Dareu Mahjong vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Phoenix offer distinct experiences for users. The Dareu Mahjong boasts its linear switches, known for their lively sound signature and effortless typing experience. With a unique green and white color scheme, these switches are categorized as bouncy, mild, neutral, and polished. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix stands out with its clicky switches that feature an under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crystalline and sparkling typing experience. Categorized as crunchy and polished, these switches offer a unique feel and sound profile. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Mahjong and Outemu Phoenix both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Mahjong utilizing POK for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, while the Phoenix features polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. The POK top housing of the Mahjong provides a smooth and durable experience, with a clacky sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Phoenix creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound with translucency for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Mahjong offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile.
Despite the differences in materials used for the top and bottom housings, both the Dareu Mahjong and Outemu Phoenix focus on creating unique sound profiles and durability in their switches. The POK material in the Mahjong's top housing provides a smooth and clacky typing experience, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Phoenix brings out a sharper and crisper sound profile. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Mahjong enhances sound depth and absorption, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix offers a clear and resonant sound profile. Overall, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound characteristics based on their housing materials.
When comparing the two switches, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of the switches. The Mahjong's combination of POK and nylon creates a balance between smoothness, durability, and sound depth, while the Phoenix's polycarbonate housings prioritize clarity, sharpness, and resonance. While the top and bottom housing materials may differ in each switch, the overall goal of providing a unique and satisfying typing experience remains consistent. Whether you prefer a clacky and durable feel with the Mahjong or a sharp and clear sound profile with the Phoenix, both switches offer distinct qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch reveals some interesting differences. The Mahjong has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Phoenix's actuation force is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Phoenix is heavier at 62 grams compared to the Mahjong's unknown bottom out force. This means that the Mahjong may provide a lighter and easier keystroke, ideal for longer typing sessions, while the Phoenix offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Both switches have their advantages, with the Mahjong being lighter and the Phoenix offering a more sturdy typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two would 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, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal choices for those seeking faster response times, especially in gaming. The slight difference in travel distance may not be significant in terms of feel or performance, as both switches offer a relatively quick and responsive keypress. Ultimately, whether you choose the Dareu Mahjong or the Outemu Phoenix will depend on personal preference for a slightly shorter or longer travel distance, with both options providing a satisfying typing or gaming 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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for various typing purposes. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves, due to its under-skirt click mechanism. The sound of both switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Mahjong switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback when typing. Additionally, it offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, as well as a polished finish for smooth key travel. Similarly, the Phoenix switch is also noted for its polished feel, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience. Both switches prioritize a comfortable and refined feel for users during typing sessions.
Overall, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch differ in their sound profiles, they both offer a polished feel with smooth key travel, making them suitable for users who prefer a comfortable and refined typing experience. Whether you choose the Mahjong for its neutral sound or the Phoenix for its crunchy click, you can expect similar levels of quality and satisfaction in terms of feel and overall performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it all comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you're looking for a unique and lively typing experience with a poppy sound profile, the Mahjong linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more distinctive and crunchy click mechanism with a medium bottom out force, the Phoenix clicky switch might be more suitable for you. Consider your typing style, environment, and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose wisely based on your individual needs and preferences.
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