Kailh Sage vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Kailh Sage 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 Kailh Sage, a clicky switch, and the TKC Tangerine, a linear switch. The Sage switches offer a distinct clicky typing experience, with a weight that is quite heavy and a refreshingly sharp clickiness. On the other hand, the Tangerines are linear switches that take your typing experience to the next level. With an incredibly smooth feel, each keystroke becomes a pleasure to type, thanks in part to the UHWMPE housings, a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. While the Sage is categorized as invigorating, sharp, and crunchy, the Tangerine is known for being frictionless, buttery, high-pitched, and polished. These general pointers give you an idea of what to expect from each switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
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 Kailh Sage and the TKC Tangerine differ in terms of their housing materials. The Sage features a polycarbonate top housing, which gives it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Tangerine boasts a UHWMPE top housing, a newer material that offers a very bright sound signature and produces resonant clacks while typing. While both materials enhance the sound quality of the switches, the Sage leans towards a sharper and clearer tone, while the Tangerine offers a brighter sound with a unique clacking experience.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Sage utilizes a nylon housing, which is considered a classic choice. Nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound while typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. On the other hand, the Tangerine features a UHWMPE bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This material also contributes to a bright sound signature and resonant sound when pressing the keys. Although both materials offer sound enhancement, the Sage's nylon bottom housing focuses more on depth and fullness, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing adds to the overall brightness and resonance of the switch.
In summary, the Kailh Sage and the TKC Tangerine differ in their housing materials, resulting in variations in sound profiles. The Sage with its polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing offers a brighter tone and resonant clacks. In terms of the bottom housing, the Sage's nylon material adds depth and fullness to the sound, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE material maintains the switch's overall brightness and resonance. Although they differ in materials, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their unique sound qualities. So, whether you choose the Sage or the Tangerine, you can expect to achieve satisfying results in terms of sound and performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force for both switches is unavailable, so it is difficult to directly compare them in terms of lightness or heaviness. However, it is clear that the Kailh Sage has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the TKC Tangerine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is a medium force.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the TKC Tangerine switch, as it has a slightly lower bottom out force. This lighter weight allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for tasks such as work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a stronger tactile feedback and a more substantial typing experience may find the heavier bottom out force of the Kailh Sage clicky switch more fitting. This added resistance provides a satisfying push feel, enhancing the overall typing sensation.
It is worth noting that without information on the actuation force of both switches, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of how light or heavy they feel when triggering a keystroke. However, since the Sage and Tangerine switches belong to different switch types (clicky vs. linear), it is safe to assume that the actuation forces may differ to some extent as well. Ultimately, selecting either switch will result in a keyboard experience that aligns with the preferences of the user, whether they prefer a lighter or heavier keystroke.
Travel distance
The Kailh Sage clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch exhibit a difference in their travel distances. The Sage has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Tangerine has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Tangerine aligns with the average of 4.0 mm, providing a familiar and conventional typing experience. On the other hand, the Sage offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. The shorter travel distance can enhance the responsiveness of keystrokes, contributing to improved gaming performance. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may find the shorter travel distance of the Sage to be too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference – whether one prioritizes quicker response times or a more substantial typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25, 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
The Kailh Sage clicky switch is best known for its heavy weight and sharp clickiness. It offers a distinct clicky typing experience, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is renowned for its incredibly smooth feel. Each keystroke on the Tangerine is a pleasure to type, thanks to the UHWMPE housings, which are a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. Typing on the Tangerine switch produces a fairly high-pitched clack.
When it comes to sound, the Sage switch has a crunchy and satisfying sound, commonly associated with clicky switches. It's like the sound of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch is known for its high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, the Tangerine switch might not be the ideal choice.
In terms of feel, the Sage switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile experience. It provides pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch offers a frictionless, buttery, and polished feel. It provides an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The Tangerine switch offers a fluid travel with a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a heavy and sharp clicky typing experience with a crunchy sound, the Sage switch is your best bet. On the other hand, if you desire an incredibly smooth and effortless typing experience with a high-pitched clack sound, the Tangerine switch is the way to go. Both switches provide unique and pleasurable typing experiences, catering to different preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a distinct clicky typing experience and enjoy a heavier key feel, the Kailh Sage switch is an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it offers a medium-heavy weight and a refreshingly sharp clickiness. The Sage switches are described as invigorating and sharp, providing pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive feel that can create an immersive typing sensation. If you are someone who appreciates the sound of crunchy switches, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, the Sage switch is likely to be a satisfying option for you.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and frictionless typing experience, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a medium weight that many find comfortable. The Tangerines are known for their incredibly smooth feel, thanks to the UHWMPE housings, which are rare in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. When typing on the Tangerine switch, you can expect a fairly high-pitched clack. Additionally, the Tangerines are described as frictionless, buttery, and polished, providing an effortless and uniform typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a high-pitched sound profile and value a seamless and fluid keystroke experience, the Tangerine switch is likely to be a great fit for you.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch comes down to your personal preferences in terms of clickiness, key feel, sound, and typing experience. Consider whether you prioritize a distinct clicky feel or a smooth and frictionless typing experience, as well as the weight and sound profile that suit your preferences. Both switches have their unique qualities and can enhance your typing experience in different ways. So, weigh your priorities and make an informed decision based on what best suits your needs. In the end, whichever switch you choose, both the Kailh Sage and the TKC Tangerine offer high-quality options to elevate your mechanical keyboard experience.
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