SP-Star RedBlue vs. TKC Tangerine

Overview

If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, the SP-Star RedBlue and the TKC Tangerine are two great options to consider. The RedBlue switches are perfect for those who enjoy a medium-light typing experience. They provide a relatively higher-pitched sound profile and are categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Tangerine switches offer a whole new level of typing pleasure with their incredibly smooth feel. This is largely attributed to the UHWMPE housings, which are a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. When typing on the Tangerine switches, you'll experience a fairly high-pitched clack. They are categorized as 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch will suit your preferences.

By the numbers

SP-Star RedBlue Linear

TKC Tangerine Linear

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

$6.30 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the SP-Star RedBlue and the TKC Tangerine switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The RedBlue features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch utilizes UHWMPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) for both its top and bottom housing. This newer material delivers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the RedBlue's polycarbonate may provide a more pronounced and defined sound, particularly when releasing a key.

When observing the effect of the housing materials on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing stands out. With its stiffness and resulting clear and resonant sound profile, the RedBlue is likely to offer a more distinct and impactful bottom-out experience. Conversely, the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing is expected to provide a different sensory feedback, possibly resulting in a softer or less pronounced bottom-out sound. While both materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch, it's worth noting the potential contrast in the bottom-out experience between the two switches.

Regarding the impact of the housing materials on the sound when releasing a key, the focus shifts to the top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the RedBlue is likely to play a more significant role in the sound generated when a key is let go, thanks to its stiffer nature and resulting resonance. In contrast, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing may produce a distinct sound profile characterized by bright and resonant clacks. Both materials have their own unique qualities that contribute to the sound profile when releasing a key, but their differences provide an opportunity for users to choose based on their preferred auditory experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force for both switches is unavailable, meaning we do not have specific information on the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force for the RedBlue is 57 grams, which falls into the medium-light category, while the Tangerine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is also classified as medium.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the RedBlue switch would be a suitable choice, as its bottom out force is slightly lighter than the Tangerine. This lighter force allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for those who use their keyboard extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel and a stronger push when typing might opt for the Tangerine switch, which has a slightly heavier bottom out force. This heavier force provides a more pronounced tactile feedback and can contribute to a more satisfying typing experience.

While we do not have information on the actuation forces of either switch, it can be assumed that since both switches fall into the medium range for bottom out force, they might have similar actuation forces as well. Therefore, if one is seeking similar results in terms of actuation force, either the RedBlue or the Tangerine switch can be chosen with confidence. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that both switches 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 similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, the RedBlue and Tangerine switches offer identical results.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a relatively higher-pitched profile. This means that the sound produced when typing on these switches will have a higher frequency and may be more noticeable. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is described as having a high-pitched clack when typing on them. This suggests that the sound produced by the Tangerine switches will be sharp and crisp, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced and crisp sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used. Overall, while the RedBlue and Tangerine switches have different sound profiles, they both offer unique and satisfying auditory experiences.

In terms of feel, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic indicates that these switches offer a gentle typing experience, suitable for most users. The polished aspect suggests that the switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is described as frictionless, buttery, and polished. This implies that the Tangerine switches offer an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, with minimal resistance or friction. The buttery characteristic further emphasizes the seamless and uniform typing sensation provided by these switches. Overall, both the RedBlue and Tangerine switches offer smooth and enjoyable typing experiences, with the Tangerine switches being especially praised for their frictionless and buttery feel.

Taking all the available information into consideration, the SP-Star RedBlue and TKC Tangerine linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The RedBlue switches are characterized by a medium-light typing experience with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. They provide a mild and polished feel, ensuring approachability and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Tangerine switches elevate the typing experience with an incredibly smooth feel, thanks to the UHWMPE housings, making them rare in the world of mechanical switches. They produce a high-pitched clack sound when typing and offer a frictionless and buttery feel. While the two switches differ in their sound and feel, they both provide satisfying and enjoyable typing experiences. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience and a higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is the perfect choice for you. These switches offer a relatively low-pitched sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for most purposes. Additionally, the RedBlue switches provide a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you want to take your typing experience to the next level and enjoy an incredibly smooth feel, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is the ideal option. With their UHWMPE housings, these switches offer a high-pitched clack when typing, producing a sharp and crisp sound. In terms of feel, the Tangerine switches are frictionless and buttery, providing an effortless and uniform typing sensation. The Tangerines truly elevate the typing experience and offer a unique combination of smoothness and sound.

Ultimately, the choice between the RedBlue and Tangerine switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire. Both switches have their strengths and are suited for different needs. Weigh the factors of actuation force, sound profile, and feel to decide which switch aligns best with your preferences. Whether you opt for the medium-light and low-pitched RedBlue switches or the smooth and high-pitched Tangerines, both will undoubtedly enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

SP-Star RedBlue Linear

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

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TKC Tangerine Linear

$6.30 per 10

Learn more