Everglide Sakura Pink vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Everglide Sakura Pink and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options to consider are the Everglide Sakura Pink and the TKC Tangerine, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Sakura Pink switch is renowned for its feather-light actuation force of 35g, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a delicate typing experience. It offers a gliding type feel and operates effortlessly, providing a smooth and seamless typing experience. Its delightful poppy sound adds a playful touch to your keyboarding sessions. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch takes your typing experience to the next level with its incredibly smooth feel. The uniqueness of these switches lies in their UHWMPE housings, a rarity amongst bespoke mechanical switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you better decide which switch suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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 Everglide Sakura Pink and the TKC Tangerine differ in their composition, resulting in distinct sound profiles and aesthetics. The Sakura Pink employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing on the switch. Additionally, it is ideal for those planning to use RGB lighting due to its transparent nature. On the other hand, the Tangerine features a UHWMPE top housing, a relatively newer material that offers a very bright sound signature. This results in resonant clacks when typing on switches using this housing, providing a distinctive auditory experience compared to the Sakura Pink.
Similarly, the bottom housing of the Everglide Sakura Pink and the TKC Tangerine also differ in material. The Sakura Pink utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which brings the same qualities of sharpness, higher pitch, and clarity to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. It contributes to the overall sound profile and tactile experience when pressing down on the switch. On the contrary, the Tangerine employs a UHWMPE bottom housing, further enhancing its unique sound signature. This material adds to the bright and resonant clacks when typing on switches with this housing, creating distinct tactile feedback.
Although the materials used for the top and bottom housings of the Everglide Sakura Pink and the TKC Tangerine differ, they both focus on enhancing the sound profile of the switches. For the Sakura Pink, the polycarbonate materials create a stiffer and more resonant sound, whether it be in the top or bottom housing. Similarly, the UHWMPE material used in the Tangerine's top and bottom housings aims to offer a bright and resonant clack when typing. Despite the differences in their respective compositions, both switches prioritize delivering a satisfying auditory and tactile experience to users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are notable differences. The Sakura Pink has a relatively light actuation force of 35 grams, meaning it requires a gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Tangerine switch does not provide specific information on its actuation force. However, it has a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a medium level of resistance when pressing the keys all the way down. This makes the Tangerine switch heavier in comparison to the Sakura Pink.
Considerations regarding weight become important when choosing between these switches. Some users prefer lighter switches, like the Sakura Pink, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This can be particularly advantageous for those using their keyboard extensively for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier force. In this case, the TKC Tangerine, with its higher bottom out force, would be a suitable choice. It gives a stronger push feel, providing a satisfying and tactile typing experience.
Ultimately, while the Sakura Pink and Tangerine switches differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, they cater to distinct preferences. Those seeking a lighter touch should choose the Sakura Pink, while individuals desiring a more substantial typing experience can opt for the heavier TKC Tangerine switch.
Travel distance
The Everglide Sakura Pink and TKC Tangerine linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and reliable typing experience with a moderate travel distance. Whether you choose the Sakura Pink or the Tangerine, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance and overall typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
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 Everglide Sakura Pink is known for its muted sound. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The sound of the Sakura Pink is described as a delightfully poppy sound, reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped, adding a playful touch to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine is known for its high-pitched sound. This means that it produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, you may choose the Sakura Pink. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Sakura Pink and the Tangerine offer a smooth and effortless typing experience. The Sakura Pink is described as buttery, creamy, easy-to-press, and frictionless. This means that the keystroke experience is smooth and fluid, with a seamless and uniform typing sensation. It requires minimal force to activate the keys, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Tangerine also provides a frictionless and buttery feel. It offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Additionally, the Tangerine is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience.
Based on the available information, both switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both provide smooth and effortless typing experiences with a frictionless operation. While the Sakura Pink has a muted sound and the Tangerine has a high-pitched sound, both can deliver satisfying results depending on personal preferences. If you prefer a quieter and more playful sound, the Sakura Pink may be a better choice. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Tangerine may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the Everglide Sakura Pink and the TKC Tangerine will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are a delicate typist looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch is the perfect choice for you. With its feather-light 45g bottom out force and easy-to-press actuation, these switches offer a gentle and low-impact typing feel that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Sakura Pinks produce a playful poppy sound reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped, adding a touch of fun to your keyboarding sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize an incredibly smooth feel and enjoy a high-pitched clack when typing, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is the way to go. With its medium 62g bottom out force and frictionless operation, each keystroke on the Tangerines becomes a pleasure to type. The UHWMPE housings further enhance the smoothness of these switches, providing a refined and sleek typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Sakura Pink and the TKC Tangerine switch comes down to your preference for actuation and typing sound.
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