Outemu Lotus vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Lotus and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Lotus is best known for its smoothness, offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine stands out for its incredibly smooth feel and high-pitched clack with each keystroke, thanks to the UHWMPE housings. The Lotus provides a tactile bump, while the Tangerine is known for being frictionless, buttery, high-pitched, and polished. Overall, both switches have their strengths and appeal to different types of users. 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
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 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
The Outemu Lotus and the TKC Tangerine both have unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. The Lotus utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Tangerine features a UHWMPE top and bottom housing, offering a brighter sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. This difference in housing materials gives each switch a distinct sound and feel.
Despite their differences, both the Lotus and Tangerine switches share the characteristic of having a unique and premium feel due to their special housing materials. The nylon housing of the Lotus provides a duller and rounder sound, while the UHWMPE housing of the Tangerine offers a more vibrant and resonant typing experience. However, users can expect a similar level of satisfaction and quality from both switches, as they are designed to enhance the overall typing experience with their respective housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Lotus and the TKC Tangerine will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. The Lotus's nylon housing creates a softer and deeper sound, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing produces a brighter and more resonant typing experience. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a bright and resonant clack, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that is sure to impress keyboard enthusiasts looking for a premium switch option.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is clear that the Lotus is the lighter option. The Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine is the heavier option, with a bottom out force of 62 grams, although the actuation force is not specified. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for determining the amount of force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force required to press the key all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the Lotus and the Tangerine will depend on personal preference, with some users favoring the lightness of the Lotus for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Tangerine for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, shorter than the TKC Tangerine linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lotus offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a favorite among gamers looking for speed. On the other hand, the Tangerine provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter, quicker press or a longer, more deliberate press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Lotus 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 Lotus linear switch does not have a specific reputation or characteristic, which means it can be difficult to predict how it will sound. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is known for producing a high-pitched clack when typing on them. This sound profile can be sharp and crisp, providing a different auditory experience compared to switches with rich and bassy sound profiles. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have a specific description available. Conversely, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is known for its frictionless, buttery, and polished feel. The use of UHWMPE housings contributes to an incredibly smooth typing experience, with minimized resistance and friction when pressing the keys. This results in a fluid and uniform typing sensation, making each keystroke a pleasure to type.
In conclusion, the Outemu Lotus and TKC Tangerine linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lotus switch may provide variability in sound and feel due to the lack of specific descriptors, the Tangerine switch is known for its high-pitched sound and frictionless, buttery, and polished feel. Depending on the individual's preference for sound and typing experience, they may find one switch more favorable than the other. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience, allowing newcomers to explore different options based on their preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Lotus with 50 grams bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier touch, the Tangerine with 62 grams bottom out force could be more suitable. Additionally, if you value a high-pitched sound profile and a frictionless, buttery, or polished feel, the Tangerine may be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and priorities for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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