Gateron Beer vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and TKC Tangerine offer unique experiences for users seeking different tactile feedback. The Gateron Beer, with its mesmerizing translucent green appearance, provides a refreshing change with its stepped tactility that is easy to press and emits a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine stands out for its incredibly smooth linear feel, thanks to the UHWMPE housings, offering a buttery typing experience with a high-pitched clack. While both switches have their own appeal, it ultimately 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
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the TKC Tangerine, one key difference is seen in the top housing. The Beer utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This material allows for a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing offers a very bright sound signature, producing resonant clacks when typing. This newer material brings a unique sound profile compared to the polycarbonate of the Beer.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Gateron Beer and TKC Tangerine maintain distinct characteristics. The Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the sharp, high-pitched sound profile seen in both the top and bottom of the switch. Its stiffness enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, especially noticeable during bottom-out keystrokes. Conversely, the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing also adds to its bright sound signature, offering resonant clacks during typing. This newer material provides a different sound experience compared to the polycarbonate used in the Beer's bottom housing.
When considering how the top and bottom housing materials impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, it becomes evident that each material brings its own unique qualities. While the Gateron Beer's polycarbonate top and bottom housings work in harmony to create a clear and crisp sound profile, the TKC Tangerine's use of UHWMPE in both top and bottom housings leads to a bright and resonant typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound signatures based on their housing materials, showcasing the importance of selecting the right materials for desired sound outcomes. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate of the Beer or the newer UHWMPE of the Tangerine, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch differ in weight. The Beer has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Tangerine, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Tangerine has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Beer has a bottom out force of 50 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Beer makes it ideal for longer typing sessions and gaming, while the heavier bottom out force of the Tangerine provides a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on the user's preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the TKC Tangerine linear switch's travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Beer switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Tangerine switch may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper press. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on their travel distances, so ultimately the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a distinctive clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. This creates a crisp and bright auditory experience that can be quite percussive. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is described as having a higher-pitched sound, which is sharp and crisp when typing. This may appeal to those who prefer a more vibrant and lively sound profile in their switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses that require minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the stepped tactility of these switches provides a more subtle tactile experience compared to other switches, allowing for a unique typing feel. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is characterized by its frictionless and buttery feel, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. The UHWMPE housing contributes to this smoothness, resulting in a polished and refined typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Beer provides a clacky sound and an easy-to-press tactile experience with stepped tactility, the Tangerine offers a higher-pitched sound and a frictionless, buttery feel with a polished finish. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on individual preference for sound profile and typing feel. Both switches are designed to elevate the typing experience to the next level, allowing users to customize their keyboards according to their unique preferences.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you prefer a lightweight, clacky switch with a stepped tactility and a characteristic sound signature, the Gateron Beer tactile switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium weight, high-pitched linear switch with an incredibly smooth and frictionless typing experience, the TKC Tangerine linear switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a unique tactile experience or a smooth and seamless linear typing sensation. Consider the key factors of sound, feel, and bottom out force when selecting the switch that will enhance your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
