KTT Darling vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Darling and the Dareu Mahjong stand out as intriguing options. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, offers a typing sensation that is both chewy and substantial, with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong switches are known for their distinctive green and white color scheme, providing a lively, poppy sound signature and an effortless typing experience. While the Darling is categorized as ['Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Resonant'], the Mahjong falls under ['Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Polished']. Both switches have their unique 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Dareu Mahjong, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. While the Darling's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile ideal for RGB lighting, the Mahjong's POK top housing boasts exceptional smoothness and durability. Despite both utilizing polycarbonate, the switches offer slightly different characteristics, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
On the other hand, both the Darling and the Mahjong feature nylon for their bottom housing material. This classic switch housing material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. As a result, when typing on switches using nylon bottom housing, users can expect a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housing. In this aspect, the switches share similarities in the sound profile they provide to users.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are dispersed between the top and bottom housing of the switches. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. While both switches may use similar materials for their housings, the distribution of these materials impacts the overall typing experience and sound profile. Ultimately, the differences between the Darling's polycarbonate top housing and the Mahjong's POK top housing, as well as the similarities in their nylon bottom housing, highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the characteristics of mechanical switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and Dareu Mahjong linear switch are quite similar in terms of actuation force, both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Darling is on the lighter side with 53 grams, while the Mahjong's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Darling provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Darling, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Mahjong, assuming it has a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, both switches offer a comparable actuation force, but the difference lies in the bottom out force, with the Darling being the lighter option.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch. While both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0mm option, the Darling switch provides a slightly deeper press compared to the Mahjong switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the Darling switch, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Mahjong switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 KTT Darling linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback that can be engaging for typists who enjoy a more pronounced sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a more neutral sound, suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. Depending on your personal preference, the Darling may offer a more lively and resonant typing experience compared to the Mahjong.
When it comes to feel, both the KTT Darling and Dareu Mahjong switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that adds a lively feel to each keystroke. Additionally, the Mahjong switch is noted for its mild and polished qualities, offering a gentler typing experience and smooth key travel. The Darling switch, on the other hand, focuses more on the bouncy and rebounding feel, giving typists a satisfying tactile feedback with each press. Ultimately, whether you prefer a more pronounced bouncy feel or a smoother, polished typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a distinct sound profile and a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Darling switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a more neutral sound and a polished typing experience with a touch of bounciness, the Dareu Mahjong switch could be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and the overall typing experience you're looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a typing sensation that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy with a pronounced high-pitched sound, the Darling switch may be the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lively, poppy sound signature and effortless typing experience, along with a polished and mild feel, the Mahjong switch might be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer the unique tactile and auditory feedback of the Darling or the versatile and smooth typing experience of the Mahjong. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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