahjong vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is evident that they each offer distinct advantages for different types of users. The Mahjong switches are praised for their lively and poppy sound signature, making typing a truly effortless experience. On the other hand, the Silent Grey switches deliver a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. Choosing the Mahjong switch would suit individuals who prefer a bouncy and polished feel, while the Silent Grey switch appeals to those seeking a satisfying and silent typing experience. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Silent Grey, we find that both switches differ in their top housing material. The Mahjong utilizes POK material, known for its smoothness and durability, while the Silent Grey opts for polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The POK material in the Mahjong contributes to a smooth and clacky typing experience, while the polycarbonate top housing in the Silent Grey enhances the sound quality with its stiffer nature. Both materials offer unique benefits, with POK emphasizing smoothness and durability, while polycarbonate highlights sound clarity and resonance.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches share the same material - nylon. Nylon is favored for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, regardless of whether you're using the Mahjong or the Silent Grey, typing on switches with nylon bottom housing will elicit a similar experience in terms of sound profile. This consistency in material for the bottom housing ensures that users can expect a similar tactile and auditory experience, regardless of the switch they choose.
Overall, the choice between the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Silent Grey comes down to personal preference in terms of the sound and feel you desire. The POK material in the Mahjong offers a smooth and durable typing experience, while the polycarbonate top housing in the Silent Grey enhances sound clarity and resonance. However, both switches share the nylon bottom housing, providing a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether you prioritize smoothness, durability, or sound profile, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the world of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is clear that the Silent Grey is the heavier option. The Mahjong has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Silent Grey requires 50 grams to actuate. The bottom out force of the Mahjong is unknown, while the Silent Grey has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mahjong may be the better choice, as it requires less force to actuate. However, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Silent Grey would be the preferred option. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to individuals' preferences for typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Mahjong switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Silent Grey switch may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preference, with the Mahjong offering a quicker key press and the Silent Grey providing a deeper tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Silent Grey 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer different experiences. The Mahjong switches are described as having a lively, poppy sound signature, while the Silent Grey switches are known for being quiet. The Mahjong switches are categorized as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the Silent Grey switches' sound profile is not specified, but they are designed to provide a silent typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Mahjong linear switch and the Silent Grey tactile switch also provide distinct tactile sensations. The Mahjong switches are described as offering a bouncy and mild typing experience. The keys provide a spring-like feedback and a gentle typing feel, making them suitable for a range of users. Additionally, the Mahjong switches are noted for their polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel. On the other hand, the feel of the Silent Grey switches is not specified. However, they are praised for their tactile feedback and smooth keystroke, giving users a satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities. While the Mahjong switches provide a lively and poppy sound signature along with a bouncy and polished typing feel, the Silent Grey switches are designed for a quiet and highly tactile typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference, with both switches offering distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. If you prefer a more vibrant sound and bouncy feel, the Mahjong switches may be the right choice, while those seeking a quiet and tactile experience may opt for the Silent Grey switches. Ultimately, with either switch, you can expect a reliable and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a lively, bouncy typing experience with a poppy sound, the Mahjong switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump, the Silent Grey switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.