Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the TKC Tangerine offer distinct experiences for users. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch, known for its durability and resistance to dust. On the other hand, the Tangerine is a linear switch celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and UHWMPE housings, providing a unique typing experience. While the Dustproof Purple offers a satisfying click with each press, the Tangerine boasts a buttery feel that elevates typing to a whole new level. 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
55g
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
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 Purple and the TKC Tangerine switches, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their top and bottom housing materials. The Dustproof Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, while the Tangerine features a UHWMPE top housing that offers bright and resonant clacks. Both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, with the polycarbonate emphasizing clarity and the UHWMPE offering a brighter sound signature.
The bottom housing materials of the two switches also play a significant role in the overall sound profile. The Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom housing creates a deep and full sound profile, absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to the bright sound signature of the switch, providing resonant clacks when typing. While both materials bring unique qualities to the switches, the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Purple and the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine offer contrasting sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch affects both the sound and feel of typing on the keyboard. The qualities of the bottom housing material will impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. While the Dustproof Purple and TKC Tangerine utilize different housing materials for their tops and bottoms, they both provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound with the Dustproof Purple or a bright and resonant sound with the Tangerine, both switches offer distinct characteristics based on their housing materials.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The Dustproof Purple has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Tangerine, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Tangerine has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Dustproof Purple has a bottom out force of 65 grams. Despite these variations, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Tangerine, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Dustproof Purple. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This provides consistency in typing or gaming experiences for users who prefer a shorter travel distance. Whether you choose the Dustproof Purple clicky switch or the Tangerine linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of tactile feedback and keypress feel due to their equal travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple 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 Dustproof Purple switch is relatively unknown, but based on the information provided, it seems that it may not have a specific sound profile that sets it apart. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is known for its high-pitched clack when typing, providing a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. If you prefer this type of sound over richer and bassier profiles, the Tangerine switch would be a great choice for you.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dustproof Purple's tactile experience is not specified. However, the TKC Tangerine switch is praised for its frictionless, buttery, and polished feel. The UHWMPE housings contribute to an incredibly smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The switch offers a fluid travel, resulting in a seamless, uniform, and refined typing sensation.
In conclusion, if you prioritize a high-pitched and sharp sound profile along with a frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, the TKC Tangerine linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more standard switch without specific tonal qualities or tactile descriptions, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch would provide a reliable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys a more tactile and clicky typing experience, you may want to consider the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the TKC Tangerine linear switch may be the better choice for you. The Tangerines are known for their incredibly smooth feel and high-pitched clack, making each keystroke a pleasure to type. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for tactile feedback and sound profile.
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