KTT Miaowu vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Miaowu and the TKC Tangerine both offer unique features and qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Miaowu is praised for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to the utilization of POK in its stem, distinguishing it from switches with traditional POM stems. Classified as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', this linear switch provides a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine boasts an exceptionally smooth feel that elevates the typing experience to new heights, courtesy of its UHWMPE housings, rarely found in custom mechanical switches. With descriptors such as 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Tangerine offers a unique typing sensation. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Miaowu and TKC Tangerine switches offer contrasting housing materials in both the top and bottom components. The Miaowu utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Tangerine features a UHWMPE top housing with a very bright sound signature, resulting in resonant clacks when typing. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing in common, which is well-known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This common bottom housing material allows for similar typing experiences between the two switches in terms of sound quality.
In terms of sound profile, the Miaowu's polycarbonate top housing produces a more resonant and clear sound, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing offers a brighter sound signature with impactful clacks. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Miaowu creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, in contrast to the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine, which also provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. The differences in the housing materials of these switches contribute to their unique sound profiles, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound characteristics.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the KTT Miaowu and TKC Tangerine switches offer distinct sound profiles, the impact of each housing material is felt in different aspects of typing. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials between the top and bottom components of the switches provides a balanced typing experience, with the qualities of each material complementing each other to create a satisfying sound profile overall.
Weight
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the TKC Tangerine linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Tangerine has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Miaowu has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Miaowu switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Tangerine switch, which is medium in terms of bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Miaowu switch, while users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Tangerine switch for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Miaowu linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Tangerine switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Miaowu switch. A 0.5 mm may seem like a small difference, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. The Miaowu switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a faster response time, such as gamers, while the Tangerine switch's longer travel distance may suit those who prefer a more tactile and distinct key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 Miaowu linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is characterized by a high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and crisp noise with each keystroke. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Miaowu offering a brighter and more percussive sound while the Tangerine provides a sharper tone. It is important to note that sound perception can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that adds a lively feel to typing. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine linear switch offers a frictionless typing experience, characterized by an extremely smooth and effortless keystroke that minimizes any resistance or friction. Additionally, the Tangerine switch is also described as buttery and polished, indicating a seamless and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer unique tactile responses, with the Miaowu providing a more energetic feel while the Tangerine offers a smoother and more fluid typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Miaowu switch stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, providing a lively and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch excels in its high-pitched sound profile and frictionless, buttery feel, offering a smooth and refined typing sensation. Depending on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, both switches have their own strengths and can cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the Miaowu and Tangerine switches will depend on the individual's desired typing experience and auditory preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. You may prefer the Miaowu if you enjoy a light bottom out force and a bouncy, lively feel when typing. The Miaowu is also known for its clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Tangerine may be the better choice for you if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a frictionless, buttery, or polished typing experience. The Tangerine is also recognized for its high-pitched sound. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound, and force required for key presses. Choose the switch that will enhance your typing experience and make it more enjoyable for you.
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