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Dareu Mahjong vs. Gazzew U4T

An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch are popular options to consider. The Mahjong switches from Dareu are known for their distinctive green and white color scheme, offering a lively and poppy sound signature along with an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Ts boast a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. While the Mahjong switch leans towards a bouncy and polished feel, the U4T switch offers a bassy and sharp tactility. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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

N/A

Bottom-out force

N/A

Bottom-out force

65g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

N/A

Total travel

3.40 mm

Total travel

4.00 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

Proprietary Gazzew blend

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Proprietary Gazzew blend

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Gold-plated spring

Spring

Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Gazzew U4T, both switches offer unique characteristics that contribute to their overall performance. The Mahjong's POK top housing provides exceptional durability and smoothness due to its high coefficient of friction, making it one of the smoothest materials available. On the other hand, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the Mahjong focuses on durability and smoothness, the U4T prioritizes sound quality and tactile feedback.

In terms of bottom housing materials, the Mahjong utilizes nylon, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both switches focus on enhancing sound quality through the use of materials that absorb sound, providing a satisfying typing experience.

While the top and bottom housings of the Mahjong and U4T differ in material composition, both switches aim to provide a unique typing experience by leveraging the qualities of their respective housing materials. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches strive to offer a combination of durability, smoothness, and sound quality to cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, whether it's the POK material of the Mahjong or the Gazzew blend of the U4T, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with distinct characteristics from each switch.

Weight

When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Mahjong switch has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to type on for longer periods without fatigue setting in. However, the bottom out force for this switch is unknown, which may be a concern for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more tactile and pronounced typing experience. The actuation force for the U4T switch is not specified, but it can be assumed to be on the heavier side based on the bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Mahjong switch is lighter overall, making it a potential choice for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the U4T switch offers a heavier typing experience for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Mahjong switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the U4T switch may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Both options allow for a tactile typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience that can cater to different user preferences.

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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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 Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Its lively and poppy sound signature adds a dynamic element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a bassy and thocky sound profile, delivering a deep and rich auditory experience with each keystroke. The U4T's sound signature is characterized by a lower frequency range and a satisfying thud or knock upon key press and release. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, with the Mahjong providing a more neutral sound and the U4T offering a deeper, more bass-heavy experience.

When it comes to feel, the Dareu Mahjong switch is described as bouncy, mild, and polished. The bouncy sensation provides a spring-like feedback, offering a lively feel and rebound when typing. The mild characteristics of the switch create a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the polished finish of the Mahjong switch results in smooth and refined key travel, reducing friction for a sleek typing experience. In comparison, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, offering a high intensity tactile bump that is distinct and pronounced with each keypress. The U4T provides a strong and crisp tactile response, enhancing the typing experience with a sharp tactile feedback.

Overall, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Mahjong provides a more neutral sound profile and a bouncy, mild, and polished feel, the U4T delivers a bassy, thocky sound signature and a sharp tactile feedback experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to a variety of users, ensuring that typists can find a switch that suits their specific preferences and typing needs. Whether you choose the Mahjong or the U4T, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinctive sound and feel characteristics.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Mahjong linear switch or the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a unique and poppy sound profile with a bouncy and polished typing experience, then the Mahjong may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bassy, thocky sound with a sharp and intense tactile feedback, then the U4T could be the better choice. Remember to consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so trust your instincts and choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.

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