Dareu Mahjong vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Dareu Mahjong and the Jwick Taro. The Dareu Mahjong features linear switches with a distinctive green and white color scheme, offering a lively and poppy sound signature along with an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro boasts tactile switches that provide a cozy typing experience, featuring a snappy medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the Mahjong switch is categorized as bouncy, mild, neutral, and polished, the Taro switch falls into the neutral, buttery, and stepped category. Each switch offers unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Dareu Mahjong and Jwick Taro switches have different properties that cater to specific preferences. The Mahjong's POK top housing offers a smooth and durable experience with its high wear resistance and shock resistance. In contrast, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially ideal for those interested in using RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both materials are durable, they contribute to varying sound profiles and aesthetics based on the user's preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Mahjong and Taro switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating deeper and fuller sound profiles. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches enhances the typing experience by providing a unique sound profile that adds to the overall feel of the switch. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may still offer subtle differences in sound and feel based on their design and construction.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Dareu Mahjong and Jwick Taro switches showcases the importance of considering the impact of different plastics on the typing experience. While both switches have their strengths in terms of durability and sound profiles, the POK top housing of the Mahjong and polycarbonate top housing of the Taro offer distinct characteristics that cater to varying preferences. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, emphasizing the importance of material choice in creating a unique typing experience. Whether users prefer a smooth and durable switch or a sharper and crisper sound profile, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall feel and performance of the switches.
Weight
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Jwick Taro tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Taro has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Mahjong is not available. The lighter actuation force of the Mahjong may make it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier bottom out force of the Taro may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their unique actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose according to their preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The Mahjong's shorter travel distance may appeal to those who prioritize speed and precision in their keystrokes, while the Taro's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback for those who prefer a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the amount of travel distance that feels comfortable and responsive.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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, both the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and scenarios. The Mahjong offers a lively, poppy sound signature, while the Taro provides acute and crisp clacks, enhancing the typing experience for both switches. It's essential to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Mahjong is known for its bouncy and polished characteristics, providing a spring-like feedback sensation along with a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro offers a buttery and stepped feel, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a mild tactile sensation that includes pre-travel and/or post-travel elements. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, catering to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, both the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing users with distinct typing experiences. While the Mahjong leans towards a bouncy and polished feel, the Taro offers a buttery and stepped tactile sensation, accommodating various user preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a bouncy and polished typing experience with a lively sound profile, the Mahjong switches may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a buttery and stepped tactile feedback with a cozy typing experience, the Taro switches could be the better choice for you. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific feel and sound you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard switches. Happy typing!
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