Cherry MX Silent Red vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The MX Silent Red offers a quieter typing experience compared to its predecessor, the MX Red, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch boasts an incredibly smooth feel thanks to its unique UHWMPE housings, providing a luxurious typing experience. While the MX Silent Red is categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Tangerine switch is labeled as 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own set of advantages, but ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences. 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
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Silent Red and the TKC Tangerine switches both boast unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The MX Silent Red features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its soft plastic composition that absorbs more noise. In contrast, the Tangerine switch utilizes UHWMPE material for both its top and bottom housing, offering a bright sound signature with resonant clacks during typing. While both switches prioritize sound quality, the MX Silent Red leans towards a smoother and duller sound, while the Tangerine delivers a sharper and more vibrant typing experience.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the MX Silent Red and the TKC Tangerine ultimately impact the overall typing experience in unique ways. The nylon bottom housing of the MX Silent Red enhances the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch and a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine brings a lively and resonant quality to each keystroke, creating a more pronounced sound when keys are pressed. These contrasting characteristics demonstrate how subtle variations in housing materials can greatly influence the tactile and auditory feedback of mechanical switches.
While the Cherry MX Silent Red and the TKC Tangerine differ in their housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts. The nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red and the UHWMPE top housing of the Tangerine may offer distinct sound profiles, but users can expect similar results in terms of smooth keystrokes and overall typing comfort. Ultimately, whether you prefer the muffled thuds of the MX Silent Red or the sharp clacks of the Tangerine, both switches showcase how housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the auditory feedback and feel of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences for users. The Cherry MX Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes quickly. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Silent Red is not specified. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. While the actuation force for the TKC Tangerine is not listed, it can be assumed that it may be similar to the Cherry MX Silent Red or slightly heavier based on the bottom out force comparison. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance category compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may appreciate the slightly shorter travel distance of the MX Silent Red for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience may lean towards the Tangerine with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of how much key travel you prefer when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red switch is known for its muted and thocky sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches while still delivering a satisfying deep thud when pressed. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch offers a high-pitched sound that may not be as appealing to those who prefer a richer, bassier sound profile. When it comes to feel, the MX Silent Red switch is noted for its textured feel, which may provide a tactile feedback that some users find appealing. In contrast, the Tangerine switch offers a frictionless, buttery, and polished typing experience, ensuring a smooth and effortless key press with minimal resistance or friction.
Overall, the Cherry MX Silent Red and TKC Tangerine switches present different characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the MX Silent Red switch excels in providing a quieter typing experience with a slightly textured feel, the Tangerine switch stands out for its smoothness and fluidity, accompanied by a high-pitched sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the MX Silent Red for a quieter but slightly textured experience or the TKC Tangerine for a smoother and high-pitched typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can deliver similar results in terms of keystroke accuracy and responsiveness.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the TKC Tangerine linear switches, consider your environment and preference for sound. If you are in a noise-sensitive space or simply prefer a quieter typing experience, the MX Silent Red's muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile may be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a high-pitched typing sound and value the incredibly smooth and frictionless feel of the Tangerine switch, it may be the perfect choice for enhancing your typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
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