Bsun Hutt vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Bsun Hutt and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Bsun Hutt, a tactile switch, and the TKC Tangerine, a linear switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Hutt switch offers a medium-heavy spring with a prominent tactile bump, providing a balanced sound profile and an invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch boasts an incredibly smooth feel with UHWMPE housings, creating a frictionless and polished typing experience. While the Hutt switch is characterized by its sharp and accented feel, the Tangerine switch is known for its buttery keystrokes and high-pitched clack. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
49g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Hutt uses a polycarbonate top housing, which gives it a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the TKC Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing, which offers a very bright sound signature. Both materials contribute to creating a resonant sound, but the polycarbonate is stiffer, leading to a more clear sound profile, while the UHWMPE provides a brighter and more clacky sound when typing. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting, while the UHWMPE offers a more contemporary feel as a newer material choice.
On the other hand, the Hutt's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This is in contrast to the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing, which also offers a bright sound signature and resonant clacks when typing. Despite the contrast in materials, both contribute to enhancing the typing experience by providing different sound profiles and levels of sound absorption. The choice between a softer nylon and a newer UHWMPE bottom housing ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
When comparing the Hutt and Tangerine switches, the differences in housing materials between the top and bottom create unique typing experiences. The impact of the bottom housing can be felt in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Hutt features a mix of polycarbonate and nylon, offering a blend of sharpness and depth in sound, the Tangerine uses UHWMPE in both the top and bottom housings for a more consistent bright sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Hutt has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes compared to the Tangerine, whose actuation force is unknown. Similarly, the Hutt has a lighter bottom out force of 49 grams, indicating that it requires less pressure to fully press the key, while the Tangerine has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Hutt is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, while the Tangerine is better suited for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. In conclusion, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches cater to different preferences in typing sensations.
Travel distance
The Bsun Hutt tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the TKC Tangerine linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the Hutt switch may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the longer travel distance of the Tangerine switch may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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 Bsun Hutt tactile switch is described as having a resonant and clean sound profile, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch is noted for its high-pitched and sharp sound when pressed. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Hutt providing a higher-pitched and immersive sound, while the Tangerine produces a crisp and sharp sound that may not be appealing to those who prefer richer and bassier profiles. Ultimately, the choice of sound preference will vary depending on individual tastes and the overall keyboard setup.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch is known for offering a snappy, invigorating, sharp, and accented typing experience, characterized by pronounced feedback and a prominent tactile bump. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch provides a frictionless, buttery, and polished typing sensation, with an incredibly smooth feel and fluid key travel. These differences in tactile feedback and keypress experience showcase the versatility of mechanical keyboard switches, catering to different typing preferences and needs.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, both switches provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences. The Hutt excels in providing a resonant sound profile and tactile feedback, while the Tangerine stands out for its high-pitched sound and smooth keypress feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a more tactile and resonant typing experience or a smoother, linear feel, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy spring with a prominent tactile bump and a balanced sound profile, the Hutt switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an incredibly smooth feel with UHWMPE housings for a high-pitched clack sound and a frictionless, buttery, and polished typing sensation, the Tangerine switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing enjoyment.
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