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Durock Piano vs. TKC Tangerine

An in-depth look at the Durock Piano 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 to consider are the Durock Piano and the TKC Tangerine, both of which are linear switches. The Durock Piano is best known for its proprietary material blend, resulting in a typing experience that is described as "bassy," "frictionless," and "silky." Typing on these switches is a delight, with a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine offers an incredibly smooth feel that takes your typing experience to the next level. Its use of UHWMPE housings, a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches, contributes to this smoothness. Although it does produce a fairly high-pitched clack, each keystroke is a pleasure to type. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

N/A

Actuation force

N/A

Bottom-out force

63.5g

Bottom-out force

62g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

N/A

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Factory lubed

No

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Standard

Stem construction

Standard

Stem material

Mystery material

Stem material

POM

Top housing material

Proprietary POM blend

Top housing material

UHWMPE

Bottom housing material

Proprietary POM blend

Bottom housing material

UHWMPE

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Gold-plated

Spring

Gold coated spring

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Piano and the TKC Tangerine, it is evident that they offer distinct sound profiles. The Piano features a proprietary POM blend top housing, which provides a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE top housing, a newer material that produces a very bright sound signature. While both materials affect the sound when a key is released, the Piano's POM blend offers a deeper tone, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE delivers resonant clacks that add a certain liveliness to the typing experience.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Piano once again incorporates its proprietary POM blend, which contributes to the switch's satisfying and deep sound profile. Similarly, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for its bottom housing. However, this material differs from the POM blend found in the Piano, offering a brighter sound signature. The bottom housing material is particularly impactful on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Thus, while both switches share similar traits in terms of their housing materials, the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing delivers a more vibrant and resonant typing experience compared to the Piano's POM blend.

Overall, while the housing materials of the Durock Piano and TKC Tangerine share similarities in terms of impacting the sound profile of the switch, they also possess distinctive qualities. The proprietary POM blend in the Piano's top and bottom housing provides a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE offers a brighter and more resonant sound signature. The choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal sound preferences - those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying tone might lean towards the Piano, while individuals seeking a more vibrant and lively typing experience may find the Tangerine more appealing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Piano linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, unfortunately, the specific gram measurement for both switches is unavailable. However, both switches can still provide similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the unknown actuation force of either switch can offer a desirable experience for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, for enthusiasts seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Durock Piano switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams may be a preferred choice. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine switch has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, placing it within the medium range. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on the user's preference for weight and typing experience; lighter for prolonged use or heavier for a more satisfying feel.

Travel distance

The Durock Piano linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches provide a similar experience.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.

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

When it comes to sound, the Durock Piano linear switch offers a deep and creamy sound signature, with a lower frequency range resembling the richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch produces a high-pitched clack when typing, providing a sharp and crisp sound. Depending on your preference for sound profiles, you can choose between the bassy sound of the Piano or the higher-pitched sound of the Tangerine. However, it's important to note that the actual sound of a switch is influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.

In terms of feel, both the Durock Piano and TKC Tangerine switches offer a frictionless typing experience. They are described as providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless feel when pressing the keys, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. The Piano switch is also described as silky, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing experience. Similarly, the Tangerine switch is described as buttery and polished, implying a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, thanks to its smooth and refined finish. Both switches ensure a fluid travel and minimize any discomfort during typing.

In conclusion, the Durock Piano and TKC Tangerine linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Piano switch is known for its deep and creamy sound profile, combined with a frictionless and silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch provides a high-pitched clack sound and a frictionless, buttery, and polished typing sensation. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you can choose between these two switches to enhance your typing experience. With either switch, you can expect similar results in terms of smoothness and lack of resistance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Durock Piano linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have their own unique qualities that make them appealing options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts like yourself.

If you prioritize a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature, then the Durock Piano switch would be the better choice for you. These switches are known for their pleasant and smooth typing experience. Additionally, if you enjoy a bass-heavy sound profile during key presses, the Piano switches are a great fit.

On the other hand, if you value an incredibly smooth feel and enjoy a high-pitched clack when typing, then the TKC Tangerine switch would be more suitable for you. The UHWMPE housing in these switches contributes to their smoothness, making every keystroke a pleasure to type. Moreover, if you prefer a crisper and sharper sound profile, the Tangerine switches are designed to provide just that.

Both switches offer frictionless typing experiences, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. They also both provide a fluid travel, ensuring a seamless typing sensation. However, if you also appreciate a buttery or polished finish that enhances the smoothness and refined feel of a switch, the Tangerine switches may be the better fit for you.

In the end, the choice between the Durock Piano linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch is a matter of personal preference. Consider what aspects of typing experience and sound profile matter most to you, and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences. Ultimately, both switches are reliable and well-regarded options within the mechanical keyboard community, so you can't go wrong with either choice.

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