Bsun Akashi vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer a unique typing experience. The Akashi is known for its UPE stem for smoothness and a distinctive housing combo of POM top and nylon bottom, creating a bright, crisp bottom-out sound with a deep acoustic richness. On the other hand, the Tangerine boasts UHWMPE housings for an incredibly smooth feel with a high-pitched clack when typing. While the Akashi is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', 'snappy', and 'easy-to-press', the Tangerine is categorized as 'buttery', 'high-pitched', and 'polished'. Both switches provide a frictionless typing experience, but the Akashi offers a more resonant feel while the Tangerine focuses on smoothness and a high-pitched sound. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the TKC Tangerine both feature unique housing materials for their switches. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a deep and muted sound profile, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing offers a bright and resonant sound signature. In contrast, the Akashi's nylon bottom housing provides a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to the switch's bright sound profile.
While the Akashi and Tangerine switches differ in their top and bottom housing materials, both switches aim to provide a unique sound experience to users. The split qualities of the top and bottom housings in each switch allow for a balance in sound and feel when typing. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during bottom-out sounds and feels, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Ultimately, both switches offer a distinct typing experience based on the materials used in their top and bottom housings.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi and the TKC Tangerine showcase how different housing materials can influence the sound profile and typing experience of mechanical switches. The Akashi's POM and nylon housing materials create a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing materials provide a brighter and more resonant sound signature. Whether one prefers a muted and softer typing experience or a bright and more impactful sound when typing, both switches offer unique options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, the actuation force of the Akashi is 37 grams, while the Tangerine's actuation force is unknown. The Akashi has a bottom out force of 43 grams, whereas the Tangerine has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Akashi lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Tangerine, which is medium in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods, the Akashi would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Tangerine due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Akashi has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Tangerine. The shorter travel distance of the Akashi may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Tangerine's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and tactile feel for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users who appreciate quick keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
The TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 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 Bsun Akashi linear switch offers a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise with each keystroke. This sound is described as crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a distinctive auditory experience to typing. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch provides a high-pitched clack when typing, emphasizing a sharp and crisp sound that may appeal to those who prefer a more vibrant and clear auditory feedback. Depending on the user's preference for sound, both switches offer unique acoustic qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Akashi is noted for its creamy and easy-to-press qualities, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance during key presses. The switch feels polished and silky, providing a refined and comfortable feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine switch emphasizes a frictionless and buttery feel, delivering an exceptionally smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and uniform. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable and responsive typing feel, catering to users who prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi and TKC Tangerine linear switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Akashi switch provides a clacky sound and a creamy, easy-to-press feel, the Tangerine switch offers a high-pitched clack and a frictionless, buttery sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between these switches to achieve a personalized and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams and enjoy a tactile feedback with a unique sound profile and a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, or easy-to-press feel, the Akashi may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and appreciate a high-pitched sound with a frictionless, buttery, or polished feel, the Tangerine could be the better option for your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision should align with your personal preferences for typing comfort and sound aesthetics.
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