Akko V3 Silver Pro vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique advantages for different types of users. The Akko V3 Silver Pro is tailored specifically for gamers, boasting a light actuation force and shortened travel distance that can be crucial in fast-paced gaming scenarios. The switches provide an easy-to-press feel with a pleasing bassy sound, making each keystroke effortless. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switches are praised for their incredibly smooth feel, thanks to the UHWMPE housings that set them apart from other switches. Typing on the Tangerines is a truly enjoyable experience with a high-pitched clack that adds to the overall satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13.8mm spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Silver Pro and the TKC Tangerine both offer unique housing materials for their switches. The V3 Silver Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes it ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE top housing, providing a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks while typing. Both materials offer distinct sound profiles, with polycarbonate leaning towards a clearer sound and UHWMPE towards a brighter sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the V3 Silver Pro uses a nylon material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the TKC Tangerine uses UHWMPE for its bottom housing, offering a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. While both materials provide different sound profiles, nylon leans towards a deeper sound while UHWMPE offers a brighter sound experience.
Overall, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the TKC Tangerine showcase how unique housing materials can impact the sound profile of a switch. While the V3 Silver Pro combines polycarbonate and nylon for distinct sound characteristics in the top and bottom housing, the Tangerine uses UHWMPE for both top and bottom, resulting in a bright sound signature throughout. Whether opting for a sharper, higher-pitched sound with the V3 Silver Pro or a brighter, resonant clacking sound with the Tangerine, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the TKC Tangerine linear switch which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Silver Pro requires 45 grams while the Tangerine requires 62 grams, making the Tangerine switch the heavier option. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the V3 Silver Pro for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the TKC Tangerine switch. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to different preferences for typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Silver Pro has a shorter distance of 3.3 mm, while the Tangerine has a longer distance of 4 mm. The V3 Silver Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, whereas the Tangerine's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver 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 Silver 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, both the Akko V3 Silver Pro and TKC Tangerine switches are described as high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This can be a preference based on personal taste, with some users enjoying the rich and bassy sound of other switches. The sound quality of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Silver Pro offers an easy-to-press experience with creamy, feathery, polished, and silky qualities. These switches provide a smooth and low-impact typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switches are described as frictionless, buttery, and polished, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Both switches prioritize a smooth keystroke experience, enhancing the overall comfort and performance during typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and TKC Tangerine linear switches each bring their unique qualities to the table for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the V3 Silver Pro excels in providing a light actuation force and pleasing bassy sound, the TKC Tangerine stands out for its incredibly smooth feel and rarity of UHWMPE housings. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, typing experience, and overall performance. It's worth noting that both switches offer similar characteristics in terms of being high-pitched and providing smooth and polished typing experiences, ensuring that users can expect reliable and enjoyable results regardless of their selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch or the TKC Tangerine linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you are seeking a light and easy-to-press switch with a pleasing bassy sound, the V3 Silver Pro may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you are a gamer looking to enhance your performance. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, the Tangerine switch could be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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