Dareu Mahjong vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Smoothie, both of which are linear switches. The Dareu Mahjong is known for its unique green and white color scheme, offering a lively and poppy sound signature along with an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its all-POM construction, providing a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Mahjong is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Smoothie is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that make it appealing to different users. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Dareu Mahjong and Gateron Smoothie differ in their choices for both top and bottom housings. The Mahjong utilizes POK material for its top housing, which is known for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. On the other hand, the Smoothie opts for POM material for its top housing, creating a unique and pleasing sound profile that is on the deeper and more muted side. While both materials contribute to a smooth typing experience, the Mahjong's POK material offers superior durability and shock resistance compared to the Smoothie's POM material.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Mahjong features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is distinct from the top housing's characteristics. In contrast, the Smoothie utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to the deep and muted sound profile. Although both switches share a similar sound profile on the bottom housing side, the materials used (nylon for Mahjong and POM for Smoothie) may result in slight variations in sound and feel when typing on the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the typing experience for users. While the Mahjong and Smoothie may share similarities in their bottom housing sound profiles, the differences in their top housing materials result in distinct typing experiences. The Mahjong's POK material offers superior smoothness, durability, and shock resistance compared to the Smoothie's POM material, showcasing the importance of material selection in switch design.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, there are some key differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The Mahjong has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams. This means that the Mahjong switch will require slightly more force to register a keystroke. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it difficult to determine which one provides a heavier typing experience when fully pressed down. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Smoothie for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Mahjong for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both are relatively short compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances like the Mahjong for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Smoothie with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch provides a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound that is deep, rich, and mellow. Depending on your preference for sound, the Mahjong switch may be more versatile, while the Smoothie switch offers a unique and satisfying typing experience with its distinctive sound characteristics.
Regarding feel, the Dareu Mahjong switch is described as bouncy, mild, and polished, providing a lively and rebounding typing experience with smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie switch offers a buttery, creamy, and silky feel, emphasizing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing feel, with the Mahjong switch offering a more lively feedback and the Smoothie switch focusing on a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Overall, while the Dareu Mahjong and Gateron Smoothie switches differ in sound and feel, both switches aim to provide a high-quality typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between the neutral and versatile Mahjong switch or the unique thocky and smooth Smoothie switch. Keep in mind that personal preference, along with other factors such as keyboard build and keycap choice, can influence the overall typing experience. Ultimately, with either switch, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider the characteristics that suit your preferences best. If you prioritize a unique appearance with a lively sound and effortless typing experience, the Mahjong switch may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a thocky sound, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch at a budget-friendly price point, the Smoothie switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a bouncy and mild feel with a polished finish or a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. Consider your sound and feel preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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