TKC Tangerine vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the TKC Tangerine and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TKC Tangerine and the Gateron Type S mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Tangerine is praised for its smooth and buttery feel, thanks to the UHWMPE housings, making each keystroke a pleasure. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S stands out for its contemporary factory lubing techniques and weightier keystroke with a pleasingly balanced sound signature. While the Tangerine switch provides a high-pitched clack and a polished typing experience, the Type S offers a more neutral and subdued sound. 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Tangerine and the Gateron Type S switches have distinct characteristics that affect the sound and feel of typing on them. The Tangerine switch utilizes UHWMPE for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a bright and resonant sound signature when typing. In contrast, the Type S switch uses nylon for both top and bottom housings, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, UHWMPE provides a more vibrant clack while nylon creates a softer and more rounded sound.
The difference in housing materials between the TKC Tangerine and Gateron Type S switches also influences the typing experience in terms of feel. The UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine switch contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, adding to the overall tactile feedback when pressing a key. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Type S switch absorbs more sound, resulting in a smoother and softer bottom-out experience. The top housing of each switch also plays a role in the sound when releasing a key, with UHWMPE offering a resonant release sound and nylon creating a deeper sound profile.
While the housing materials of the TKC Tangerine and Gateron Type S switches may differ, both switches provide unique and satisfying typing experiences. The UHWMPE material in the Tangerine switch creates a bright and resonant sound, perfect for those seeking a vibrant typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon material in the Type S switch offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, catering to those who prefer a softer and more rounded sound. Ultimately, while the materials may vary, both switches deliver high-quality sound and feel, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.
Weight
The TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both provide a smooth typing experience with their linear design. However, when comparing their actuation and bottom out forces, it is evident that the Type S is slightly heavier than the Tangerine. The Tangerine has no specified actuation force but requires 62 grams for bottoming out, while the Type S has a 55-gram actuation force and a 65-gram bottom out force. This means that the Tangerine will feel lighter and easier to type on, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Type S offers a bit more resistance, providing a firmer 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
Both the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on either key, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity means that whether you choose the Tangerine or the Type S, you can expect to get consistent results in terms of the travel distance experienced while typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30, whereas the Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70.
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 TKC Tangerine linear switch offers a high-pitched sound profile that produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch provides a more neutral sound signature with a subdued quality, offering a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference, the Tangerine switch may suit those who enjoy a sharper sound, while the Type S switch caters to those who prefer a more neutral and subdued acoustic experience.
When it comes to feel, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is praised for its frictionless and buttery typing experience, offering an extremely smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to a refined and sleek typing experience. As for the Gateron Type S linear switch, information on its feel is unavailable. However, based on the description of the Tangerine switch, it can be assumed that the Type S switch may also provide a smooth and fluid typing sensation due to its factory lubing techniques.
Overall, both the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Tangerine switch provides a high-pitched sound and a frictionless typing experience, the Type S switch offers a more neutral sound profile and potentially a similarly smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for sound and feel, as well as other factors such as keycap and keyboard choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, the Tangerine switch with its 62g bottom-out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a neutral and subdued sound signature, the Gateron Type S switch with its 65g bottom-out force might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. Experimenting with both switches may help you determine which one aligns best with your typing style.
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