TKC Kiwi vs. Everglide Oreo

Overview

The TKC Kiwi and Everglide Oreo are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences. The Kiwi switches are known for their medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, enhancing the tactile feedback during typing. They also have a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that adds to the immersive experience. Additionally, these switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience straight out of the box. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo switches provide a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. They offer a medium light tactility, striking a perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing. Moreover, these switches have a subtle and mellow sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can ultimately decide on the best switch for your specific preferences and needs.

By the numbers

Housing materials

The TKC Kiwi and the Everglide Oreo differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound signatures and aesthetics. The Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, which produces a bright sound when typing and offers resonant clacks. In contrast, the Oreo's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for enhanced lighting effects. Therefore, while both switches provide a distinct sound experience, the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing may offer a slightly brighter and resonant sound compared to the Oreo's polycarbonate top housing.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Kiwi incorporates UHWMPE, which again contributes to its bright sound signature and resonance. Likewise, the Oreo utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and clearer sound profile. While both housings have similar effects on the overall sound, the Oreo's polycarbonate material may provide a more pronounced and distinct bottom-out sound and feel. This material's stiffness plays a role in creating a more resonant sound and a satisfying tactile experience when pressing keys.

When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Kiwi and the Oreo, it is clear that both switches prioritize sound quality and aesthetics. The choice of housing materials allows for unique sound signatures and experiences. The Kiwi's UHWMPE top and bottom housing provide a consistent bright and resonant sound throughout the keystroke. In contrast, the Oreo's polycarbonate top and bottom housing create a sharper and crisper sound, making it more appealing for those who prefer a distinct sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to an overall satisfying typing experience. Whether you choose the Kiwi or the Oreo, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and responsiveness, albeit with slight variations based on the specific housing materials used.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it becomes evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Kiwi has an actuation force of 43 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Oreo's actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Kiwi requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Kiwi is heavier with a force of 67 grams compared to the Oreo's 55 grams.

Considering weight, the Kiwi can be considered medium-heavy in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, making it suitable for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Oreo is medium-light in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it a favorable option for individuals who prefer a lighter touch for extended periods of typing or gaming sessions.

It's worth noting that although the forces differ between the two switches, they are relatively close, leading to similar overall results. Both switches provide tactile feedback when pressed and offer a satisfying typing experience. However, those who prioritize a lighter typing experience should lean towards the Everglide Oreo, while individuals seeking a more robust and substantial feel may find the TKC Kiwi to be a better fit.

Travel distance

The TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel, providing a consistent tactile feedback. Whether you choose the TKC Kiwi or the Everglide Oreo, you can expect a satisfying key press with a 4mm travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This gives the Kiwi switches a satisfyingly snappy sound that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is described as having a chirpy sound. This unique acoustic signature sets the Oreo switches apart from others, adding a little squeak to the sound profile. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Kiwi switches would be a great choice. If you prefer a switch with a distinct chirpy sound, the Oreo switches are worth considering.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the TKC Kiwi and Everglide Oreo switches have similar qualities. They are both described as accented switches, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. This means that they offer a satisfying tactile bump during keypresses, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, both switches are also described as stepped switches. This means that they have a two-stage feel, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel in comparison to hypertactile switches. This mild tactile feedback adds to the overall comfort and responsiveness of typing on these switches. Moreover, both switches are mentioned to have a polished finish, indicating that they are smooth and refined. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, further enhancing the typing experience. Therefore, in terms of feel, you can expect similar results from both the TKC Kiwi and Everglide Oreo switches.

Taking all the available information into account, the TKC Kiwi tactile switches and Everglide Oreo tactile switches offer different sound profiles but have similar qualities in terms of feel. The Kiwi switches have a low-pitched and neutral sound that delivers an immersive typing experience, while the Oreo switches have a distinct chirpy sound. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile bump and have a stepped feel, offering a comfortable typing experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Kiwi switches would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a unique chirpy sound, the Oreo switches are worth considering. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer a great typing experience with their accented tactility and polished feel.

Conclusion

To wrap up, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a low-pitched sound profile, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a satisfyingly snappy typing experience with a medium to medium-strong tactile bump at the top of each key press. They are also lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a chirpy sound profile, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch would be more suitable for you. These switches provide a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a delightfully cushioned sensation when bottoming out. They offer a palatable medium light tactility and a subtle, mellow sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the TKC Kiwi and Everglide Oreo switches depends on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience.

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