Dareu Mahjong vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch with the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we find two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Mahjong switches stand out with their vibrant green and white color scheme, offering a lively and poppy sound signature along with an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches provide a comfortable typing feel with a light-medium resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, all while maintaining a muted sound profile. While the Mahjong switch may appeal to those seeking a bouncy and neutral typing experience, the Silent Brown switch caters to those looking for a buttery and polished tactile feedback. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Both the Dareu Mahjong and the TTC Silent Brown switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall performance and sound profile of the switches. The Mahjong's POK top housing is known for its smoothness and durability, with a coefficient of friction slightly higher than LY. On the other hand, the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, particularly beneficial for switches with clear housing and RGB lighting. While both materials offer durability and impact resistance, they differ in their sound profiles, with POK providing a smoother and clacky sound, and polycarbonate offering a higher-pitched and resonant sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Mahjong and the Silent Brown switches utilize nylon, a classic choice known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housing. Despite being the same material, the bottom housing of each switch may have a varying impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. This demonstrates how subtle differences in housing materials, even within the same category, can affect the typing experience and sound output of a switch.
Overall, the Dareu Mahjong and the TTC Silent Brown switches showcase a thoughtful selection of housing materials that cater to specific sound preferences and performance needs. While both switches prioritize durability and impact resistance, their top and bottom housing materials offer distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback. Whether you prefer a smoother, clacky sound with POK top housing or a sharper, crisper sound with polycarbonate top housing, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and styles of typing.
Weight
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mahjong has an unknown value compared to the Silent Brown's 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This means that while both switches have the same light actuation force, the Silent Brown requires a heavier force to fully press the key down compared to the Mahjong. This difference in bottom out force can impact the typing experience for users who prefer a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference for typing intensity and comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm. In this case, the Mahjong has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Brown. The Mahjong's 3.4mm distance may provide a quicker response time, which could be favored by gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Silent Brown's 3.8mm travel distance might offer a more substantial feel when typing, which could be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
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 neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of typing environments, whether at home or in the office. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch provides a muted sound profile that minimizes unnecessary noise, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer different sound qualities, so the choice between them will depend on personal preference and the desired level of keyboard noise.
In terms of feel, the Mahjong linear switch is described as bouncy, giving a lively and spring-like feedback when typing. Additionally, it is considered mild and polished, offering a gentle and smooth typing experience for users. Conversely, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is characterized as buttery, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. It also shares the mild and polished qualities with the Mahjong switch, ensuring a comfortable and refined typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, so the decision between them will depend on the desired typing feel and feedback.
Overall, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and TTC Silent Brown tactile switch each have their own distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a livelier sound with a bouncy feel from the Mahjong switch or a muted sound with a buttery feel from the Silent Brown switch, both options offer a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a unique color scheme, lively sound signature, and effortless typing experience, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium resistance, a satisfying tactile bump, and a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch would be the better option. Consider your preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience when making your decision between these two switches to find the one that suits your needs best.
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