Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Brown, a tactile switch, and the TKC Tangerine, a linear switch, offer distinct typing experiences. The Dustproof Brown is best known for its durable design, while the Tangerine stands out for its incredibly smooth feel and high-pitched clack. The Dustproof Brown is categorized as a tactile switch, providing a noticeable bump when pressed, while the Tangerine is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke. If you are looking for a switch that provides tactile feedback and durability, the Dustproof Brown may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, the Tangerine might be more your speed. 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
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the TKC Tangerine switches, we see a significant difference in their top housings. The Dustproof Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for its top housing, resulting in a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Dustproof Brown leans towards a higher-pitched tone compared to the Tangerine's UHWMPE, which provides a more vibrant sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Dustproof Brown incorporates a nylon material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. In contrast, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for its bottom housing, delivering a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Although both housings offer unique sound characteristics, the Dustproof Brown's nylon material leans towards a deeper sound profile, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE provides a brighter and more resonant typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the TKC Tangerine switches offer distinct sound profiles based on the top and bottom housings used. While the Dustproof Brown employs polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, creating a sharper and deeper sound profile respectively, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for both top and bottom housings, resulting in a bright and resonant sound experience throughout. Despite the differences in materials, both switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience with their unique sound signatures.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the TKC Tangerine linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Dustproof Brown has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Tangerine has a bottom out force of 62 grams. The Dustproof Brown is slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit of resistance. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch offers a lighter bottom out force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer typing sessions. Both switches have their own advantages based on personal preference, with the Dustproof Brown being the heavier option and the Tangerine being the lighter option. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile 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 pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This standard travel distance ensures a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is being used. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying key press with their identical travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch does not have any specific descriptors or qualities mentioned, so it may have a more neutral or subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp noise when typing. This can be a matter of personal preference, as some may enjoy the brighter sound of high-pitched switches while others may prefer a quieter typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dustproof Brown offers no specific details on its tactile feel. Meanwhile, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is known for its frictionless and buttery feel. These qualities indicate that typing on the Tangerine switches will be incredibly smooth and effortless, with minimal resistance or friction during keystrokes. The polished finish of the Tangerine switch also contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience, further enhancing the overall feel of the switch.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a potentially neutral sound profile, the Outemu Dustproof Brown may be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a high-pitched sound and a smooth, frictionless feel, the TKC Tangerine switch would be a great option to consider. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch or the TKC Tangerine linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a tactile switch with medium-heavy bottom out force and are not overly concerned about sound or smoothness, the Dustproof Brown may be the right choice for you. However, if you prioritize a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a medium bottom out force and enjoy a high-pitched sound profile, the TKC Tangerine linear switch would be a great option for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you value most.
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