Outemu Crystal Brown vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, and the TKC Tangerine, a linear switch, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Crystal Brown is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Tangerine stands out for its incredibly smooth feel, thanks to the UHWMPE housings. While the Crystal Brown offers a tactile typing experience, the Tangerine's linear design ensures a frictionless and buttery keystroke. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the TKC Tangerine switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing delivers a bright and resonant clack when typing. In contrast, the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, whereas the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing complements the top housing with its bright sound signature.
While both switches feature different housing materials for the top and bottom, they each offer unique benefits that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal Brown creates a clear and resonant sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts. In comparison, the UHWMPE top housing of the Tangerine produces a bright sound signature that enhances the typing experience with resonant clacks. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Crystal Brown absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder sound, while the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine complements the top housing with its bright characteristics.
In summary, the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the TKC Tangerine switches play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and typing feel of each switch. While the Crystal Brown features a combination of polycarbonate and nylon for its top and bottom housings respectively, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for both the top and bottom. These differences in housing materials result in distinct sound signatures, from sharp and clear on the Crystal Brown to bright and resonant on the Tangerine. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch differ in weight, with the Crystal Brown being the lighter of the two. The Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it a medium-light option, while the Tangerine's actuation force is unknown, suggesting it may be lighter or around the same weight. The bottom out force of the Crystal Brown is 55 grams, slightly heavier than the Tangerine's bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Crystal Brown for extended typing sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Tangerine with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and feel of each switch, catering to different preferences and needs.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. The tactile feedback of the Crystal Brown and the smooth linear action of the Tangerine switches will provide similar results in terms of typing experience. Consequently, users looking for a switch with a 4mm travel distance can choose between the Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Tangerine linear switch based on their preference for tactile feedback or linear smoothness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided, making it difficult to compare directly with the high-pitched sound profile of the TKC Tangerine linear switch. However, both switches may produce a satisfying sound depending on the keyboard and keycaps used. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Tangerine switch may be more appealing.
When it comes to feel, the Crystal Brown switch lacks a specific descriptor, while the Tangerine switch is described as frictionless, buttery, and polished. The smooth and effortless typing experience provided by the Tangerine switch is attributed to its unique UHWMPE housings, offering a sense of fluidity and uniformity in key presses. Without further information on the Crystal Brown switch, it is challenging to directly compare the tactile feedback and overall typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel, the lack of specific details on the Crystal Brown switch makes it challenging to provide a comprehensive comparison. However, based on the provided information, it is clear that the Tangerine switch stands out for its high-pitched sound profile and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the Outemu Crystal Brown is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience, the TKC Tangerine would be the better option for you. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience based on your personal preferences.
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