Dareu Mahjong vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong and the HC Studio Roselle mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Mahjong switches from Dareu are distinguishable by their green and white color scheme, providing a lively poppy sound signature and an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Roselle switches from HC Studio offer an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing sensation, with a subtle low-pitched sound signature. While the Mahjong switches are categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Roselle switches are labeled as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Each switch brings its own set of qualities that may appeal to different users based on their 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Mahjong and the HC Studio Roselle feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound and feel. The Mahjong utilizes POK for its top housing, providing smoothness, durability, and a clacky feel. On the other hand, the Roselle uses POM for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer their own benefits, the POK in the Mahjong is known for its exceptional strength and wear resistance, while the POM in the Roselle creates a distinct sound profile that appeals to many users.
In terms of bottom housing, the Mahjong incorporates nylon which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Roselle also features a POM bottom housing, contributing to the switch's unique sound profile that leans towards deeper tones and muted characteristics. While both materials differ in their composition, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing a satisfying sound and feel that caters to individual preferences.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Mahjong and the HC Studio Roselle, both switches deliver high-quality performance and unique sound profiles. The split between top and bottom housings in each switch allows for a combination of qualities to be experienced during typing. Whether it's the smoothness and durability of POK in the Mahjong or the distinctive sound profile of POM in the Roselle, users can expect a satisfying typing experience that meets their specific preferences based on the housing materials used in each keyboard.
Weight
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mahjong's force is unknown while the Roselle's bottom out force is 52 grams, making it medium-light. This means that while both switches have the same actuation force, the Roselle requires slightly more force to bottom out compared to the Mahjong. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Mahjong for longer typing sessions, while others might opt for the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Roselle for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular in the market, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. A shorter travel distance, like the one on the Mahjong switch, can provide this quicker response, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the slightly longer travel distance of the Roselle switch may offer a more substantial feeling when typing, which some users may prefer for a more traditional typing experience. Overall, both switches offer relatively short travel distances, catering to those who prioritize fast response times, with the Roselle switch providing a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a more robust tactile 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 HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound signature that offers a deeper and richer tone during key presses. This difference in sound profiles can greatly affect the typing experience and overall ambiance, depending on user preferences and the surrounding environment.
When it comes to feel, the Mahjong switch is known for its bouncy and mild typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback that offers a lively feel when typing. In contrast, the Roselle switch is described as offering a frictionless and mild typing experience, providing an extremely smooth and effortless feel with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the specific sensation and feedback may vary based on personal preference.
Overall, the Dareu Mahjong and HC Studio Roselle linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mahjong switch provides a neutral sound profile and a bouncy typing experience, the Roselle switch offers a bassy sound signature and a frictionless typing sensation. Choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Regardless of the choice, both switches are designed to deliver a satisfying typing experience for users.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, you should consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a distinctive color scheme, lively sound signature, and bouncy feel, the Mahjong might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and ethereally wispy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Roselle would be a better option. Ultimately, your decision should depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or other specific qualities in a mechanical keyboard switch. Consider your preferences and typing style to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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