Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver to the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer unique qualities to enhance typing or gaming experiences. The MX Speed Silver is ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed and responsiveness, thanks to its linear action and low spring resistance that triggers instantly. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine provides a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, featuring UHWMPE housings for a unique feel. While the MX Speed Silver is 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched', the Tangerine is 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and specific needs. 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver and TKC Tangerine both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall typing experience. The MX Speed Silver uses a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE top housing, offering a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. While both materials have their own sound characteristics, they cater to different preferences in sound feedback.
In terms of bottom housing, both the MX Speed Silver and TKC Tangerine continue to showcase the differences in housing materials. The MX Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing, due to its softer plastic composition. Contrastingly, the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to a brighter sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. These differences in bottom housing materials offer users a range of sound profiles to choose from based on their preferences.
When considering the overall typing experience, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and TKC Tangerine ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound feedback. While the MX Speed Silver offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon housing materials, the Tangerine provides a brighter and more resonant sound experience with its UHWMPE housing. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect typing experience based on their sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics. The MX Speed Silver has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, which is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Tangerine has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. While the actuation force of the Tangerine is unknown, the heavier bottom out force indicates that it may require more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the MX Speed Silver. Overall, individuals looking for a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may prefer the MX Speed Silver, while those seeking a heavier and more tactile typing experience may lean towards the TKC Tangerine.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the MX Speed Silver has the shorter travel distance compared to the Tangerine. The shorter travel distance of the MX Speed Silver can provide a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch with its longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press feeling. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience one seeks.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch is characterized by a high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and crisp tone. When it comes to feel, the MX Speed Silver is described as having a textured feel, providing some noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the Tangerine switch offers a frictionless and buttery typing experience, with a polished finish for a smooth and refined keystroke.
Overall, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed and instantaneous response, while the TKC Tangerine switch enhances the typing experience with its smooth and fluid keystrokes. The sound and feel qualities of each switch cater to different preferences, with the MX Speed Silver offering a deep and low-pitched sound with a textured feel, and the Tangerine providing a high-pitched sound and a frictionless, buttery feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific keyboard setup to achieve the desired sound and feel characteristics. Should you desire a similar typing experience, opting for switches with comparable sound and feel qualities will help you achieve comparable results.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the MX Speed Silver if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, making it ideal for competitive gaming where quick reactions are crucial. On the other hand, choose the Tangerine switch if you desire a smoother and more luxurious typing experience, perfect for everyday typing tasks or enthusiasts seeking a refined feel. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your specific preferences for speed, sound, and feel to ensure the best keyboard switch for your needs.
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