Dareu Mahjong vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch to the KTT Wine Red linear switch, both offer unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. The Mahjong switches are recognized for their lively and poppy sound signature, along with an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches provide a pillowy light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile that is satisfying to many users. While the Mahjong switches are categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Wine Red switches fall into the categories of 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched'. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose will depend on individual preferences and typing needs. 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
44g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Mahjong and the KTT Wine Red feature different housing materials for both their top and bottom housings. The Mahjong's POK top housing is known for its smoothness and durability, while the Wine Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and clearer sound profile. In terms of aesthetics, the POK material used in the Mahjong switch provides a classic and durable look, while the polycarbonate material in the Wine Red switch offers a translucent option that enhances RGB lighting effects. Both materials have their unique characteristics, with POK focusing on smoothness and durability, and polycarbonate emphasizing sound quality and aesthetics.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the two switches also differ in material. The Mahjong's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness, while the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffness. While the Nylon bottom housing on the Mahjong creates a duller and rounder sound, the polycarbonate bottom housing on the Wine Red enhances clarity and resonance. These differences in material highlight the impact that the bottom housing has on the overall sound profile and feel of the switch.
Overall, despite the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Mahjong and the KTT Wine Red, both switches aim to provide a premium typing experience with their unique material choices. The characteristics of the housing materials, whether it be POK or nylon for the Mahjong, or polycarbonate for the Wine Red, are carefully selected to enhance the smoothness, durability, sound profile, and aesthetics of the switches. While the top and bottom housings may have distinct qualities, both switches ultimately offer high-quality options for users looking for a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The Mahjong has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Wine Red's 44 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Wine Red takes the lead with 55 grams, while the Mahjong's bottom out force remains unknown. This makes the Wine Red switch a bit heavier overall than the Mahjong. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Mahjong for its lower actuation force, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Wine Red due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Wine Red linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mahjong switch would provide a faster response time compared to the Wine Red switch, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch with its longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press and find shorter distances too abrupt. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Wine Red being more traditional and the Mahjong catering to the preference for shorter distances. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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 provides a neutral and moderate sound profile, suitable for various typing environments and user levels. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch offers a deep and rich bassy sound profile with low-pitched tones, providing a more immersive and satisfying auditory experience during typing sessions. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Mahjong being more versatile and the Wine Red offering a more pronounced bassy sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Mahjong switch offers a bouncy and lively typing experience with a mild feel that falls into a safe middle ground for most users. The keys have a spring-like feedback, giving a sense of rebound when pressed, along with a polished finish for a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch's feel is unknown. With the Mahjong switch boasting a bouncy and polished typing feel, users can expect a responsive and comfortable typing experience with a slight bounce.
In conclusion, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Mahjong switch provides a lively and poppy sound signature with a bouncy and polished typing feel, while the Wine Red switch offers a deeper and richer bassy sound profile. Both switches bring their own distinct characteristics to the table, ensuring users will have an enjoyable and personalized typing experience based on their preferences. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile and a lively typing feel or a deep bassy sound profile and a compelling typing experience, both switches can deliver satisfying results for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when selecting between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines: Choose the Mahjong if you prefer a switch with a unique color scheme, lively sound signature, and effortless typing experience. The Mahjong switch is best for those looking for a neutral sound profile and a bouncy, mild, and polished feel. On the other hand, opt for the Wine Red if you enjoy a pillowy light typing feel, a deep and rich sound profile, and a switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Wine Red switch is perfect for those seeking a switch with a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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