Dareu Mahjong vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Type A. The Dareu Mahjong stands out with its unique green and white color scheme and is praised for its lively sound and comfortable typing experience. Categorized as bouncy, mild, neutral, and polished, the Mahjong switch is a solid choice for those who enjoy a tactile and responsive feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' Project Rehash offers a different experience with its innovative design focusing on travel distances and factory lubing techniques. Positioned as a medium-weight switch, the Type A produces a deeper sound signature and is categorized as neutral and subdued. While both switches have their strengths and unique features, it's important to delve deeper than these generalities to determine the best switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Type A, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that contributes to a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches. The similarities in the bottom housing material of the Mahjong and Type A indicate that users can expect comparable sound profiles and tactile feedback when using either switch.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Mahjong and Type A differ, with the Mahjong featuring a POK top housing while the Type A boasts a nylon top housing. The POK material of the Mahjong is praised for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance, making it a top choice for switch construction. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Type A is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. While the POK material offers superior durability, the nylon top housing of the Type A provides a unique typing experience that may appeal to users seeking a different sound profile.
Overall, the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Type A each bring their own unique qualities to the switches. While the Mahjong's POK top housing excels in smoothness and durability, the Type A's nylon top housing offers a distinct sound profile that may appeal to users looking for a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which ensures a consistent typing experience with a dull and round sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the Mahjong and Type A will come down to individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and durability.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Type A switch is slightly heavier in both aspects. The Mahjong has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Type A has a higher actuation force of 50 grams. Additionally, the Mahjong does not have a specified bottom out force, whereas the Type A has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the Mahjong may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing feel, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Type A switch may be more suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Type A linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. The Mahjong's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Type A's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer more depth in their key presses. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the user.
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 Type A comes in at $4.70 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a lively and poppy sound signature, which can be quite engaging during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch provides a deeper sound profile, leaning towards the subdued side of the sound spectrum. Both switches fall under the category of neutral in terms of sound, making them versatile choices for various typing environments. The difference lies in the Mahjong's livelier sound compared to the Type A's more subdued tone.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that adds to the typing experience. Additionally, the switch offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable to a wide range of users. The polished finish of the Mahjong switch contributes to smooth key travel, enhancing the overall feel during typing. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not provided, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer unique qualities that may cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Mahjong switch excels in providing a lively sound signature and bouncy feel with its polished finish, the Type A switch introduces a deeper tone and possibly a subdued feel. Choosing between the two would ultimately depend on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their individual needs. With similar neutral sound profiles, users can expect comparable results regardless of their choice between the two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and a lively, poppy sound signature, the Mahjong may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper side of the spectrum, the Type A could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and overall experience.
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