Kailh Berry vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh Berry and the Dareu Mahjong mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Berry switch stands out for its linear design, offering a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and chalk-like texture. Known for its deep sound profile and categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy, the Berry switch caters to those who enjoy a tactile and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Mahjong switch from Dareu boasts a unique green and white color scheme and a lively, poppy sound signature. With an effortless typing experience and categorized as bouncy, mild, neutral, and polished, the Mahjong switch appeals to those seeking a smooth and polished typing feel. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Dareu Mahjong, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it clear and resonant. This material is also ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. On the other hand, the Mahjong's POK top housing is praised for its smoothness and durability, with exceptional wear resistance and shock resistance. While both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing, the Mahjong's POK material offers additional benefits in terms of smoothness and durability compared to the Berry.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Kailh Berry and Dareu Mahjong utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches share the same bottom housing material, the impact of this material will be felt more in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This commonality in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile between the Berry and Mahjong switches.
Overall, while the Kailh Berry and Dareu Mahjong switches share similarities in their use of nylon for bottom housing, they differ in their choice of top housing material. The Berry utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharp and clear sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Mahjong's POK material contributes to smooth, clacky, and durable switches with exceptional wear and shock resistance. These distinctions in top housing materials showcase the different sound profiles and durability characteristics that users can expect from each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it is evident that they provide different typing experiences. The Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the actuation force is not specified. In contrast, the Mahjong switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter, but the bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Mahjong switch may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, while the medium-heavy bottom out force of the Berry switch may be favored by individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and weight.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, we see that the Berry has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Mahjong's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their faster response times, particularly among gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, but those seeking a slightly deeper key press may prefer the Berry switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key travel depth and 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 Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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 Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy profile, providing a deep and rich tone during typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a more neutral sound, suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. The Berry switch may be preferred by those looking for a more bass-heavy and mellow sound, while the Mahjong switch is a safe choice for a more moderate and versatile sound experience depending on your preferences and setup.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its textured typing experience, providing a noticeable friction when pressed which some users may find appealing for a unique tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a bouncy and mild typing sensation, with a polished finish for a smooth and refined key travel. The Berry switch may be better suited for individuals who enjoy a more tactile and textured feel, while the Mahjong switch provides a lively and spring-like feedback that is approachable for most users.
Overall, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. If you prefer a low-pitched, bassy sound and a textured typing experience, the Berry switch might be your best choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a bouncy, polished feel, the Mahjong switch could be more suitable. It's important to consider how these switches will complement your setup and personal typing preferences when making a decision between the two.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a springy and textured typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Berry switch may be the pick for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and polished typing feel with a lively and poppy sound signature, the Mahjong switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize typing feel, sound, or both in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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