Gateron Aliaz vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking to choose between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and Dareu Mahjong stand out as popular options to consider. The Gateron Aliaz is a tactile switch known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for office settings. With a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke, it is favored by those who appreciate pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong is a linear switch with a unique green and white color scheme that adds a touch of excitement to any keyboard setup. Offering a lively, poppy sound signature and an effortless typing experience, it provides a different feel compared to the Aliaz. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and Dareu Mahjong both use different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Aliaz featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Mahjong utilizing a POK top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while POK material offers a smooth and clacky typing experience with exceptional durability. Both materials are suitable for switches, with polycarbonate being more ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while POK stands out for its strength and wear resistance.
In terms of bottom housings, the Aliaz uses polycarbonate, which also contributes to the switch's overall sound profile, while the Dareu Mahjong utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is praised for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the sharper and crisper sound produced by polycarbonate in the Aliaz switches. Both materials play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and Dareu Mahjong will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, typing experience, and durability. The polycarbonate and POK materials each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, such as sharper and higher-pitched sound with polycarbonate, and smoother and clackier typing experience with POK. Whether you prefer the stiffer and clearer sound profile of polycarbonate, or the softer and fuller sound of nylon, both switches provide a variety of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to explore.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 75 grams compared to the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Aliaz switch will require more force to register a keystroke and provide a more substantial typing experience when compared to the Mahjong switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mahjong switch would be the better option. However, if a stronger push feel is desired, the Aliaz switch would be the preferred choice. In both cases, the actuation force will determine how much force is needed for typing, while the bottom out force will impact how it feels when the key is fully pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Mahjong's 3.4 mm. The Aliaz provides a bit more depth and cushion when typing, which may be preferred by some users looking for a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Mahjong offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those seeking a faster response time, particularly gamers. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Aliaz leaning towards the longer end and the Mahjong towards the shorter end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch offers a muted typing experience, perfect for quiet environments like offices. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch provides a neutral sound profile suitable for a variety of settings. While the Aliaz switch focuses on minimizing noise, the Mahjong switch offers a moderate sound level that can cater to both beginners and advanced users. Ultimately, the sound of both switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key presses with reduced resistance. Conversely, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch provides a bouncy and mild typing sensation, giving a spring-like feedback when keys are pressed. Both switches also share a polished finish, ensuring a sleek and refined typing experience for users. The Aliaz switch focuses on providing exceptional smoothness, while the Mahjong switch offers a more lively and rebounding feel.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz switch is ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience with a pronounced tactile feedback, while the Mahjong switch appeals to users looking for a lively sound and bouncy keypresses. Both switches offer a polished finish for smooth key travel, ensuring an overall refined typing experience for users. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can choose between the Aliaz for a quieter, medium-heavy typing experience or the Mahjong for a more lively and moderate typing sensation.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing environment. If you prioritize a silent typing experience with a medium-heavy weight and pronounced tactile feedback, the Aliaz switch would be the ideal choice for you, especially in quiet settings like an office. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique, poppy sound profile with a lively typing experience and a smoother key travel, the Mahjong switch would be more suitable for you. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, so consider your typing style and environment to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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