Outemu Crystal vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When searching for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out among the competition are the Outemu Crystal and the TKC Tangerine. The Crystal switches offer a unique, linear typing experience with a moderately light weight and a slightly elastic feel. Typing on the Crystals produces a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for any environment. On the other hand, the Tangerine switches elevate the typing experience to new heights with their incredibly smooth feel. Each keystroke is a true pleasure, thanks to the UHWMPE housings, a rare feature in bespoke mechanical switches. While they produce a high-pitched clack when typing, the smoothness they offer is unmatched. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on which switch suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the TKC Tangerine differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Crystal utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The transparent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Tangerine features a top housing made of UHWMPE, a newer material that produces a very bright sound signature and offers resonant clacks when typing. This indicates that the top-out sound on the Tangerine may be more pronounced compared to the Crystal's top housing.
However, in terms of similarities, both switches have the characteristic of producing clear and resonant sound profiles. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the Crystal's housing and the UHWMPE material in the Tangerine's housing both contribute to this quality. Additionally, both switches adopt translucency in their top housing design, providing an aesthetically pleasing option for those who appreciate the visual effects of RGB lighting. Therefore, while the specific materials may differ, users can expect similar results in terms of a sharp, clear sound profile and the option for RGB lighting customization.
It is worth noting that the distinction between the top and bottom housings of these switches plays a role in the sound and feel when typing. The bottom housing, which contains the qualities of the polycarbonate or UHWMPE material, will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feeling when pressing down a key. On the other hand, the top housing will contribute more to the sound when releasing a key. This highlights the importance of considering the materials used in both the top and bottom housings of a switch, as they can significantly influence the overall typing experience.
In summary, the Outemu Crystal's polycarbonate housing materials yield a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both the top and bottom housing. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it a suitable choice for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for its top housing, providing a very bright sound signature and resonant clacks while typing. Despite the differences, both switches offer clear and resonant sound profiles, with the top housing having a greater impact on the sound when key releases, and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Outemu Crystal switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch has an unavailable actuation force and a bottom out force of 62 grams, classifying it as a medium switch.
In terms of weight, the lighter actuation force of the Crystal switch allows for a more effortless typing experience, making it ideal for extended periods of typing or long gaming sessions. This would be particularly beneficial for individuals who prefer a lighter touch on their keyboards. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more pronounced push feel and resulting in a more substantial typing experience. For those who enjoy a more tactile and satisfying keystroke, the Tangerine switch would be a suitable choice.
Where the actuation force is unknown for the Tangerine switch, it is difficult to draw a direct comparison with the Crystal switch. However, based on the provided information, we can infer that the two switches may offer similar results, as both fall within the medium to medium-light range of actuation force.
Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Crystal and TKC Tangerine switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. If a lighter touch and extended typing sessions are desired, the Crystal switch may be the preferred option. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience and a slightly heavier keystroke, the Tangerine switch would be a suitable choice.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard switch. Both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. The similarity in travel distance implies that the typing experience offered by both switches will be comparable in terms of the tactile feedback and actuation sensitivity. Therefore, whether you opt for the Outemu Crystal or the TKC Tangerine, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of the travel distance of the switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal switches are known for their neutral sound profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a fairly balanced sound without any distinct characteristics. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switches tend to produce a fairly high-pitched clack when pressed. This means that each keystroke on the Tangerines will have a sharp and crisp sound. Although both switches are described as high-pitched, they may still have slightly different sound profiles due to other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. However, based on the available information, if you prefer a more neutral sound, the Crystal switches would be a suitable choice, while if you enjoy a slightly louder and sharper sound, the Tangerine switches would be more fitting.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal switches offer a fairly elastic and medium-light typing experience. These switches have a unique linear feel with a slight elasticity to them. This means that the typing experience on the Crystals will have a responsive and bouncy feel, combined with a medium-light weight. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switches provide an incredibly smooth typing experience. This is attributed to the Tangerines' use of UHWMPE housings, which are rare in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. The Tangerines are described as frictionless, buttery, and polished, indicating a smooth, effortless, and refined typing sensation. While both switches offer smooth key travel, the Tangerine switches may provide a more seamless and uniform typing experience due to their unique housing material. Therefore, if you value a slightly bouncier and medium-light typing experience, the Crystal switches would be a good choice, whereas if an exceptionally smooth and frictionless typing experience appeals to you, the Tangerine switches would be more suitable.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal and TKC Tangerine switches differ in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switches provide a neutral sound profile and a fairly elastic and medium-light typing experience, resulting in a unique linear feel. On the other hand, the Tangerine switches have a slightly high-pitched clack sound and offer an incredibly smooth and effortless typing experience, thanks to the rare UHWMPE housings. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preferences. If you prefer a more neutral sound and a bouncier typing experience, the Crystal switches would be a suitable option. However, if you enjoy a sharper and crisper sound with an exceptionally smooth and frictionless typing experience, the Tangerine switches would be a better fit. Keep in mind that while the available information provides insight into the subjective qualities of these switches, individual experiences may vary due to other factors such as keyboard board and keycap choices.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, the Crystal with its 55 grams would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Tangerine with its 62 grams would be more suitable.
In terms of sound, both switches have a high-pitched profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. If you enjoy this type of sound, either switch would work for you.
When it comes to feel, both switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience. However, the Tangerine switch has the added advantage of being described as frictionless and buttery, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. If you prioritize a fluid key travel and a seamless typing sensation, the Tangerine switch would be a great choice.
Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Crystal and the TKC Tangerine comes down to personal preference. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences.
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