Outemu Phoenix vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch, and the TKC Tangerine, a linear switch. The Phoenix stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, offering a distinct feel and sound profile that is often described as crystalline and sparkling. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch boasts an incredibly smooth feel, enhancing the typing experience with each keystroke. This can be attributed to the UHWMPE housings, which are rare in the realm of bespoke mechanical switches. While both switches offer their own appeal, diving deeper into their characteristics will allow you to make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Phoenix and the TKC Tangerine switches differ in composition and sound profile. The Phoenix utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound profile, making it especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Tangerine features UHWMPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene) for both its top and bottom housing. This newer material provides a very bright sound signature and produces resonant clacks when typing.
If we focus on the top housing of the switches, both the polycarbonate used in the Phoenix and the UHWMPE used in the Tangerine have distinct sound characteristics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Phoenix offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, emphasizing the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the UHWMPE top housing of the Tangerine gives a very bright sound, resulting in resonant clacks when typing. Despite their differences, both materials contribute to an enhanced typing experience, allowing users to appreciate the unique auditory feedback provided by each switch.
Looking at the bottom housing of the switches, we find that the polycarbonate used in the Phoenix and the UHWMPE used in the Tangerine contribute differently to the sound and feel when pressing down on a key. The polycarbonate bottom housing in the Phoenix adds to the sharper and crisper sound profile, significantly influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the UHWMPE bottom housing in the Tangerine enhances the overall sound signature, adding a resonant quality to the clacks produced when typing. While both materials affect the typing experience, their specific contributions differ, providing users with distinct tactile feedback when using each switch.
In summary, the housing materials of the Outemu Phoenix and the TKC Tangerine switches offer different sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Phoenix's polycarbonate housing, both top and bottom, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing provides a very bright sound with resonant clacks. Although their material compositions differ, both switches offer enhanced typing experiences, with the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key and the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches deliver unique auditory feedback, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is worth noting that the information provided does not specify the exact force required for actuation. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium.
Considering weight, some users prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This is particularly beneficial for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are users who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals may opt for switches with heavier forces.
While the actuation forces of both the Phoenix and Tangerine switches are not provided, assuming they are the same or similar, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of actuation speed. However, the bottom out force of 62 grams remains constant for both switches, indicating a medium level of resistance when pressing the keys all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to individual preferences for lighter or heavier actuation forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, which is shorter than the 4mm travel distance of the TKC Tangerine linear switch. The Phoenix switch falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is favored by gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses, making it ideal for gaming purposes. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch offers a longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Phoenix offering a shorter and faster response while the Tangerine provides a longer and potentially more tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15, 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 Phoenix clicky switch offers a unique experience. Described as "crunchy," these switches produce a sound that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a high-pitched clack when typing on them. This produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making it a great option for those who prefer a higher-pitched sound profile. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Phoenix switch is described as "polished." This indicates that these switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This is achieved through the use of high-quality materials and potentially factory lubing, which reduces friction and provides smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch offers a frictionless and buttery typing experience. These switches are designed to minimize any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys, resulting in a fluid and effortless travel. Both switches offer a polished feel, ensuring a pleasant and comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Phoenix offers a unique and crunchy sound, while the Tangerine provides a high-pitched clack. In terms of feel, the Phoenix offers a polished typing experience with reduced friction, while the Tangerine provides a smooth and effortless key travel. It's important to remember that personal preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch, and the sound and feel can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps. Ultimately, both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences, and you can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a clicky switch with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Phoenix would be the perfect choice for you. With its unique under-skirt click mechanism, the Phoenix offers a crystalline and sparkling typing experience. The switch is described as having a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. In terms of feel, the Phoenix is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with the same medium bottom out force, the TKC Tangerine is an excellent option. The Tangerine switch is known for its incredibly smooth feel, thanks to the UHWMPE housings which are a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. The Tangerine produces a high-pitched clack sound when typing. In terms of feel, the Tangerine offers a frictionless and buttery typing experience, with a polished finish that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch will depend on your preference for the type of switch mechanism (clicky or linear) and the sound profile (crunchy or high-pitched) you prefer. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but with different tactile and auditory characteristics. So, consider what matters most to you in terms of typing experience and choose accordingly. Regardless of your choice, you can't go wrong with either of these high-quality mechanical keyboard switches.
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