Gazzew LT vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew LT and the TKC Tangerine both offer their own unique features and advantages. The Gazzew LT switches are best known for their enticing lilac hue and the auditory symphony they create with each keystroke, emanating a deep, resonant thockiness. The seamless glide they provide adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switches take typing to the next level with their incredibly smooth feel. The UHWMPE housings, a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches, contribute to this buttery sensation. While the LTs are categorized as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, the Tangerines offer a fairly high-pitched clack when typing on them. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and TKC Tangerine switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. While the LT utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housing, the Tangerine switches feature UHWMPE material for both housing components.
In terms of sound profile, both switches contribute to a rich and deep sound due to their softness. The Gazzew blend top and bottom housings, also known as "boba plastic," result in a pleasing and mellow auditory experience. Similarly, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top and bottom housing offer a resonant clack sound characteristic. Thus, whether you choose the LT or the Tangerine, you can expect comparable results in terms of sound quality.
However, it's worth noting that the distribution of housing material influences the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and sensation when pressing down on a key. With the LT, the Gazzew blend bottom housing adds to the softness and overall experience of bottoming out. Conversely, the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to a bright and impactful bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key, and both the Gazzew blend and UHWMPE materials deliver their distinct sound profiles in this aspect.
In summary, the Gazzew LT and TKC Tangerine switches provide similar sound profiles due to their respective housing materials. While the Gazzew blend and UHWMPE materials result in a rich and deep sound, their distribution in the top and bottom housings influences the typing experience. The LT's Gazzew blend bottom housing emphasizes a softer bottom-out sensation, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to a brighter and impactful sound. Both switches exhibit their distinct sound profiles when releasing a key, thanks to their top housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for specific sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, both switches have an unknown actuation force. However, the LT switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Tangerine switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium.
Considering weight as an important factor, the LT switch is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Tangerine switch. This heavier bottom out force may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. However, it should be noted that the actuation force remains unknown for both switches.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, especially for longer periods of typing or extended gaming sessions, the lighter bottom out force of the Tangerine switch may be more suitable. Both switches offer medium levels of resistance when bottoming out, ensuring a satisfying typing experience without excessive force.
In conclusion, while the actuation forces remain unknown for both switches, the Gazzew LT linear switch provides a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the TKC Tangerine linear switch. However, for individuals seeking a lighter typing experience, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is on the shorter side compared to the TKC Tangerine linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Tangerine switch is more traditional, offering a deeper keystroke sensation. On the other hand, the 3.2 mm travel distance of the LT switch is preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation and key presses. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial and satisfying keystroke, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Tangerine switch may be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and whether you value a shorter, more responsive travel distance or a longer, more substantial one respectively.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50, whereas the TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gazzew LT linear switches are best known for their deep and resonant "thockiness." These switches produce a lower frequency sound, resembling the richness and depth associated with bass tones. The LT switches offer a satisfying, almost "knock-like" sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switches have a higher-pitched sound profile. They produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which may appeal to those who prefer a more vibrant and less bass-heavy sound. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew LT switches do not have any specific descriptors provided. Unfortunately, without additional information, it is unclear how these switches feel to type on. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switches are described as "frictionless," offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. These switches minimize any sense of resistance or friction, providing a fluid travel with each key press. The Tangerine switches are also referred to as "buttery," indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This implies that typing on these switches is seamless, effortless, and uniform. Additionally, the Tangerine switches may feature a polished finish, further contributing to a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all available information into account, the Gazzew LT switches are best known for their deep and resonant sound, often described as "thocky." On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switches are touted for their smooth and effortless feel, with a frictionless and polished typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a deeper and richer sound with a seamless glide, the Gazzew LT switches would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a higher-pitched sound, the TKC Tangerine switches would be a great option. It is worth noting that individual preferences may vary, and it is recommended to consider other factors such as board choice and keycaps to achieve the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, both the Gazzew LT linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences. If you prioritize a deeper and richer sound profile with a lower frequency range, the LT switches would be an excellent choice as they are described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. Additionally, the LT switches provide a seamless glide with every keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a high-pitched sound that produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, the Tangerine switches would be ideal. These switches are also known for their incredibly smooth feel, thanks to their UHWMPE housings. Descriptors such as frictionless, buttery, and polished are used to emphasize the smooth and effortless typing experience the Tangerine switches offer. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Mentioned in this article
