Outemu Spring Breeze vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Outemu Spring Breeze, a clicky switch, and the TKC Tangerine, a linear switch. The Spring Breeze is best known for its unique clicky feedback, providing a satisfying tactile response with each key press. On the other hand, the Tangerine stands out for its ultra-smooth typing experience, thanks to the UHWMPE housings and buttery feel. While the Spring Breeze offers a more traditional typing experience with its high-pitched sound and tactile feedback, the Tangerine provides a quieter and smoother 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.50 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
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 housing materials of the Outemu Spring Breeze and the TKC Tangerine switches differ significantly. The Spring Breeze features nylon top and bottom housings, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine switches utilize UHWMPE top and bottom housings, a newer material that offers a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. The contrast between the two housing materials translates into distinct typing experiences for users.
While the housing materials of the Spring Breeze and Tangerine switches offer unique sound profiles, they both contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience. The nylon top and bottom housings of the Spring Breeze create a deeper sound profile that is considered more mellow and soothing to the ears. In comparison, the UHWMPE top and bottom housings of the Tangerine switches deliver a bright and resonant sound that adds a lively element to typing. Despite their differences, both housing materials aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience tailored to their preferences.
In terms of functionality, the differences in the housing materials of the Spring Breeze and Tangerine switches impact the overall sound and feel of typing. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings of a switch determine the tactile feedback when pressing down and releasing keys. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the typing experience allows users to choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, we can see that the Spring Breeze is lighter in both aspects. The actuation force of the Spring Breeze is 40 grams, while the Tangerine's actuation force is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Spring Breeze is 55 grams, which is lighter than the Tangerine's bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Spring Breeze will provide a lighter typing experience compared to the Tangerine. Some may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Spring Breeze for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Tangerine for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance from top to bottom. Both switches offer a similar feel in terms of the distance traveled, resulting in a familiar typing experience for users. The comparable travel distance of these switches allows for accurate and comfortable typing, making them suitable options for individuals who prefer a consistent key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Spring Breeze 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 Spring Breeze clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer different experiences. The Spring Breeze is known for generating a unique sound that is not explicitly described in the provided information, while the Tangerine is recognized for producing a high-pitched clack when typing on them. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Tangerine may be more to your liking.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Spring Breeze does not have a specific descriptor, whereas the Tangerine is praised for its frictionless, buttery, and polished feel. With the UHWMPE housings contributing to an incredibly smooth typing experience, the Tangerine switch offers minimal resistance and a fluid key travel. This makes typing a pleasure, as each keystroke is effortless and uniform.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a unique sound profile, the Outemu Spring Breeze may be worth exploring. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch that provides a smooth and polished typing experience, the TKC Tangerine switch stands out for its exceptional feel. Keep in mind that sound and feel preferences are subjective, so it's essential to try out different switches to find the one that best suits your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience in different ways.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile and clicky typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Outemu Spring Breeze switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and effortless linear switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, the TKC Tangerine switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what aspects are most important to you in a keyboard switch before making a decision.
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