Gateron Smoothie vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Smoothie and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, you'll find that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Smoothie is beloved for its all-POM construction that enables a thocky sound signature, exceptional smoothness, and a lightweight touch. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine stands out for its UHWMPE housings that contribute to an incredibly smooth typing experience, paired with a high-pitched clack when typing. Both switches have qualities like being buttery and providing a polished feel, but each also has distinct characteristics like the low-pitched and creamy nature of the Smoothie versus the high-pitched and frictionless feel of the Tangerine. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Smoothie and the TKC Tangerine both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Smoothie boasts a POM top housing, which creates a deep and muted sound when typing. In contrast, the Tangerine features a UHWMPE top housing, known for its bright and resonant clacks. This difference in top housing materials results in distinct auditory experiences for users of each switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing of the switches, the Gateron Smoothie and the TKC Tangerine once again show contrasts in their housing materials. The Smoothie's POM bottom housing provides a similar pleasing sound profile to its top housing, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing adds to the bright and resonant sound signature of the switch. These differences in bottom housing materials further differentiate the typing experiences offered by the Smoothie and the Tangerine switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Smoothie and the TKC Tangerine offer distinct sound profiles, their similarities lie in the impact each housing has on the overall typing experience. Both switches demonstrate how different housing materials can influence the sound and feel of pressing down on a key and letting go. Whether it's the deeper and muted sound of the POM housings in the Smoothie or the bright and resonant clacks of the UHWMPE housings in the Tangerine, users can expect a unique typing experience based on the housing materials of their chosen switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that there are differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron Smoothie has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the actuation force of the TKC Tangerine is unknown. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the TKC Tangerine is heavier at 62 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie, which has an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Gateron Smoothie may be preferable for those who seek a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the TKC Tangerine provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that the Smoothie has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Tangerine's 4 mm. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred for faster response times, making the Smoothie a good choice for gamers seeking quick key presses. On the other hand, the Tangerine's longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper key press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 Gateron Smoothie linear switch is known for its thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound profile, creating a deep and rich tone with a satisfying feel. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch offers a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound when pressed, providing a different auditory experience compared to the Smoothie. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Smoothie is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. Conversely, the TKC Tangerine switch provides a frictionless, buttery, and polished typing sensation, minimizing resistance and offering a sleek and refined key travel. Both switches aim to enhance typing comfort through their unique feel, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Smoothie and TKC Tangerine linear switches both offer excellent quality and performance, but they differ in sound and feel characteristics. The Smoothie provides a thocky sound with a buttery typing feel, while the Tangerine offers a high-pitched sound with a frictionless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Keeping in mind your personal preferences and typing style will help you determine which switch is the best fit for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with no defined bottom out force and are looking for a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound experience with a buttery, creamy, or silky feel, then the Gateron Smoothie may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium 62-gram bottom out force, a high-pitched sound profile, and a frictionless, buttery, or polished feel, the TKC Tangerine could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound signature.
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