TTC Honey vs. TKC Tangerine

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a multitude of options available, each offering its own unique characteristics and advantages. Two prominent linear switches that stand out in terms of smoothness and typing pleasure are the TTC Honey and the TKC Tangerine. The Honey switch is best known for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a satisfying typing experience. Its deep and pleasant sound profile further adds to its appeal. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch takes the typing experience to the next level with its incredibly smooth feel, making every keystroke a pleasure. Its use of UHWMPE housings sets it apart from other switches, adding an extra layer of refinement. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

TTC Honey Linear

TKC Tangerine Linear

$9.99

$6.78 per 10

$6.30 per 10

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Housing materials

The TTC Honey and TKC Tangerine switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings, which affects the sound profile and typing experience. The Honey features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, making it especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE top housing, a newer material that offers a very bright sound signature and produces resonant clacks while typing. Both materials bring unique characteristics to the switches, with polycarbonate lending a more translucent and aesthetic appeal, while UHWMPE adds a vibrant sound experience.

In terms of the bottom housings, the TTC Honey and TKC Tangerine switches continue to diverge in their choice of materials. The Honey employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which also contributes to its sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the bottom-out sound. Conversely, the Tangerine incorporates a UHWMPE bottom housing, which shares its bright sound signature with the top housing. This material is relatively new for switch housings and provides its characteristic resonant clacks when typing. The choice of bottom housing material plays a significant role in the impact and feel when pressing down on the switch, further differentiating the sound and tactile experience between the Honey and Tangerine switches.

When comparing the effects of the top and bottom housings on the switches, it becomes evident that the qualities of each material are divided between them. The bottom housing has a more substantial influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, as it is the portion that comes into direct contact with the keypress. Therefore, the characteristics of the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Honey and the UHWMPE bottom housing in the Tangerine significantly shape the auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the top housing's impact becomes more prominent when releasing a key, contributing to the sound profile during key release. Understanding the contrasting roles of these housing materials provides insight into the subtle yet significant differences in sound and overall typing experience between the Honey and Tangerine switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Honey linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is clear that they have different characteristics. The Honey switch boasts a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams, making it easy to trigger keystrokes. In contrast, the actuation force for the Tangerine switch is not provided, so it is unknown how it compares in this aspect. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Honey switch requires 50 grams of force to press all the way down, which can be considered quite moderate. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience.

Considering weight becomes important for various reasons. Some users prefer lighter switches, like the Honey, as it allows them to type for extended periods without fatigue. This makes it an ideal choice for those who use their keyboards for work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals seeking a more robust typing experience might prefer switches with heavier forces, such as the Tangerine. By exerting a stronger push feel, these switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback.

It is worth noting that if someone desires a similar typing experience to the Tangerine but prefers a lighter switch, they could potentially achieve comparable results by bottoming out with the Honey switch. However, it should be acknowledged that the Tangerine switch itself provides a more substantial and satisfying typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force.

Travel distance

The TTC Honey linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have different travel distances. The Honey has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Tangerine has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of a traditional travel distance, the Tangerine falls closer to the standard 4.0 mm, while the Honey is slightly shorter. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Honey switch. This shorter distance allows for quicker key presses and can enhance gaming performance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Tangerine switch with its longer travel distance. The 0.2 mm difference in travel distance may seem insignificant, but it can contribute to a noticeable variation in the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Honey and the TKC Tangerine switches have different characteristics. The Honey switches are described as producing a subdued sound when pressed. This means that they offer a dampened and more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Tangerine switches have a high-pitched clack when typing on them. This results in a sharp and crisp sound that may be preferable for those who don't like rich and bassy sound profiles. It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.

In terms of feel, both the Honey and Tangerine switches share some similarities. They both offer a frictionless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. This results in a smooth and effortless keystroke, allowing your fingers to glide across the keys with ease. Additionally, both switches are described as being buttery, meaning they provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The switches have a polished finish, either due to specific materials used or factory lubing, which contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience. Overall, the feel of both switches is highly smooth and enjoyable.

Taking all available information into consideration, the TTC Honey and TKC Tangerine linear switches offer subjective qualities that are similar in many aspects. They both provide a smooth and creamy feel, ensuring a pleasant typing experience. While the Honey switches have a subdued sound profile, the Tangerine switches produce a high-pitched clack. However, it's worth noting that the sound of the switches can be influenced by external factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. The feel of both switches is described as frictionless, buttery, and polished, resulting in a smooth and refined keystroke. Overall, both the TTC Honey and TKC Tangerine switches are excellent options for those seeking a high-quality linear switch, and depending on personal preferences, either choice can provide similar results in terms of sound and feel.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the TTC Honey linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, you should take into consideration your desired bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter switch with a bottom out force of 50 grams and a smooth and creamy feel, the Honey switch would be the ideal choice for you. It also offers a deep and pleasant sound profile, providing a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-bottom out force of 62 grams and an incredibly smooth typing experience, the Tangerine switch is the way to go. With its UHWMPE housings, it provides a higher-pitched clack when typing. Both switches offer a frictionless and buttery typing experience, ensuring effortless key travel. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Honey Linear

$9.99

$6.78 per 10

Learn more

TKC Tangerine Linear

$6.30 per 10

Learn more