Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the TKC Tangerine are both excellent options to consider. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its unique material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon to create a creamy yet lightweight switch with a slightly textured feel. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine boasts UHWMPE housings for an incredibly smooth typing experience and a high-pitched clack. While the Keygeek Raw is best for those who prefer a mild and subtle feel, the Tangerine is perfect for those who enjoy a buttery and polished typing experience. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw and TKC Tangerine both boast unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Keygeek Raw features a Nylon & UPE blend top housing, while the Tangerine showcases a UHWMPE top housing. Both switches offer bright sound signatures, with the Keygeek Raw emphasizing a resonant clack when typing. In terms of bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a UMPE & Si blend, while the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE. These materials play a significant role in the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound upon key release.
While the Keygeek Raw and TKC Tangerine have different top and bottom housing materials, the end result may still yield similar outcomes due to their bright sound signatures and resonant clacks. The Nylon & UPE blend in the Keygeek Raw's top housing may provide a unique tactile feedback, while the UHWMPE top housing in the TKC Tangerine offers its own distinctive typing experience. The UMPE & Si blend bottom housing in the Keygeek Raw and the UHWMPE bottom housing in the Tangerine both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches, with the bottom housing more noticeably impacting the bottom-out sound and feel during typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and TKC Tangerine housing materials may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired. Both switches offer intriguing blends of materials that result in bright sound signatures and resonant clacks, showcasing the importance of housing materials in defining the overall feel and sound of a switch. Whether you prefer the unique blend of Nylon & UPE in the Keygeek Raw or the newer UHWMPE material in the TKC Tangerine, each switch provides a distinct typing experience that enthusiasts may appreciate.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, the actuation force of both switches is unknown, but the Keygeek Raw has a bottom out force of 57.5 grams, while the Tangerine has a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, providing a satisfying typing experience without being too heavy. The Keygeek Raw may be slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force, which could appeal to those who prefer a slightly lighter keystroke for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine may offer a bit more resistance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the TKC Tangerine linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the Keygeek Raw may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Tangerine may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, with the Keygeek Raw providing a quicker feel and the Tangerine offering a more deliberate keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 Keygeek Raw switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and user preferences. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch is known for producing a high-pitched clack when typing, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a sharper sound. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap choice.
When it comes to feel, the Keygeek Raw switch offers a textured and mildly resistant typing experience, providing a unique feel that some users may appreciate. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine switch is known for its frictionless and buttery smooth keystrokes, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation that can be appealing to those who prioritize a smooth typing experience. The polished finish of the Tangerine switch also contributes to a refined and sleek typing feel.
Overall, while the Keygeek Raw and TKC Tangerine switches offer different sound and feel experiences, both switches have their own unique qualities that make them appealing to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a more neutral sound profile and textured feel with the Keygeek Raw, or a high-pitched sound and buttery smooth keystrokes with the TKC Tangerine, both switches provide a quality typing experience that can enhance your overall enjoyment of using a mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the TKC Tangerine linear switches, consider the following: If you appreciate a slightly textured feel and a neutral sound profile, the Keygeek Raw switches may be the right choice for you. They offer a unique material blend that provides a creamy yet lightweight typing experience, making them a good starting point for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a frictionless and buttery smooth typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, the TKC Tangerine switches might be more appealing to you. With UHWMPE housings and a high-pitched clack, these switches elevate your typing pleasure to the next level. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for feel and sound, as both switches offer medium bottom out forces and quality performance. Consider your typing style and preferences to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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