TTC Gold Brown vs. TKC Tangerine

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are plenty of options to choose from. Two popular choices in the market are the TTC Gold Brown and the TKC Tangerine. The Gold Brown switches are known for their balanced feel, with a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. They also produce a softer sound profile compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Tangerine switches offer an incredibly smooth typing experience, thanks to their UHWMPE housings. Each keystroke is a pleasure, with minimal friction and a high level of polish. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

TKC Tangerine Linear

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

$6.30 per 10

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Housing materials

The TTC Gold Brown and the TKC Tangerine switches differ in their housing materials, with the Gold Brown featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Tangerine has a UHWMPE top housing and a UHWMPE bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, which is advantageous if you plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the UHWMPE top housing of the Tangerine offers a very bright sound signature, resulting in resonant clacks when typing. Both materials contribute to distinct sound characteristics, but with different emphasis on clarity and brightness.

Regarding the bottom housing, the nylon used in the Gold Brown elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the UHWMPE bottom housing used in the Tangerine adds to its overall bright sound signature. The newer material brings about resonant clacks when pressing down on the switch, contributing to a more lively typing experience. In terms of sound characteristics, the contrast lies between the depth and fullness of the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Brown compared to the brightness and resonance of the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine.

When it comes to how the housing materials affect the overall typing experience, the impact of each material is split between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on the Gold Brown switch will primarily highlight the qualities of the softer nylon bottom housing, resulting in a distinct bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key is more influenced by the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, with the Tangerine switch, the UHWMPE bottom housing significantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the UHWMPE top housing plays a larger role in the sound when a key is released. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches provide unique sound profiles that enhance typists' experience, albeit with varying emphasis on bottom-out and release sounds.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, one noticeable difference is in their actuation forces. The Gold Brown requires 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, whereas for the Tangerine, the exact actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Gold Brown requiring 63 grams and the Tangerine requiring 62 grams. This means that when pressing down firmly on the keys, both switches will offer a similar level of resistance.

Considering weight, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is on the lighter side with its actuation force. This can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it allows for extended periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch, although its actuation force is unknown, presents the opportunity for a potentially heavier push feel. This can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback.

In summary, while the actuation force of the TTC Gold Brown switch is known and on the lighter side, the actuation force of the TKC Tangerine switch is unavailable. Nonetheless, both switches have similar medium bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and the desired weight of key activation.

Travel distance

The travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch are both 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled between the top and bottom positions. Both switches offer a similar tactile and sensory experience in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offers a balanced sound profile that is generally softer than most switches, but not completely silent. It has a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch produces a high-pitched clack when typing. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. However, it should be noted that the sound of both switches may also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience. It provides a gentle and approachable feel, with a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. It also offers a balanced level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making it a versatile choice for most users. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch provides a frictionless and buttery typing experience. It offers an extremely smooth and effortless feel, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Similar to the Gold Brown, it also has a polished finish for a sleek typing experience.

Taking into account all the available information, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Brown provides a balanced sound profile with a slight satisfying bump, while the Tangerine offers a high-pitched clack. In terms of feel, the Gold Brown provides a mild and buttery typing experience with a polished finish, while the Tangerine offers a frictionless and buttery feel with a polished finish as well. It's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches, as different individuals may prefer different sound and feel characteristics. However, if you are looking for a similar typing experience, you can expect smooth and fluid keystrokes with a polished finish from both switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a well-balanced switch with a moderate actuation force and sound profile, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a slight bump and a moderate weightiness, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. With their rounded sound profile, they offer a softer typing experience without being completely silent. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and pleasurable typing experience, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is the way to go. These switches have an incredibly smooth feel, thanks to their UHWMPE housings, which is a rarity among mechanical switches. However, it is worth noting that typing on the Tangerines may produce a fairly high-pitched clack. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your preferences for sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

Learn more

TKC Tangerine Linear

$6.30 per 10

Learn more