HMX Swift vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the HMX Swift and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Swift and the TKC Tangerine, distinct differences emerge. The Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, attributed to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. On the other hand, the Tangerine is praised for its incredibly smooth feel and UHWMPE housings, offering a unique typing experience with a high-pitched clack. The Swift is described as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', 'Creamy', while the Tangerine is categorized as 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Swift and TKC Tangerine switches offer distinct differences in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The Swift's nylon top and bottom housing create a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound that many typists prefer. On the other hand, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top and bottom housing provide a bright sound signature, offering resonant clacks when typing. This newer material brings a unique auditory experience to typing on switches with such housings.
While both the Swift and Tangerine switches utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they each contribute to the overall typing experience in distinct ways. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This means that the combination of nylon and UHWMPE in the Swift and Tangerine switches, respectively, results in a balanced typing experience that combines the characteristics of both housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Swift and TKC Tangerine switches will come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing feel. The nylon housing of the Swift offers a deeper and fuller sound, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the UHWMPE housing of the Tangerine provides a bright and resonant typing sound that may appeal to typists looking for a more vibrant auditory experience. Both switches offer quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience, ensuring a satisfying keypress with each stroke.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Swift linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that the Swift is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Tangerine's actuation force is unspecified and its bottom out force is 62 grams. This means that the Tangerine switch requires a heavier force to bottom out compared to the Swift switch. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Swift for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may favor the heavier bottom out force of the Tangerine for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Swift linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, with the Tangerine being slightly longer. Gamers who prioritize speed and faster response times may prefer the Swift due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press and deeper travel may lean towards the Tangerine. Overall, while there is a slight difference in travel distance between the two switches, both cater to individuals who prefer shorter distances for their typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 HMX Swift linear switch is noted for its deeper and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is characterized by its high-pitched sound, resulting in a sharp and crisp sound during typing. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the deeper clack of the Swift or the higher-pitched sound of the Tangerine, but both switches offer a unique auditory experience that can enhance your typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Swift linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, offering minimal resistance and light actuation force for effortless typing. The switch is also described as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like feedback and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is known for its frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, offering an extremely smooth and refined typing sensation. Whether you prefer the light and bouncy feel of the Swift or the smooth and buttery sensation of the Tangerine, both switches prioritize comfort and ease of typing.
In conclusion, the HMX Swift linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. While the Swift excels in providing a deeper and clacky sound with an easy-to-press and bouncy feel, the Tangerine delivers a high-pitched sound with a frictionless and buttery typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a premium typing experience that can elevate your mechanical keyboard setup, providing a range of subjective qualities to cater to your individual preferences. Regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your desired sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Swift linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a deeper sound profile and a silky smooth feel with a light actuation force, the Swift switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an incredibly smooth feel with a high-pitched, clacky sound and a medium actuation force, the Tangerine switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Consider your priorities in terms of sound, feel, and actuation force to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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