Bsun Kiki Red vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Bsun Kiki Red and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts are presented with two compelling options. The Kiki Reds from BSUN offer a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance that is not excessively loud. On the other hand, the Tangerines provide an incredibly smooth feel with each keystroke being a pleasure to type, thanks to the UHWMPE housings. The Kiki Reds are categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Snappy', 'Easy-to-press', while the Tangerines are labeled as 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences. 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Kiki Red and TKC Tangerine both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Kiki Red features POM top and bottom housings, creating a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Tangerine's UHWMPE top and bottom housings, which offer a brighter and more resonant sound signature. This difference in housing materials directly impacts the typing experience, with the Kiki Red providing a more subdued sound while the Tangerine delivers a more vibrant and lively typing experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Bsun Kiki Red and TKC Tangerine offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The POM housings in the Kiki Red produce a pleasing sound that is deeper and more muffled, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the UHWMPE housings in the Tangerine provide a bright and resonant sound that is more pronounced, appealing to those who enjoy a livelier typing sound. Whether you prefer a more subtle or vibrant typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to a variety of preferences.
Although the Bsun Kiki Red and TKC Tangerine differ in their housing materials, they both ultimately aim to enhance the typing experience with their unique sound profiles. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when keys are released. While the Kiki Red may offer a deeper and more muted sound due to its POM housing, the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing provides a brighter and more resonant sound signature. Despite these differences, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to an enhanced typing experience for enthusiasts looking for a unique sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is clear that the Kiki Red is the lighter option. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Tangerine switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a heavier feel when typing. The lighter actuation force of the Kiki Red may appeal to users who want a more effortless typing experience for extended periods, while the heavier bottom out force of the Tangerine may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is 3.6mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the TKC Tangerine has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bsun Kiki Red. A 3.6mm travel distance is considered on the shorter side, making it ideal for those who prioritize a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, a 4mm travel distance provides a bit more depth and may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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
The Bsun Kiki Red switch offers a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience without being overly loud. In comparison, the TKC Tangerine switch produces a high-pitched sound, delivering a crisp and sharp auditory feedback during typing. When it comes to feel, the Kiki Red switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch is noted for its frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, providing an effortless and uniform keystroke sensation. Overall, both switches offer premium quality sound and feel, catering to different preferences in auditory feedback and tactile experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a clacky sound with subtle tactile feedback (Kiki Red) or a high-pitched sound with smooth keystrokes (Tangerine). Whichever switch you go with, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch or the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in typing experience. If you value a finely-tuned typing experience with a subtly high-pitched, clacky sound and medium-light weighting for a balanced tactile feedback, then the Kiki Red is the way to go. On the other hand, if you seek an incredibly smooth typing feel with a fairly high-pitched sound, thanks to the UHWMPE housings and polished finish, then the Tangerine switch would be ideal for you. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what aspects of sound and feel are most important to you in order to make the best decision for your typing needs.
Mentioned in this article
