KTT Orange vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Orange and TKC Tangerine both offer unique features that make them stand out. The KTT Orange switch is known for its bouncy and frictionless typing experience, thanks to its 22mm long spring, polycarbonate milky top housing, and vibrant orange nylon bottom housing. Not only does it provide a slick feel, but it also has a low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch takes things to the next level with its incredibly smooth keystrokes, giving users a heightened sense of pleasure while typing. The UHWMPE housings used in the Tangerine switches are rare in the mechanical switch world and contribute to its frictionless and buttery feel. However, there is a noticeable high-pitched clack when typing on them. While these general pointers give a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, 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
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Orange and the TKC Tangerine differ in the materials used for their top and bottom housings. The Orange utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, while the Tangerine employs UHWMPE for both. The use of polycarbonate in the Orange's housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing offers a very bright sound signature, producing resonant clacks while typing. While they both provide distinct sound profiles, the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing is relatively newer compared to the polycarbonate housing of the Orange.
In terms of aesthetics, the Orange's polycarbonate housing is known for its translucency, making it particularly useful if you plan to use RGB lighting. However, the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing does not possess the same translucency. Therefore, if vibrant lighting effects are a priority, the Orange may be a more suitable choice. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in clear housings is common, making it easier to identify switches with this material. In contrast, the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing is considered a newer material for switch housings, giving it a more unique and potentially trendy appeal.
When it comes to the feel and sound of the switch, the qualities brought by the top and bottom housings are split between the Orange and Tangerine. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel experienced. As the Orange and Tangerine have different materials for their bottom housings, this can result in variations in the tactile feedback and overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the top housing material of the switch will have a more noticeable impact on the sound profile during key release for both the Orange and Tangerine switches.
In summary, the KTT Orange and TKC Tangerine differ in their housing materials, with the Orange using polycarbonate and the Tangerine featuring UHWMPE. This distinction leads to variations in the sound profiles and potentially the typing experience between the two switches. The Orange's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, particularly suitable for those interested in RGB lighting effects. Conversely, the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing provides a bright sound signature and has a newer and potentially more unique appeal. However, regardless of their differences, both top housings play a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, while the bottom housings contribute more to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Orange switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. This lighter weight makes it suitable for those who prefer a keyboard that allows them to type for extended periods or engage in marathon gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch has an actuation force that is unavailable and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Orange switch. This heavier force provides a stronger push feel, appealing to individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces may differ, both switches fall within the medium range of forces, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The KTT Orange linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have different travel distances. The Orange has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Tangerine has a travel distance of 4 mm. Since the Orange has a shorter travel distance, it may be preferred by gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, some people may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key, the Tangerine with its longer travel distance would be a suitable choice. Overall, the travel distance of these switches provides options for users who prioritize responsiveness or a more hearty feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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 KTT Orange switch is best known for its low-pitched profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when pressed. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch is described as high-pitched, resulting in a sharp and crisp sound during typing. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, both switches offer a frictionless typing experience. The Orange switch is known for its bouncy feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This means that the keys have a lively feel with a rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Orange switch also offers a fluid key travel, resulting in a smooth and effortless typing experience. Similarly, the Tangerine switch also offers a frictionless experience with a fluid travel. It is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Moreover, the Tangerine switch is considered polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness can be attributed to the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the KTT Orange switch and the TKC Tangerine switch have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Orange switch offers a low-pitched sound profile along with a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch provides a high-pitched sound and a buttery, polished, and frictionless feel. If you're looking for a more bass-heavy and mellow sound with a bouncy feel, the Orange switch is a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound along with a smooth and polished keystroke experience, the Tangerine switch would be ideal. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that if you want similar results between the two switches, you can expect a frictionless and fluid typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a bouncy and frictionless feel, as well as a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch is the one for you. Its 53-gram bottom out force provides a comfortable typing experience, while the polycarbonate milky top housing and long pole POM stem contribute to a slick and frictionless key travel. The factory-lubing ensures a refined and fluid typing experience, minimizing friction and maximizing smoothness. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a frictionless and buttery feel, along with a high-pitched clack sound, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is the better choice. The UHWMPE housings provide an incredibly smooth typing experience, and the switch offers a seamless and uniform sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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