Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, you are presented with two very distinct options to elevate your typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavy actuation and bottom-out force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantive typing feel. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine offers an incredibly smooth and pleasurable typing experience, thanks to its unique UHWMPE housings. While the G Pro 3.0 Black showcases a medium-high pitch auditory experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Tangerine provides a high-pitched clack and a frictionless, buttery feel. Both switches bring something different to the table, catering to various preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE top housing that offers a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. While both housing materials provide a unique sound experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black's top housing leans towards a sharper sound profile compared to the Tangerine's top housing.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM material creates a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing mirrors the bright sound signature of its top housing, offering resonant clacks when typing. The contrast between the deeper sound of the POM bottom housing in the G Pro 3.0 Black and the consistent bright sound of the UHWMPE bottom housing in the Tangerine highlights the differences in sound characteristics between the two switches.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TKC Tangerine both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a sharper and clackier sound experience, especially with its INK blend top housing. In comparison, the Tangerine provides a more consistent and bright sound signature throughout, thanks to its UHWMPE housing materials. However, if you are looking for similar results in terms of sound characteristics in both switches, you can expect a satisfying and unique experience with either option.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, we find that the G Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Tangerine's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro requires 70 grams, making it heavier than the Tangerine's 62 grams bottom out force. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of force required, but the G Pro leans slightly towards the heavier side. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Tangerine may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the G Pro may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the TKC Tangerine linear switches have identical travel distances of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience in terms of travel distance. This similarity ensures that whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Black or the Tangerine, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is often described as having a clacky and somewhat subdued sound profile. This means it produces a sharp, snappy sound when pressed, with a medium-high pitch that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and crisp auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the more subdued sound of the G Pro 3.0 Black or the higher-pitched sound of the Tangerine.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the G Pro 3.0 Black is often described as having a creamy, silky, and subtle typing experience. This means that the keystrokes feel smooth, buttery, and effortless, with a gentle resistance that is not too heavy. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch is known for its frictionless, buttery, and polished feel. This results in an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, with minimal resistance and a sleek finish. Whether you prefer the subtle smoothness of the G Pro 3.0 Black or the ultra-smooth feel of the Tangerine switch, both offer a premium typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer different sound and feel profiles to cater to a variety of preferences. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a balanced medium-heavy feel with a clacky, medium-high pitch sound, the Tangerine switch offers an incredibly smooth typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference, with both options delivering premium quality and a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, you should consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a more substantial typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a medium-high pitch sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize an incredibly smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a high-pitched clack sound, the Tangerine switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing the right one for you will enhance your overall typing experience.
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