Outemu Silver vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Silver and the TKC Tangerine. The Outemu Silver is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth keystrokes and reliable performance. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine is also a linear switch that boasts an incredibly smooth feel and a high-pitched clack when typing. While the Silver offers a reliable typing experience, the Tangerine provides a unique and satisfying feel with its UHWMPE housings. Both switches are categorized as linear, but the Tangerine offers a bit more flair with its high-pitched sound. 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
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Silver and the TKC Tangerine switches, we see a contrast in the top housing material used. The Silver utilizes polycarbonate, known for its stiffer nature that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Tangerine opts for UHWMPE, a newer material that produces a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. While the Silver's polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing offers a unique and bright sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, we find a similar contrast between the Silver's nylon bottom housing and the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing. Nylon, a classic switch housing material, is preferred for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing continues the trend of bright sound signatures, offering resonant clacks when typing. Both materials contribute to the overall sound profile and typing experience of the switches, with nylon providing a duller and rounder sound while UHWMPE offers a brighter and more resonant sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Silver and the TKC Tangerine, both switches showcase the impact that top and bottom housing materials can have on the sound profile and typing experience. While the Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound when letting go of a key, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing offers a bright and resonant sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Silver provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine that continues the trend of bright and resonant clacks. Overall, these differences in housing materials contribute to the unique sound signatures and typing experiences offered by each switch.
Weight
The Outemu Silver linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the TKC Tangerine switch, which has a force of None grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silver requires 65 grams while the Tangerine requires 62 grams, making them relatively similar in this aspect. Having a lighter actuation force can be more comfortable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods, while a heavier bottom out force can provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Silver and TKC Tangerine switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silver and the TKC Tangerine linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This consistency in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get comparable typing experiences in terms of the key press depth. So, whether you choose the Outemu Silver or the TKC Tangerine switch, you can expect to have a similar tactile feel when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silver 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 Silver linear switch is known for its relatively quiet operation, with a lack of distinct characteristics. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is recognized for its high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp noise with each keystroke. Sound preferences are subjective, so if you prefer a more muted typing experience, the Silver may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a more pronounced sound may gravitate towards the Tangerine.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silver switch does not have any specific descriptors provided, suggesting a more standard tactile experience. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine switch offers a frictionless and buttery typing feel, with a highly smooth and effortless key press thanks to the UHWMPE housings. Additionally, the polished finish of the Tangerine switch contributes to a refined and sleek typing experience. If you appreciate a more fluid and refined typing sensation, the Tangerine switch may be the preferred option over the Silver.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch that provides a quieter typing experience with no specific tactile characteristics, the Outemu Silver may be suitable for you. On the other hand, if you desire a switch that offers a high-pitched sound profile and a frictionless, buttery feel for a more enhanced typing experience, the TKC Tangerine could be the ideal choice. Remember that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right switch for your needs, so consider trying out both options to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it comes down to personal preference and typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch with no specific standout feature, the Outemu Silver may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking a smooth and high-performing switch with a unique high-pitched sound profile, the TKC Tangerine is the way to go. Its frictionless and buttery feel, combined with the polished housing material, will elevate your typing experience to a whole new level. Consider your typing preferences and desired sound profile when making your decision.
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