Dareu Mahjong vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Mahjong switch is characterized by its distinctive green and white color scheme, providing a lively and poppy sound signature along with an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° by Gateron revolutionizes silent typing with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. While the Mahjong switch may be preferred for its bouncy and polished feel, the Zero Degree 0° stands out for its silent operation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature top housings made of different materials, with the Mahjong using POK material and the Zero Degree 0° using polycarbonate. The POK material in the Mahjong switch contributes to a smooth and clacky feel, while the polycarbonate in the Zero Degree 0° creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Additionally, POK material is exceptionally strong and durable, with wear resistance that surpasses POM, while polycarbonate is known for its translucency and suitability for RGB lighting.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound. This means that both switches will provide a duller and rounder sound when typing, thanks to the qualities of the nylon bottom housing. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may still offer different typing experiences based on their overall design and construction.
When considering the impact of different materials in the top and bottom housings of a switch, it's important to note that the qualities of each material will be experienced in different aspects of typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when a key is released. In this case, the POK material in the Dareu Mahjong contributes to a smooth feel and durable construction, while the polycarbonate in the Gateron Zero Degree 0° creates a more resonant sound profile. Overall, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience of each switch.
Weight
The actuation force of both the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is 45 grams, which means that they both require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. This makes it difficult to determine which switch is lighter or heavier when it comes to pressing all the way down. In terms of weight, some may prefer a lighter switch like the Mahjong for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer a heavier switch like the Zero Degree 0° for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is clear that the Mahjong has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm while the Zero Degree 0° has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Mahjong's shorter travel distance may be preferred by those looking for quick and precise key presses, while the Zero Degree 0° may appeal to users who prefer a slightly deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key responsiveness.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
Overall, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a lively and poppy sound signature with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. The switch also provides a bouncy and polished feel, giving users a spring-like sensation and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, delivering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. As such, users can expect a quiet typing experience with a gentle and approachable feel. While the sound profile and feel of these switches may differ, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the Dareu Mahjong and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Mahjong linear switch or the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences and typing preferences. If you are looking for a unique and lively typing experience with a distinctive color scheme and a bouncy feel, the Mahjong switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent, smooth, and stable typing experience with a soft and elastic feel that reduces noise, then the Zero Degree 0° switch would be the better option. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so it is important to consider what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Mahjong and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches will depend on your individual preferences and needs.
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