Dareu Mahjong vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Mahjong and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics for different typing experiences. The Mahjong switch stands out with its distinctive green and white color scheme, providing a lively and poppy sound signature while delivering an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its long, two-staged spring, resulting in deep and resonating thocks while typing. The Mahjong switch is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', whereas the Shadow switch is described as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped'. Both switches have their strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, we can see that both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Mahjong utilizes POK material for its top housing, known for its smoothness and durability, while it uses nylon for the bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its clear and resonant sound profile, and a polycarbonate bottom housing, for a sharper and crisper sound. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize sound quality, with each housing material contributing to the overall typing experience in a unique way.
One key distinction between the housing materials of the two switches is the impact on sound profile and feel. The POK top housing of the Mahjong creates a smooth and clacky feel, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate housing of the Shadow switch allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the typing experience. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Mahjong provides a deeper sound profile, contrasting with the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow switch.
While both switches prioritize durability and offer a unique typing experience, the choice between the Dareu Mahjong and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer a smoother and clackier feel with the Mahjong's POK top housing or a sharper and crisper sound with the Shadow switch's polycarbonate housing, each switch offers a distinct typing experience. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches aim to provide a high-quality and satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, one noticeable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Mahjong has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow's 55 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes on the Mahjong. However, the bottom out force for the Shadow is 63 grams, which provides a more substantial typing experience compared to the Mahjong, where the bottom out force is unknown. This means that those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Mahjong for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Shadow for a heavier typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mahjong offers a quicker response time and is preferred by gamers looking for a more responsive key press. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a deeper key press experience that some may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 is known for its neutral profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and sound. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and regardless of your environment. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, resulting in a sharp and crisp typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can be influenced by factors such as keyboard and keycap choices.
Moving on to the feel, the Mahjong switch is described as bouncy, mild, and polished, providing a lively and elastic feedback sensation with a smooth and refined typing experience. This switch offers a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable due to its balanced qualities. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped feel. This switch offers a strong and crisp tactile bump with responsive typing experience and distinct stages during keystrokes.
Overall, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mahjong switch provides a moderate and neutral sound profile with a bouncy and polished feel, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a sharp and distinct tactile feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, both switches offer distinct characteristics that can enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience. If you enjoy lively and elastic feedback, the Mahjong switch may be more suitable for you, whereas if you prefer sharp and crisp feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a great choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lively, poppy sound with effortless typing, the Mahjong switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your typing experience. Choose wisely to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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