Dareu Mahjong vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, some key differences come to light. The Mahjong switch, with its distinctive green and white color scheme, offers a lively and poppy typing experience, while the Red Panda switch provides a light-medium amount of tactility with a unique raindrop-like bottom-out sound. The Mahjong switch is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', while the Red Panda switch falls into the categories of 'Thocky' and 'Mild'. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that may appeal to 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
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
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The Dareu Mahjong and Outemu Red Panda both feature top housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Mahjong's POK top housing is known for its smoothness and durability, providing a clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Red Panda's polycarbonate top housing is stiffer, creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. While both materials are top choices for making switches, they offer different sound characteristics due to their unique properties.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials of the Mahjong and Red Panda, both switches feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Because both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, the typing experience for users will have similarities in terms of sound and feel, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. While the Mahjong and Red Panda differ in their top housing materials with POK and polycarbonate respectively, they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. Whether you prefer a smoother and clacky sound or a sharper and higher-pitched sound, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in creating a unique typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Mahjong is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Red Panda's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Red Panda is heavier at 60 grams while the Mahjong's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Red Panda will provide a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force, while the Mahjong may allow for longer typing sessions due to its lighter actuation force. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their force requirements, catering to individuals who prefer either a lighter or heavier feel while typing. Ultimately, selecting 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, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. Choosing between the two really comes down to personal preference - if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Red Panda with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the better option. However, if you enjoy a bit more depth to your key press, the Dareu Mahjong with its slightly longer travel distance could be the one for you. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, so you can expect a comparable experience with either one.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a thocky sound, which is deep and satisfying. The sound of both switches can be further influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Mahjong switch provides a bouncy and lively typing experience with a mild overall sensation, as well as a polished finish for smooth key travel. Similarly, the Outemu Red Panda switch also offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable for most users.
Overall, both switches offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dareu Mahjong switch boasts a lively sound and bouncy feel, the Outemu Red Panda switch provides a deeper, thocky sound and a mild typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and intended use, either switch can be a great choice for a mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual taste and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider your preferences carefully. If you value a unique, poppy sound signature and effortless typing experience, the Mahjong switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light-medium amount of tactility alongside a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, the Red Panda switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force to determine which switch aligns best with your needs. Whether you choose the Mahjong or the Red Panda, both switches offer their own distinct qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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