Jwick Ginger Milk vs. TKC Tangerine

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Jwick Ginger Milk and the TKC Tangerine. The Ginger Milk is known for its soft and pastel appearance, reflecting the smooth and approachable typing experience it offers. These switches provide a silky push feel and create a muted, snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch takes the typing experience to the next level with its incredible smoothness. Each keystroke on the Tangerine switch feels like a pleasure, thanks in part to its rare UHWMPE housings. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch is perfect for you.

By the numbers

Jwick Ginger Milk Linear

TKC Tangerine Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

$6.30 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of Jwick Ginger Milk and TKC Tangerine switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Ginger Milk features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This stiffer plastic results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for users who prioritize a precise and vibrant typing sound. In contrast, the Tangerine switch utilizes a UHWMPE top housing, a newer material that produces a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. While it shares the goal of offering a pronounced typing sound, the Tangerine's sound profile may differ slightly due to the unique properties of the UHWMPE material.

When it comes to the bottom housing, the Ginger Milk employs a nylon material, known for its classic switch housing qualities. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, which can be desirable for those seeking a softer and more muted typing sound. On the other hand, the Tangerine incorporates a UHWMPE bottom housing, matching its top housing material. This newer material also offers a bright sound signature, contributing to resonant clacks while typing. While the specifics of the UHWMPE bottom housing may differ from the nylon used in the Ginger Milk, both materials aim to provide a satisfying audible experience during typing.

The distinction between the top and bottom housings of these switches is crucial to consider. With the Ginger Milk, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. The softer nature of nylon can contribute to a deeper and more cushioned bottom-out sound. Comparatively, the impact of the top housing is more noticeable when releasing a key, influencing the sound produced during key release. In the Tangerine switch, the UHWMPE top and bottom housings work in tandem, both contributing to the sound profile during typing. As a result, the sound when pressing down and releasing a key are likely to exhibit bright and resonant characteristics, thanks to the choice of UHWMPE material in both housing components.

In conclusion, the housing materials of Jwick Ginger Milk and TKC Tangerine switches offer unique characteristics that shape the audible experience during typing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Ginger Milk provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. In contrast, the Tangerine switch utilizes UHWMPE material for both top and bottom housings, resulting in a bright and resonant sound. While there are differences between the two switches, they share the common goal of delivering an enjoyable and distinctive typing sound.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the TKC Tangerine linear switches, it is evident that there are some similarities and differences. The Ginger Milk has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which falls under the category of medium-heavy. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Tangerine switch is unknown, but its bottom out force is 62 grams, categorized as medium.

In terms of weight, the Ginger Milk switch is slightly heavier than the Tangerine switch, as it requires a slightly higher force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out. This added weight in the Ginger Milk switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, it is worth noting that the difference in force between the two switches is minimal, so one can still expect comparable results in terms of typing experience.

Considering the preferences of individuals, the choice between these switches may vary. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer periods of typing or extended gaming sessions, may lean towards the Tangerine switch due to its lower force requirements. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a more robust typing experience may opt for the Ginger Milk switch, as its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces offer a more substantial feel when pressing the keys.

In conclusion, while the Ginger Milk switch is slightly heavier than the Tangerine switch, both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces. Therefore, individuals can expect similar results in terms of typing experience, with a slight preference for lighter or heavier forces guiding their choice between the two switches.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance between the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that there is a slight distinction. The Ginger Milk has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Tangerine boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Although both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Tangerine switch offers a tad more depth compared to the Ginger Milk. For those seeking a more rapid response time, the Ginger Milk's shorter travel distance may be ideal. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key may opt for the TKC Tangerine switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Jwick Ginger Milk switch offers a muted and snappy sound profile. It can be described as neutral, which means it has a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch produces a higher-pitched clack sound when typing. This switch is recommended for those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile. It is important to note that the actual sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Jwick Ginger Milk switch provides a silky smooth and approachable push feel. The typing experience with these switches can be described as buttery, offering a seamless and uniform sensation with every keystroke. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch boasts an incredibly smooth feel due to its UHWMPE housings, which are considered rare in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. This switch can be characterized as frictionless, providing an effortless and fluid typing experience. The Tangerine switch can also be described as buttery and polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Overall, both the Jwick Ginger Milk and TKC Tangerine linear switches offer subjective qualities that enhance the typing experience. While the Ginger Milk switch provides a muted and snappy sound profile with a silky smooth and approachable push feel, the Tangerine switch offers a higher-pitched clack sound and an incredibly smooth feel with its UHWMPE housings. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can deliver an enjoyable typing experience. It is important to consider factors such as sound profiles and feel when choosing between these switches, as well as the other components of your keyboard setup.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams and a muted, snappy sound profile, then the Ginger Milk would be a great option for you. Additionally, if you value a buttery and seamless typing experience, the Ginger Milk delivers on this aspect.

On the other hand, if you prioritize an incredibly smooth feel and enjoy a higher-pitched clack when typing, the Tangerine would be more suitable for you. With its UHWMPE housings, the Tangerine offers a unique and pleasurable typing experience. Furthermore, if you prefer a frictionless and polished switch that minimizes resistance and provides a sleek typing experience, the Tangerine satisfies these qualities.

When it comes to sound, the Ginger Milk offers a neutral sound profile that suits most purposes, while the Tangerine produces a sharp and crisp high-pitched sound. Consider your preference for sound when making your decision.

In summary, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a muted, snappy sound profile and a buttery typing experience, choose the Ginger Milk. If you prioritize an incredibly smooth feel, a high-pitched clack, and a frictionless, polished typing experience, opt for the Tangerine. Ultimately, your choice should align with what brings you the most joy and enjoyment during your typing sessions.

Mentioned in this article

Jwick Ginger Milk Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

TKC Tangerine Linear

$6.30 per 10

Learn more