Kailh Box Jade vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the Kailh Box Jade and the TKC Tangerine. The Box Jades are the go-to for those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and tactility. With their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, typing on them is a sheer delight. On the other hand, the Tangerines offer a linear switch experience that elevates your typing to the next level. Known for its incredibly smooth feel, each keystroke is a pleasure to type, thanks to the rare UHWMPE housings that enhance the typing experience. While both switches boast high-pitched sounds, the Tangerines provide a more polished and buttery feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the TKC Tangerine switches differ, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Box Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, allowing for a more resonant and clear sound. In contrast, the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE top housing, resulting in a very bright sound signature. This material offers resonant clacks when typing, adding a unique sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Box Jade employs a nylon material. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nylon plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. As for the Tangerine, it incorporates a UHWMPE bottom housing. This newer material adds to the switch's overall sound signature, providing resonant clacks and contributing to a bright sound experience.
While the differences in housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles, it's essential to consider how each material impacts different aspects of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing in the Box Jade and the UHWMPE bottom housing in the Tangerine will be prominent during key presses. On the other hand, the top housing, whether it is polycarbonate or UHWMPE, will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. So, while the materials differ, each switch will deliver a unique sound experience based on the combination of its top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. The Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Tangerine's actuation force is unavailable. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Box Jade being slightly lighter at 60 grams compared to the Tangerine's 62 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Box Jade may be the better option as its actuation force is known to be relatively low. This lighter actuation force can allow for longer typing sessions and is advantageous for both work and gaming scenarios. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel might lean towards the Tangerine. Although its actuation force is unknown, the Tangerine's slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams can provide a more tactile sensation when typing.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Box Jade is disclosed and considered lighter, the actuation force of the Tangerine remains unspecified. However, both switches share a medium bottom out force, with the Tangerine being marginally heavier. Depending on individual preferences, the lighter Box Jade may be favored for extended typing sessions, while the slightly heavier Tangerine could offer a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Tangerine switch is longer than the Box Jade switch. The Box Jade switch falls into the shorter travel distance category, which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch provides a deeper and more pronounced feel due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50, whereas the TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30.
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, both the Kailh Box Jade and the TKC Tangerine switches are high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. However, the Box Jade has the added quality of being crunchy, which is commonly associated with clicky switches. It has a sound profile reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. The Tangerine, on the other hand, has a fairly high-pitched clack when typing on them, but additional sound characteristics are unknown. Please note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Box Jade offers an accented switch experience. It provides a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a medium tactile switch. The Box Jade is also described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. On the other hand, the Tangerine is known for its frictionless typing experience. It offers an extremely smooth and effortless feel, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The Tangerine switch is often described as buttery, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. It is also considered polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade and the TKC Tangerine switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Jade provides a clicky sound profile with crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps, offering a medium-heavy typing experience. It is accented and invigorating, providing a good amount of tactility without overwhelming the user. On the other hand, the Tangerine offers a smooth and pleasurable typing experience with a high-pitched clack, thanks to its UHWMPE housings. It is described as frictionless, buttery, and polished, offering an effortless and fluid keystroke. While both switches have high-pitched sound profiles, the Box Jade is the only one with crunchy tactile feedback. Depending on your preference for typing experience and sound, you can expect unique and pleasurable results with either switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and noticeable tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches are a perfect choice. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps provide an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. Additionally, the high-pitched and crunchy sound profile adds to the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the TKC Tangerine linear switches are your go-to option. With their UHWMPE housing, these switches offer a frictionless and buttery keystroke experience. The switches feel polished and refined, ensuring a sleek typing experience. While they lack the clicky sound of the Box Jade switches, the Tangerines still produce a high-pitched sound that adds a touch of satisfaction when typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switches and the TKC Tangerine linear switches depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a medium-heavy clicky experience with prominent tactile feedback, the Box Jades are an excellent choice. However, if you value a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Tangerines will offer a pleasurable and refined feel. Consider your sound and feel preferences when making your decision, and you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for you.
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