KTT Matcha vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and the TKC Tangerine are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for users. The Matcha is a tactile switch that is best known for its comfortable and snappy tactility while typing. This switch provides a distinctly clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Tangerine is a linear switch that aims to elevate your typing experience with its incredibly smooth feel. Each keystroke using the Tangerine switch is a pleasure, largely due to the rare UHWMPE housings it features. While typing on the Tangerine switch, users may notice a fairly high-pitched clack. Both switches offer their own advantages and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the TKC Tangerine switches differ, with the Matcha featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Tangerine has a UHWMPE top housing and a UHWMPE bottom housing. Both the polycarbonate and UHWMPE materials are known for their ability to produce clear and resonant sound profiles. The polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Matcha create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more precise typing experience. On the other hand, the UHWMPE top and bottom housings of the Tangerine offer a very bright sound signature, resulting in resonant clacks when typing on these switches.
While the housing materials of the Matcha and Tangerine switches may differ, they both excel in delivering satisfying sound profiles. The polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Matcha contribute to its sharper and crisper sound, providing users with a distinct auditory feedback when typing. Similarly, the UHWMPE top and bottom housings of the Tangerine produce a resonant sound signature, offering users a satisfying clack when typing. Therefore, if you prioritize sound quality, both the Matcha and Tangerine switches are likely to provide similar results.
The impact of the housing materials on the sound and feel of the switches can be observed through the division between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing material has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, whereas the top housing material has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, with the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha and the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine, users can expect a distinct bottom-out feel and sound experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the Matcha and UHWMPE top housing of the Tangerine will contribute to the sound produced when the key is released, offering users a unique auditory feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Matcha switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it relatively light in terms of force required for typing. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch's actuation force is unknown, but its bottom out force is measured at 62 grams, which falls into the medium range.
In terms of weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches, like the Matcha, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This makes it ideal for use in professional settings or during extended gaming sessions. Conversely, others may prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, and for them, switches with heavier forces, such as the Tangerine, would be more suitable.
It is important to note that although the actuation forces and bottom out forces differ between these two switches, individuals seeking similar results can adjust their typing experience. For instance, if one desires a lighter feel similar to the Matcha, they can type without bottoming out vigorously on the Tangerine switch, which would result in less force required. Conversely, if someone prefers a heavier feel like the Tangerine, they can deliberately bottom out on the Matcha to achieve a similar effect.
In summary, the KTT Matcha tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TKC Tangerine linear switch. However, individuals can still tailor their typing experience to their preference by adjusting their typing style.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key that is equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same travel distance of 4mm. Consequently, both switches provide a similar tactile and auditory feedback to the user. As a result, whether you choose the Matcha or the Tangerine, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Matcha is known for producing a distinctly clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. This results in a crisp, bright, and percussive clacky sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch is described as having a fairly high-pitched clack when typing on them. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, the Tangerine may not be the best choice for you.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Matcha switch has a few notable characteristics. It is described as being stepped, meaning it has two stages of tactility. This gives it a more mild feel compared to hypertactile switches, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, it is known to be snappy, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs that make typing feel more alive. The Matcha switch can be considered an accented switch, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. Some users may also find it feathery, with an exceptionally light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for long typing sessions.
On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch offers a different type of feel. It is described as frictionless, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. This is achieved through its UHWMPE housings, which is a rarity in the world of mechanical switches. The Tangerine switch can also be considered buttery, providing a seamless, uniform, and fluid keystroke experience. The switch itself has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha switch and the TKC Tangerine switch offer different subjective qualities. The Matcha switch provides a comfortable, snappy tactility and a clean bottom-out sound. It has a stepped feel, is snappy and accented, and can be considered feathery and subtle. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch offers an incredibly smooth feel, with a high-pitched clack sound. It is frictionless, buttery, and has a polished finish. While both switches excel in their respective qualities, they provide distinct typing experiences. If you prefer a tactile switch with a clean sound and a certain level of tactility, the Matcha would be a great choice. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, the Tangerine switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light bottom-out force and a comfortable, snappy tactility, the KTT Matcha switch would be a great choice for you. The Matcha switch offers a distinctively clean bottom-out sound and has descriptors such as "stepped," "snappy," "accented," "feathery," and "subtle" in terms of feel. These descriptors indicate that the Matcha switch provides a medium amount of tactility without being overpowering and offers a light and comfortable typing experience. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly higher bottom-out force and an incredibly smooth typing experience, the TKC Tangerine switch would be the better option. The Tangerine switch is known for its smooth feel and high-pitched clack sound when typing. Descriptors such as "frictionless," "buttery," and "polished" are used to describe the Tangerine switch, highlighting its smooth and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the Matcha and Tangerine switches depends on your preference for tactile or linear switches and the specific feel and sound you are looking for in your keyboard.
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