Bsun Avocado vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Avocado offers a tactile typing experience that is characterized by a snappy, responsive bump followed by a smooth downstroke. This switch provides satisfying feedback without being overwhelming, accompanied by a mild and neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine stands out as a linear switch known for its incredibly smooth feel and UHWMPE housings, setting it apart in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. While typing on Tangerine switches results in a high-pitched clack, the overall typing experience is described as frictionless and polished. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sensation. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Avocado and TKC Tangerine both feature unique housing materials for their switches, with the Avocado utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, while the Tangerine opts for UHWMPE for both the top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Avocado creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting effects, while the nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. In contrast, the UHWMPE material used in the Tangerine's top and bottom housing offers a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks.
While the Avocado and Tangerine differ in their housing materials, they both aim to provide a unique sound experience for users. The Avocado's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a dynamic sound profile with clear and resonant qualities when typing. On the other hand, the Tangerine's consistent use of UHWMPE throughout the housing results in a bright and resonant sound that is consistent across the entire switch. Despite these differences, both switches strive to offer a high-quality sound experience that caters to the user's preference for sound and feel while typing.
In terms of sound impact, the Avocado's housing materials divide the qualities between the top and bottom of the switch, with the polycarbonate top influencing the sound upon key release and the nylon bottom affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the Tangerine's use of UHWMPE throughout the housing ensures a consistent bright sound profile regardless of whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a brighter, resonant sound when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is clear that the Avocado has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Tangerine's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Avocado requiring 65 grams and the Tangerine needing 62 grams. This means that while the Avocado is lighter to press initially, both switches will provide a similar typing experience once fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Avocado may be the better option. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Tangerine. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, we can see that the Avocado has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Tangerine has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Avocado's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Tangerine's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance, with the Avocado offering a shorter option and the Tangerine offering a longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
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 Avocado switch is known for its mild, neutral sound signature, creating an unobtrusive typing background. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch produces a high-pitched clack when typing, offering a sharper and crisper sound experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the more subtle sound of the Avocado or the more distinct sound of the Tangerine to enhance their typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the BSUN Avocado switch is renowned for its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, providing a pronounced and responsive typing sensation. The tactile bump is described as snappy, offering a satisfying and reactive feel without being overwhelming. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine switch offers a frictionless and buttery smooth keystroke experience due to its UHWMPE housings, resulting in a fluid and effortless typing sensation. The polished finish of the Tangerine switch contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel, making each keystroke a pleasure.
In conclusion, the BSUN Avocado switch and the TKC Tangerine switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Avocado provides a tactile typing experience with a mild sound signature, the Tangerine offers a smoother keystroke with a higher-pitched clack. Depending on individual preferences for tactile feedback and sound profile, users can choose between the pronounced tactility of the Avocado or the smoothness of the Tangerine to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup. Rest assured, both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience tailored to different preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Avocado tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you prefer a switch with pronounced tactility and a neutral sound signature, opt for the Avocado. On the other hand, if you desire a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, the Tangerine may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what suits your typing style and preferences best.
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