Outemu Blue Jade vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue Jade and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Blue Jade, a clicky switch, and the TKC Tangerine, a linear switch. The Blue Jade is known for its tactile feedback and distinct click sound, offering a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine stands out for its smooth keystrokes and unique UHWMPE housings, providing a luxurious feel while typing. Each switch has its own characteristics and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Nylon
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue Jade and the TKC Tangerine, one key difference is in the top housing material. The Blue Jade features a nylon top housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE top housing, offering a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. This variation in top housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Blue Jade and the Tangerine use different materials as well. The Blue Jade sticks with the classic nylon bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Tangerine employs UHWMPE bottom housing, known for its bright sound signature and resonant clacks. Despite both switches having different bottom housing materials, they both aim to enhance the typing experience with unique sound characteristics.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches like the Outemu Blue Jade and TKC Tangerine plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing feel. While the Blue Jade leans towards a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon housing, the Tangerine offers a brighter and more resonant typing experience with its UHWMPE housing. These differences in material composition result in distinct sound signatures, allowing users to choose switches based on their preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Jade requires a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Tangerine's unknown actuation force. However, the Tangerine has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams as opposed to the Blue Jade's 65 grams. In terms of weight, the Blue Jade is slightly lighter than the Tangerine, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods. On the other hand, the Tangerine offers a more substantial typing feedback with its heavier bottom out force, catering to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, both switches provide unique tactile experiences, with the Blue Jade offering a medium-heavy feel compared to the Tangerine's medium weight.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them the same in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is evident that they offer a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel. This means that whether you choose the Blue Jade clicky switch or the Tangerine linear switch, you can expect a similar amount of key travel when pressing down on the keys. This makes them both equally suitable choices for those looking for a specific travel distance in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10, whereas the TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is known for providing a satisfying and clicky typing experience, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch offers a high-pitched sound that can be sharp and crisp. Both switches offer different auditory feedback, catering to users with diverse sound preferences. The Blue Jade clicky switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a distinct click with each keystroke, while the Tangerine linear switch is ideal for individuals who prefer a higher-pitched sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is described as frictionless, buttery, and polished, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. The use of UHWMPE housings in the Tangerine switch contributes to its smooth feel and fluid key travel, providing a luxurious typing sensation. While the feel of the Blue Jade switch is not specified, it is important to consider that different switches can offer varying levels of tactile feedback and key response.
Overall, individuals looking for a tactile and clicky typing experience may prefer the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, while those seeking a smooth and buttery keystroke experience may favor the TKC Tangerine linear switch. It is important to consider personal preferences, typing style, and intended use when choosing between these switches. Additionally, both switches can be influenced by other factors such as keyboard layout, keycap material, and typing technique, so experimentation may be necessary to find the perfect switch for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are not particularly focused on sound or feel, then the Blue Jade may be the right choice for you. However, if you prioritize a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a medium bottom out force, along with a high-pitched sound profile, then the TKC Tangerine linear switch is the way to go. Consider your typing preferences and prioritize what matters most to you when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what will enhance your typing experience the most.
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