Dareu Mahjong vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple

Overview

When comparing the Dareu Mahjong's linear switch with the SP-Star Polaris Purple's tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique traits that cater to different preferences. The Mahjong switches stand out with their distinctive green and white color scheme, providing a lively and poppy sound signature along with an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switches offer a big tactile bump, resulting in an exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. While the Mahjong switch is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Polished', the Polaris Purple switch falls under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own appeal and distinct qualities that may suit various typing styles and 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

Dareu Mahjong Linear

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$8.89

$5.79 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, we can see that the Mahjong utilizes POK material for its top housing, while the Polaris Purple incorporates polycarbonate. The POK material is known for its smoothness and durability, contributing to a clacky sound profile and long-lasting switches. On the other hand, the polycarbonate used in the Polaris Purple creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, particularly beneficial for switches with clear housing for RGB lighting. While the POK material focuses on smoothness and durability, the polycarbonate emphasizes sound clarity and resonance.

Moving on to the bottom housings of the two switches, we see that the Mahjong uses nylon for its bottom housing, while the Polaris Purple features polycarbonate. Nylon is praised for its ability to create a deep and full sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the stiffer polycarbonate used in the Polaris Purple's bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, aligning with its overall emphasis on clear and resonant sound. While the nylon bottom housing prioritizes a fuller sound, the polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the clarity and pitch of the switch's sound.

Considering how the top and bottom housings impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is clear that the material choices in the Dareu Mahjong and the SP-Star Polaris Purple play a significant role in defining their performance. The split between the POK material and nylon in the Mahjong results in a switch that offers a balance of smoothness, durability, and deep sound, whereas the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate top and bottom housings prioritize clear and crisp sound with a higher pitch. Understanding how these materials influence the sound profiles and overall typing experience can help users make informed choices based on their preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboards.

Weight

In comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Mahjong has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Polaris Purple, where the actuation force is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Polaris Purple is heavier with 67 grams, while the Mahjong's bottom out force is not specified. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Mahjong for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Polaris Purple due to its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer differing levels of force feedback, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences.

Travel distance

The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, the Mahjong offers a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer this for quick movements and actions during gameplay. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying and tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a quicker response or a more substantial key press feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the Dareu Mahjong and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making them suitable for various typing environments. The Mahjong switches are noted for their lively and vibrant poppy sound signature, while the Polaris Purple switches have a snappy sound profile. It's important to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Mahjong is described as offering a bouncy typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Additionally, they are noted for their mild and polished characteristics, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches are also described as having a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. They are also polished switches, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience.

In conclusion, both the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both provide a neutral sound profile suitable for various environments and a mild typing experience that is comfortable for most users. Additionally, they both have polished finishes that contribute to a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as they both offer comparable results in these aspects.

Conclusion

In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and a lively, poppy sound signature, the Mahjong may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and an exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple could be the better option. Both switches offer neutral sound profiles suitable for various settings, but the Mahjong provides a bouncy and mild typing feel while the Polaris Purple offers a polished and mild typing experience. Consider your desired typing experience and sound preference when making your decision between these two unique switches.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Mahjong Linear

$8.89

$5.79 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more