Dareu Mahjong vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, some key differences emerge. The Mahjong switches are praised for their distinctive green and white color scheme, offering a lively and poppy sound signature along with an effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Purple Sakura switches are known for their snappy response and decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility that is pronounced yet not overpowering. While the Mahjong switch is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Polished', the Purple Sakura switch falls under 'Buttery' and 'Snappy'. Both switches have a mild and neutral sound signature, making them suitable for various typing 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Mahjong and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall performance and sound of the switches. The Mahjong utilizes a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and durability, while the Purple Sakura features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials are strong and contribute to a pleasant typing experience, the POK material offers a smoother feel while the polycarbonate material provides a higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Mahjong and the Purple Sakura use nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Although the bottom housing material is the same for both switches, the qualities it brings to the typing experience are essential as they play a significant role in the sound and feel of the switch. The nylon bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
While both the Dareu Mahjong and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura feature different top and bottom housing materials, the overall typing experience they offer is somewhat similar due to the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing. The POK and polycarbonate top housings, however, provide distinct characteristics that set the switches apart in terms of smoothness and sound profile. Regardless of the differences in materials, both switches are designed to offer users a durable, smooth, and enjoyable typing experience, making them both excellent choices for those seeking high-quality switches for their keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Mahjong is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams, while the Purple Sakura requires a higher force of 50 grams to actuate. When it comes to bottom out force, the Mahjong's force is unknown, while the Purple Sakura has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Mahjong may provide a slightly lighter typing experience compared to the Purple Sakura. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Mahjong may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may find the Purple Sakura to be more suitable due to its higher actuation force and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and force requirement.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, the Mahjong has a travel distance of 3.4 mm while the Purple Sakura has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Mahjong being marginally longer may provide a slightly more satisfying depth when pressed compared to the Purple Sakura. However, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance that can cater to those who prefer a quick and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress 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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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, both the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound level that is suitable for various settings, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and regardless of whether you are using the switches at home or in a work environment. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Mahjong linear switch is described as bouncy, mild, and polished. This means that it provides a spring-like, lively typing sensation with a gentle touch and a smooth, refined finish for a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura tactile switch is described as buttery, mild, and snappy. This indicates that it offers a smooth, fluid keystroke experience with a gentle touch, while providing a responsive and lively typing sensation.
Ultimately, both the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mahjong switch provides a lively and poppy sound with an effortless typing experience, while the Purple Sakura switch offers a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience. If you are looking for a similar sound experience, both switches have a neutral sound profile, ensuring that you will get comparable results in that aspect.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a bouncy, lively typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Mahjong switches may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth, buttery downstroke with a snappy response and a more neutral sound profile, the Purple Sakura switches would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what feels most comfortable to you. Whether you go for the Mahjong for its unique color scheme and lively feel, or the Purple Sakura for its smooth tactility and responsive feedback, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience tailored to different preferences.