Dareu Mahjong vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch to the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Mahjong switches are known for their distinctive green and white color scheme, providing a lively and poppy sound signature along with an effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon switches showcase a buttery smooth typing experience thanks to their progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. The Mahjong switch is categorized as bouncy, mild, neutral, and polished, while the Sea Salt Lemon switch falls under low-pitched, neutral, and mild. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Mahjong and KTT Sea Salt Lemon both have unique housing materials that contribute to their overall switch performance. The Mahjong features a POK top housing known for its smoothness, durability, and clacky feel. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon utilizes a polycarbonate top housing to create a sharper, crisper sound profile ideal for RGB lighting. While both housings offer different sound profiles, the Mahjong's top housing focuses on smoothness and durability, while the Sea Salt Lemon's top housing prioritizes clarity and resonance.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Dareu Mahjong and KTT Sea Salt Lemon use nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material means that both switches offer a similar typing experience with a deeper sound profile. However, the top housing materials of POK and polycarbonate still play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Dareu Mahjong and KTT Sea Salt Lemon highlights the importance of material selection in customizing switch performance. While both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, the differences in top housing materials (POK vs. polycarbonate) result in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. Whether you prioritize smoothness and durability (Mahjong) or sharpness and clarity (Sea Salt Lemon), the housing materials of each switch contribute uniquely to their overall performance.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial key response. However, the Dareu Mahjong does not have a specified bottom out force, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it slightly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Dareu Mahjong may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the KTT Sea Salt Lemon due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing pressure and key feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is clear that the Mahjong has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sea Salt Lemon has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking quicker response times. Choosing the Mahjong with its shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a more responsive feel, while the Sea Salt Lemon with its longer travel distance could offer a more substantial keypress experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 KTT Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a more neutral and moderate sound profile, suitable for various purposes and users. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch provides a low-pitched tone, giving off a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches, though different in sound, offer a pleasant typing experience that can be further influenced by your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Mahjong switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback that gives a lively feel to typing. Additionally, it is considered mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone of switch characteristics. The switch is also polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Overall, while the Dareu Mahjong and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches have their distinct sound and feel characteristics, they both offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you choose the Mahjong for its lively sound and bouncy feel or the Sea Salt Lemon for its mellow sound and buttery smoothness, you can expect a quality typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a unique and lively typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched and mellow sound profile, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound. Consider your priorities and choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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