Dareu Mahjong vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch to the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Mahjong's distinctive green and white color scheme sets it apart visually, while its bouncy and mild typing experience makes it a popular choice for those seeking a polished feel. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis's translucent design and light actuation force of 37g provide an effortless typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. The 50g tactile force of the Phalaenopsis also ensures a satisfying and discernible tactile bump with every keystroke. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Mahjong and KTT Phalaenopsis both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall experience of using the switches. The Mahjong's POK top housing stands out for its smoothness and durability, with a coefficient of friction slightly higher than that of the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate top housing. However, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate top housing is praised for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, particularly when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both materials offer their own advantages, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Mahjong's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, aligning with the characteristics of its top housing material. Both materials offer their own unique acoustic qualities, with nylon emphasizing a more muffled sound and polycarbonate providing a clearer and more resonant sound. Whether one prefers the richness of nylon or the clarity of polycarbonate will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing experience.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials on the switches, it's important to recognize that the qualities of the top and bottom housings work together to create a balanced typing experience. While the bottom housing can affect the sound and feel when pressing down on a key, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when releasing the key. Whether one prioritizes smoothness and durability over sound profile or vice versa, both the Dareu Mahjong and KTT Phalaenopsis offer a combination of top and bottom housing materials that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, the Mahjong has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 37 grams. The Mahjong has an unknown bottom out force, while the Phalaenopsis has a light bottom out force of 50 grams. If both were to have the same bottom out force, users would experience similar results in terms of typing experience. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Mahjong for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Phalaenopsis for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces should be considered based on individual typing preferences and usage habits.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is 3.4 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Phalaenopsis has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Mahjong. Typically, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel. Both switches offer unique benefits and it's important to consider what kind of typing experience you are looking for when choosing between them.
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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, which provides a deeper and richer sound experience during key presses. Both switches will offer satisfying sound feedback, but the Phalaenopsis switch may appeal more to those who prefer a deeper and more pronounced sound.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Mahjong switch provides a bouncy and mild typing experience, with a polished finish that enhances the overall smoothness of key presses. This gives users a lively and rebounding feel while typing, making it an enjoyable experience. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as having a stepped tactile feel, offering a more mild and structured typing sensation with discernible pre-travel and post-travel stages. This can cater to users who prefer a more controlled and deliberate keystroke experience.
Overall, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mahjong switch provides a versatile and lively typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a deeper and more structured tactile feel with a bassy and thocky sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing sensation, users can choose between these switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard experience. Keep in mind that the overall sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycap choices.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider the characteristics and features that align with your preferences and typing style. If you value a unique color scheme, lively sound signature, and effortless typing experience, the Mahjong may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force, minimized finger fatigue, and a satisfying tactile bump with a bassy and thocky sound profile, the Phalaenopsis switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels comfortable and enjoyable to you as you type, so choose the switch that best suits your needs and preferences.
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