Outemu Dustproof Black vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Black and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, we see two linear switches with distinct characteristics. The Dustproof Black is best known for its durability and resistance to dust, making it a reliable option for those looking for a long-lasting switch. On the other hand, the Tangerine stands out for its incredibly smooth feel and unique UHWMPE housings, providing a luxurious typing experience with a high-pitched clack sound. While the Dustproof Black offers longevity and reliability, the Tangerine excels in providing a premium typing experience. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Black and the TKC Tangerine, one noticeable difference is in their top housings. The Dustproof Black uses polycarbonate, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound. On the other hand, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for its top housing, offering a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. While both materials aim to enhance sound quality, their specific properties result in distinct audio experiences for the user.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Dustproof Black features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for its bottom housing, also offering a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. Despite both being newer materials for switch housings, nylon and UHWMPE bring different sonic characteristics to the switches, providing users with varied typing experiences.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials on the switches, it's important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are distributed differently in each switch design. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released. With this in mind, users can expect a combination of the unique qualities of the top and bottom housing materials in both the Outemu Dustproof Black and the TKC Tangerine switches, resulting in a dynamic and nuanced typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch differ significantly. The Outemu Dustproof Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine has a lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a more medium option for those who prefer a slightly lighter typing experience. The actuation force of the Tangerine is unknown, but given its lighter bottom out force, it can be inferred that it may have a lighter actuation force as well, providing a more effortless typing experience compared to the Dustproof Black. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and whether one prefers a heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of keypress depth. As a result, the overall typing feel and actuation point of both switches are likely to be quite similar, offering a familiar sensation for those who have used either switch before.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black 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 Dustproof Black switch is known for being relatively quiet, with a subtle and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch is characterized by a high-pitched clack when typing, producing a sharp and crisp sound. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Dustproof Black may be more suitable for you, while those who enjoy a more distinctive and audible typing sound may prefer the Tangerine.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch does not have specific descriptors available, so it is likely to offer a standard linear typing experience. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine switch is known for being frictionless, buttery, and polished. This means that the Tangerine switch provides an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The switch also offers a seamless, uniform, and refined typing sensation, making each keystroke feel polished and polished.
Overall, if you are looking for a quiet and standard linear switch, the Outemu Dustproof Black may be a suitable option for you. However, if you want a tactile and high-pitched typing experience with a smooth and polished feel, the TKC Tangerine switch would be a better choice. Both switches have their own unique qualities, so the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Ultimately, while different in some aspects, both switches are likely to provide a satisfactory typing experience based on the available information.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a heavy linear switch with a bottom out force of 80 grams, the Outemu Dustproof Black would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the TKC Tangerine linear switch would be the better option for you. The Tangerines are known for their incredibly smooth feel and high-pitched sound, making each keystroke a pleasure. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and sound profile. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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