Dareu Mahjong vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Durock White Lotus 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 Durock White Lotus. The Dareu Mahjong offers a unique and vibrant typing experience with its distinctive green and white color scheme. Known for its lively and poppy sound signature, these linear switches provide an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus stands out as a tactile switch designed for the discerning typist. With a delicate tactility and a perfect balance, these switches are ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. Additionally, the White Lotus switches feature a removable light column for vibrant RGB lighting effects, adding a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. Each switch offers its own set of characteristics that cater to 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
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Durock White Lotus, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon in the bottom housing. While both switches share this common feature, the differences in their top housing materials contribute to their distinct qualities.
On one hand, the Mahjong features a top housing made of POK material, known for its exceptionally smooth texture and durability. With a coefficient of friction slightly higher than LY, the POK material ensures smooth and clacky switch operation. In comparison, the White Lotus boasts a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, offering a unique and premium feel to the switches. Although both materials are designed to enhance the overall typing experience, the specifics of their composition may result in varying tactile feedback and sound characteristics.
Ultimately, the top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall performance of a switch. The combination of materials in the Dareu Mahjong and Durock White Lotus switches creates a balanced feel, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. Despite differences in their housing materials, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience through a combination of smoothness, durability, and unique tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Mahjong linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the White Lotus tactile switch with 46 grams. However, the bottom out force of the White Lotus is significantly heavier at 56 grams, while the Mahjong's bottom out force remains unknown. This indicates that the White Lotus switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Mahjong switch may offer a lighter touch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mahjong switch may be more suitable, while those looking for a heavier feel may prefer the White Lotus switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Durock White Lotus tactile switch which has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying key press for some users. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Mahjong being slightly shorter and the White Lotus being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and response time.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is known for its neutral profile, making it suitable for various uses whether you are a beginner or advanced user. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers a low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow, along with a moderate sound profile. The sound produced by both switches is influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used, so individual results may vary.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch provides a bouncy and lively typing experience, thanks to its spring-like feedback sensation and mild characteristics that fall in a safe middle-ground zone. Conversely, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers an easy-to-press feel with gentle resistance during key presses, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The smooth and refined finish of these switches results in reduced friction and effortless typing, enhancing the overall user experience.
In conclusion, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mahjong switch provides a neutral sound profile with a bouncy typing experience, the White Lotus switch offers a low-pitched tone and easy-to-press feel. Both switches aim to cater to a wide range of users, providing an enjoyable typing experience with their distinct characteristics. If you are looking for a switch with similar attributes, either option can deliver satisfying results based on your preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a unique color scheme, lively sound, and bouncy feel, the Mahjong switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a delicate tactility, easy-to-press keys, and low-pitched sound, the White Lotus switch could be the better option. Whether you value a medium-light bottom out force without overwhelming feedback or a tranquil typing experience with vibrant RGB lighting effects, both switches offer distinctive qualities to enhance your typing experience. Choose wisely based on what aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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