Dareu Master vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options include the Dareu Master and the TKC Tangerine, both of which are linear switches. The Dareu Master is known for its all-POM linear switch, offering a medium weight that provides a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine stands out for its incredibly smooth feel, thanks to the UHWMPE housings that are a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches, resulting in a high-pitched clack when typing. While the Master switch leans towards a mild and polished typing experience, the Tangerine switch boasts a buttery and polished feel. Each switch brings its own unique qualities to the table, making it a tough choice between the two. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and the TKC Tangerine both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Master's POM top and bottom housing create a deep and muted sound, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE top and bottom housing offer a bright and resonant sound signature. These contrasting properties result in vastly different typing experiences for users of each switch. While the Master provides a more subdued typing experience, the Tangerine offers a livelier and more energetic sound when typing.
Despite their differences, the Dareu Master and TKC Tangerine both prioritize sound quality and uniqueness in their housing materials. While the Master's POM housing creates a pleasing and unique sound profile, the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing offers a more vibrant and resonant typing experience. Both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience that is distinct from traditional switch housings. Whether you prefer a more muted sound or a brighter clack, both the Master and the Tangerine cater to different preferences with their unique housing materials.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in a switch can greatly impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material, such as impact on bottom-out sound and feel, are felt when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile of a switch is essential in selecting the right one for your typing preferences. Whether you prefer a deep and muted sound or a bright and resonant one, the choice between the Dareu Master and TKC Tangerine ultimately comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Master switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Tangerine switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Tangerine switch is heavier with a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Master switch has an unavailable bottom out force. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces can result in a different typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Master switch for prolonged typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Tangerine switch for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Tangerine has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Master, which may provide a more traditional typing experience with a bit more key travel. However, the Master's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, especially gamers. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Master being slightly shorter and the Tangerine being slightly longer, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a classic clacky sound signature that is sharp and percussive in nature. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch produces a high-pitched sound that is crisp and sharp. Depending on personal preferences, some may prefer the sharp clack of the Master switch, while others may enjoy the higher-pitched sound of the Tangerine switch. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, especially when paired with the right keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides a sleek key travel. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch provides a frictionless and buttery typing sensation, with an extremely smooth and effortless key press. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, but the Master switch may appeal to those looking for a gentler typing experience, while the Tangerine switch may be preferred by those seeking a more fluid and uniform feel.
Overall, both the Dareu Master linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Master switch provides a classic clacky sound and a polished typing experience, while the Tangerine switch offers a high-pitched sound and a buttery, frictionless feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch. Ultimately, experimenting with both switches on different keyboards and keycap sets can help you determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with a medium weight and a classic clacky sound, the Dareu Master may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smoother typing experience with a high-pitched sound and a buttery feel, the TKC Tangerine switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision.
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