Durock Ice King Tactile vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TKC Tangerine offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Tactile is celebrated for its smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, creating a satisfying tactile experience that merges the best of both worlds. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine is praised for its incredibly smooth keystrokes and high-pitched sound, thanks to the UHWMPE housings. While the Ice King Tactile offers a symphony of touch with its silky and stepped feel, the Tangerine provides a buttery and polished typing experience. Each switch has its own characteristics that appeal to different users, making the choice between the two a matter of personal preference. 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
58g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
68g
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
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and TKC Tangerine switches differ significantly in terms of sound profile. The Ice King Tactile features nylon top and bottom housings, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Tangerine switch utilizes UHWMPE top and bottom housings, offering a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. This contrast in sound profile can impact the typing experience, with the Ice King Tactile providing a duller and rounder sound, while the Tangerine delivers a crisp and vibrant typing sound.
While both switches have unique sound characteristics due to their housing materials, they also share similarities in their use of different materials for the top and bottom housings. In both switches, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, influencing the sound profile in distinct ways. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. This split of qualities between the two housing materials can result in a nuanced typing experience for enthusiasts looking for specific sound profiles in their switches.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and TKC Tangerine switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Ice King Tactile's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch with UHWMPE housings offers a bright and resonant sound signature, catering to users looking for a more vibrant typing sound. Both switches showcase the impact of housing materials on sound profile, demonstrating how nuanced differences can elevate the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 58 grams compared to the TKC Tangerine linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Ice King Tactile has a higher bottom out force of 68 grams, while the Tangerine has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Ice King Tactile switch provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Tangerine switch offers a medium level of resistance. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Tangerine switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while users who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Ice King Tactile switch for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is clear that the Tangerine has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Ice King Tactile's 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the range of what is considered a standard travel distance, the difference of 0.5 mm may impact the feel of each switch when typing or gaming. The Tangerine may provide a slightly more pronounced actuation due to its longer travel distance, which could be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a quicker and more responsive keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 Ice King Tactile switch offers a subdued sound when pressed, creating a dampened and subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch produces a high-pitched and sharp sound with each keystroke, making it stand out for those who prefer a crisper sound profile. It's important to note that the actual sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Ice King Tactile switch provides a silky and frictionless typing experience, enhancing smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the stepped nature of the switch offers a unique tactile feel with noticeable pre-travel and post-travel stages. Comparatively, the Tangerine switch also offers a frictionless and buttery typing sensation, ensuring an effortless and uniform keystroke experience. The polished finish of both switches further contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel, adding to the overall premium feel.
Overall, while the Ice King Tactile switch excels in providing a pronounced tactile bump and a symphony of touch, the Tangerine switch stands out for its incredibly smooth and pleasurable typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, with the Ice King Tactile leaning towards a more subdued sound and silkier feel, while the Tangerine provides a high-pitched sound and buttery typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel, but rest assured that both switches promise a high-quality and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the TKC Tangerine switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a unique tactile experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a symphony of touch, opt for the Ice King Tactile. This switch offers a smooth typing feel with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, linear typing sensation with a high-pitched sound profile, the TKC Tangerine switch is the way to go. Its UHWMPE housings contribute to its incredibly smooth keystrokes and overall pleasurable typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should align with your preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel.
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