Gateron Luciola vs. TKC Tangerine

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Luciola and the TKC Tangerine. The Luciola switches are well-known for their eye-catching glow in the dark feature. These switches offer a medium heft and provide a smooth and bouncy typing feel. The accompanying sound profile has been likened to a hollow "can of spray paint being shaken." On the other hand, the Tangerine switches are designed to elevate your typing experience with their incredibly smooth feel. Each keystroke is a pleasure, thanks in part to the rarely seen UHWMPE housings. When typing on the Tangerine switches, you'll notice a fairly high-pitched clack. Both switches have their unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Luciola Linear

TKC Tangerine Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$6.30 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Luciola and TKC Tangerine switches both boast unique housing materials that greatly affect the typing experience. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. This blend is characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that creates a satisfying and clacky sound. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch utilizes UHWMPE material for both its top and bottom housing. This newer material offers a very bright sound signature, resulting in resonant clacks when typing on switches with such housings.

Although both switches have different housing materials, they share similarities in terms of the sound profile they produce. Both the Luciola's INK blend and the Tangerine's UHWMPE material create a thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. This suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either of these switches.

However, where these switches differ is in the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience. The Luciola's proprietary INK blend is found in both the top and bottom housing, meaning that when pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play. The bottom housing significantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch's UHWMPE material is also present in both the top and bottom housing but has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Users can expect a unique sound and feel when using either switch, depending on the specific stages of pressing and releasing keys.

In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and TKC Tangerine switches may share similarities in terms of the resulting clacky sound, they differ in their specific impact on the typing experience. The Luciola's INK blend affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE material is more influential in the key release sound. Both switches offer distinct characteristics, allowing users to choose the switch that aligns with their preferences for typing feel and sound.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. The Luciola has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium range. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Tangerine is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 62 grams, also categorizing it as medium. While we don't have the specific actuation force for the Tangerine, we can assume that it would be relatively similar to the Luciola, given that they both have medium bottom out forces.

Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming sessions. This feature allows for ease and comfort during prolonged use. However, others may prefer a heavier actuation force to acquire a more substantial typing experience. For those who enjoy a stronger push feel, opting for switches with heavier forces would be more suitable. Overall, the Luciola and Tangerine switches provide comparable bottom out forces, which suggests that users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, the Luciola has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Tangerine has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing experience. The Luciola's shorter travel distance offers a more responsive feel, which can be beneficial for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Tangerine's longer travel distance provides a deeper key press, which some individuals may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is best described as clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched. This means that when pressed, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound, with a little squeak and a resonant, high-pitched quality. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is mainly characterized as high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. It is worth noting that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. However, based on the available information, it can be inferred that the Luciola switch provides a more varied and distinctive sound profile compared to the Tangerine switch, which is primarily high-pitched.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is best described as snappy, buttery, and polished. These switches offer a super responsive typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke that feels seamless, effortless, and uniform. The polished finish and reduced friction contribute to a sleek typing sensation. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is described as frictionless, buttery, and polished. This means that it offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Like the Luciola switch, the Tangerine switch also provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation with its smooth and refined finish.

Overall, based on the available information, both the Gateron Luciola and TKC Tangerine linear switches offer smooth and enjoyable typing experiences. They both have a buttery and polished feel, indicating a smooth and refined finish. However, the Luciola switch seems to have a slightly more bouncy and snappy typing feel compared to the Tangerine switch. In terms of sound, the Luciola switch provides a more diverse and unique sound profile, with the ability to be clacky, chirpy, and marbly, in addition to being high-pitched. The Tangerine switch primarily produces a high-pitched sound. If you are looking for a linear switch with a distinct and varied sound profile, as well as a bouncy and snappy typing feel, the Gateron Luciola may be the better choice for you. However, if a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a primarily high-pitched sound is what you prefer, the TKC Tangerine switch would be a suitable option.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a unique and eye-catching aesthetic, the Gateron Luciola linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches glow in the dark and have a sleek appearance. In terms of sound, the Luciola offers a clacky and chirpy typing experience, which can add some liveliness to your typing sessions. In terms of feel, the Luciola is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience.

On the other hand, if you value an incredibly smooth and enjoyable typing experience, the TKC Tangerine linear switch would be a great fit for you. These switches have a smooth feel and each keystroke is a pleasure to type. The UHWMPE housings contribute to this smoothness, making them stand out among other mechanical switches. In terms of sound, the Tangerine offers a high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp typing sound.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Luciola and TKC Tangerine switches depends on your personal preferences. If you value aesthetics and a snappy typing feel, the Luciola is a solid option. However, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Tangerine is the way to go. Consider your specific needs and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. In the end, both switches offer their own unique features that can enhance your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

TKC Tangerine Linear

$6.30 per 10

Learn more