SP-Star Ayara vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options in the linear switch category are the SP-Star Ayara and the TKC Tangerine. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, they have their own unique qualities that may appeal to different users. The Ayara is known for its medium heftiness, making it a great choice for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, it provides a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch stands out with its incredibly smooth feel, thanks to the use of UHWMPE housings, which is a rarity among bespoke mechanical switches. This switch offers a pleasurable typing experience, with each keystroke feeling buttery and frictionless. It does, however, produce a high-pitched clack when typing. While these general pointers can help you determine your initial preference, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the TKC Tangerine switches are quite different. The Ayara utilizes a nylon top housing, which is a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Tangerine switch features a UHWMPE top housing, a newer material that offers a very bright sound signature. Users can expect resonant clacks when typing on Tangerine switches with UHWMPE top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ayara and Tangerine switches continue to differentiate. The Ayara employs a nylon bottom housing, similar to its top housing. As with the nylon top housing, typing on switches with nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for increased sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Tangerine switch makes use of a UHWMPE bottom housing. This newer material contributes to a very bright sound signature, providing resonant clacks when typing.
While the top and bottom housings of the switches differ, both the Ayara and Tangerine switches offer distinct sound profiles based on the materials used. In terms of pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the choice of bottom housing material will influence the experience of the switch when it is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound generated when releasing a key. Consequently, the material used for the top housing will shape the sound produced upon key release. Despite these variations, both switches provide unique sound characteristics based on their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are similarities and differences in terms of their actuation force and bottom out force. Unfortunately, the specific actuation force for both switches is unavailable, but it can be assumed that they are similar since no distinction is made between them. They both have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This is especially advantageous for those who bring their keyboards to work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are users who desire a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals would benefit from switches with heavier forces.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Ayara and TKC Tangerine switches share a similar actuation force and bottom out force of 62 grams, making them suitable options for those seeking a medium typing experience. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference regarding the desired weight of the switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. In the case of the SP-Star Ayara and the TKC Tangerine linear switches, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Ayara and the Tangerine switches will provide similar results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Ayara has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ayara for $5.40.
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
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch is best known for its hearty typing experience. It has a medium heftness that provides a satisfying feel when typing. The switch offers a soft bottom-out feel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Ayara switch produces a perfectly clacky sound profile, which adds to the overall typing satisfaction. Its sound profile is neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound level suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced typist, and whether you use it at home or work.
On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is known for elevating the typing experience to the next level. It offers an incredibly smooth feel with each keystroke, making typing a pleasure. The Tangerine switch stands out with its UHWMPE housing, which is a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. This housing enhances the smoothness of the switch and contributes to its overall pleasant feel. When typing on the Tangerine switch, you will experience a fairly high-pitched clack sound, which adds a crisp and sharp element to your typing experience.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Ayara and TKC Tangerine linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ayara provides a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, the Tangerine offers an incredibly smooth feel with a fairly high-pitched clack sound. Both switches have qualities that can enhance typing satisfaction based on individual preferences. If you prefer a medium heftness and a neutral sound profile, the Ayara is a great choice. However, if you prioritize an extremely smooth typing experience and prefer a high-pitched clack sound, the Tangerine switch would be more suitable. Regardless of your choice, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a medium bottom-out force and a soft bottom-out feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is the way to go. These switches provide a perfectly clacky sound profile and are suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a polished feel and reduced friction, the Ayara switches offer a sleek and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize an incredibly smooth typing experience and enjoy a high-pitched clack, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is the better choice for you. With its UHWMPE housings, these switches offer a rare level of smoothness and each keystroke is a true pleasure. Furthermore, if you prefer switches with a frictionless feel and buttery keystrokes, the Tangerine switches provide a fluid and effortless typing sensation.
In terms of sound, both switches offer a high-pitched clack, so if you enjoy a sharp and crisp sound when typing, either choice will suit your preference.
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Ayara and the TKC Tangerine linear switches comes down to personal preference. Consider factors such as bottom-out force, typing experience, sound profile, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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