Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is praised for its budget-friendly option with a smooth and satisfying poppy and clacky sound, making it a great choice for those looking for a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine stands out for its ultra-smooth feel and UHWMPE housings, providing a high-quality typing experience characterized by a high-pitched clack. 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TKC Tangerine both utilize unique and innovative materials for their switch housings. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material is especially useful for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Tangerine uses UHWMPE for its top housing, which offers a bright sound signature and resonant clacks while typing. While both materials provide distinct sound characteristics, the polycarbonate of the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a stiffer and more resonant profile compared to the UHWMPE of the Tangerine.
On the other hand, the housing materials for the bottom of the switches differ between the two models. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. In comparison, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for the bottom housing, offering a bright sound signature with resonant clacks while typing. Both materials bring unique qualities to the switches, with the V3 Cream Black Pro providing a softer and more absorbing sound profile with nylon while the Tangerine offers a brighter and more resonant sound with UHWMPE.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing. While the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and TKC Tangerine differ in their top and bottom housing materials, both provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The use of polycarbonate in the V3 Cream Black Pro top housing creates a stiffer and clearer sound profile, while the UHWMPE top housing of the Tangerine offers a bright and resonant sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine offers a brighter sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for sound and feel.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the TKC Tangerine linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Tangerine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making the Tangerine slightly lighter in overall typing feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming, the TKC Tangerine may be the better choice. On the other hand, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a bit more resistance, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro could be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in regards to typing force and key feel.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Tangerine switch has a longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro. The difference of 0.7 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience for some users. Generally, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more substantial and satisfying key press. Both switches offer a different feel and response due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately depends on personal preference when choosing between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the TKC Tangerine switches are described as having a high-pitched sound profile, producing sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This means that they may not offer the rich and bassy sound profiles of some other switches, making them a good choice for those who prefer a sharper tone. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro switches are described as having a creamy and bouncy sensation, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a lively feedback when pressed. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switches are described as providing a frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to deliver a silky sensation, making each keystroke a pleasure.
Overall, while the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and TKC Tangerine switches may have different specific qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both aim to provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a bouncier and creamy feel or a frictionless and buttery sensation, both switches offer a high-quality option for those looking to elevate their typing experience. As such, users can expect similar results in terms of overall satisfaction and performance with either of these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force at 65 grams, along with a unique poppy and clacky sound, and a creamy and bouncy typing experience, then the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force at 62 grams, a high-pitched clack sound, and a frictionless and buttery typing experience, then the TKC Tangerine switch may be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what factors are most important to you in your typing experience.
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