Dareu Mahjong vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, you have two distinct options to consider. The Dareu Mahjong switch stands out with its unique green and white color scheme, offering a lively and poppy sound signature along with an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch is favored by those who enjoy a bouncy typing feel, featuring a clean and clacky sound profile. While the Mahjong switch is classified as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Polished', the Polaris Gray switch falls into the categories of 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Polished'. Both switches bring their own set of strengths to the table, offering different typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. 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
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, it is evident that they both prioritize sound quality and durability. The Mahjong's POK top housing offers smooth and clacky switches with exceptional strength and wear resistance, while the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent polycarbonate of the Polaris Gray is ideal for RGB lighting, whereas the POK material of the Mahjong provides a sleek and modern look. Both materials excel in providing a reliable and long-lasting housing for switches.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials of these two switches, there is a notable difference in sound profiles. The Mahjong's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound due to its stiffer composition. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate bottom housing complements the top housing in enhancing the overall look of the switch, while the nylon bottom housing of the Mahjong adds a classic touch to its sound profile.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Mahjong and the SP-Star Polaris Gray utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both aim to provide a unique sound experience for users. The qualities of each housing material play a significant role in determining the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the switch. Whether it be the smooth and clacky switches of the Mahjong or the sharper and crisper switches of the Polaris Gray, both switches offer a reliable and durable housing solution for enthusiasts seeking high-quality switches with distinct sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is evident that they have different actuation force and bottom out force characteristics. The Mahjong has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more responsive to lighter touches, while the Polaris Gray's actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more solid typing experience compared to the Mahjong's unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mahjong would be the preferred choice, whereas the Polaris Gray would be suitable for individuals who prefer a heavier push feel. Both switches offer unique benefits based on individual preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is clear that the Mahjong has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Polaris Gray's 4 mm. The Mahjong's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the longer travel distance of the Polaris Gray may provide a more satisfying depth to key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness. However, both switches fall within the range of travel distances that are commonly used in mechanical keyboards, providing a similar typing experience overall.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 Mahjong linear switch offers a neutral profile with a moderate yet lively and poppy sound signature, making them versatile for various typing purposes. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch delivers a low-pitched, clean, and clacky sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to the Mahjong. Both switches provide different sound experiences, with the Mahjong having a more vibrant sound while the Polaris Gray offers a cleaner and clackier tone.
Moving on to the feel, the Mahjong linear switch is described as bouncy, mild, and polished, providing a lively and elastic feedback sensation with a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience with a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience with different levels of bounciness, smoothness, and gentle feedback.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch present distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mahjong switch offers a poppy sound with a bouncy feel, the Polaris Gray switch provides a clean and clacky sound with a mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles, typing sensations, and overall typing experience desired. However, users can expect similar satisfactory results in terms of quality construction and performance from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with a distinctive color scheme, a more lively and poppy sound, and a bouncy typing experience, then the Mahjong switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a clean and clacky sound profile, and a polished typing experience, then the Polaris Gray switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and requirements.
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