Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The V3 Piano Pro is known for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine stands out for its incredibly smooth feel and use of UHWMPE housings, offering a pleasurable typing experience with a high-pitched clack. While the V3 Piano Pro is described as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', 'Silky' and the Tangerine as 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Piano Pro and TKC Tangerine both feature unique housing materials for their switches. While the V3 Piano Pro utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, the Tangerine switches use UHWMPE for both components. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, UHWMPE is a newer material that offers a very bright sound signature, providing resonant clacks when typing on switches with such housings.
One key difference between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. The V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing creates a bright and resonant sound. This contrast in sound signature can greatly impact the typing experience for users, as the material of the top housing directly affects the sound when a key is released. Additionally, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon bottom housing also plays a role in enhancing the overall sound profile of the switch, providing a similar deep and full sound as the top housing.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Akko V3 Piano Pro and TKC Tangerine switches, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the V3 Piano Pro's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing produces a bright and resonant sound signature. However, by utilizing different materials for the top and bottom housing, the qualities of each material are split between the two components, providing a well-rounded typing experience that combines the impact of the bottom housing with the sound produced by the top housing.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The V3 Piano Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Tangerine, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Tangerine has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the V3 Piano Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the Tangerine slightly heavier overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the V3 Piano Pro may be the better choice. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the TKC Tangerine switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have different travel distances, with the V3 Piano Pro having a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Tangerine's 4 mm. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the V3 Piano Pro offers a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers or those who prefer a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the TKC Tangerine provides a deeper press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
The TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 per 10 switches.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is characterized by a clacky and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and lively auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch produces a high-pitched sound, offering a crisp and sharp tone when typing. While the V3 Piano Pro focuses on a more percussive sound, the Tangerine delivers a cleaner and brighter sound quality. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference, taking into account factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, offering a range of tactile experiences from spring-like feedback to a smooth and buttery typing sensation. Conversely, the TKC Tangerine linear switch provides a frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, emphasizing a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches focus on delivering a seamless and uniform keystroke sensation, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.
Overall, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the V3 Piano Pro emphasizes a snappy sound signature and a variety of tactile sensations, the Tangerine focuses on a high-pitched sound profile and a smooth, frictionless feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between these switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction with either choice.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider the characteristics that stand out to you the most. If you prioritize a snappy sound signature and a smooth actuation experience, the V3 Piano Pro with its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value an incredibly smooth typing feel and a high-pitched sound profile, the TKC Tangerine with its medium bottom out force of 62 grams could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific qualities that align with your typing preferences and overall keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
