TKC Tangerine vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the TKC Tangerine and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TKC Tangerine and the Gazzew U4 are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer different typing experiences. The Tangerine is a linear switch known for its incredibly smooth feel, thanks to its UHWMPE housings. Typing on the Tangerines provides a frictionless and buttery sensation with a high-pitched clack. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch that offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump when typing. It also provides an unexpectedly plush bottom-out sensation, giving it a felt-like feel. Additionally, the U4s have a whisper-quiet sound profile, adding a touch of subtlety to their style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Tangerine and the Gazzew U4 switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Tangerine switches utilize UHWMPE material for both the top and bottom housing. This newer material offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing, giving the switch a lively and vibrant feel. In contrast, the U4 switches feature a proprietary Gazzew blend for both its top and bottom housing, often known as "boba plastic." This blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, resulting in a more mellow and immersive typing experience. Despite the differences, both the Tangerine and U4 switches provide satisfying auditory feedback, making them suitable choices for users who enjoy distinct sound characteristics.
While the bottom housing of a switch may have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when releasing a key. With the Tangerine switches, the UHWMPE top housing enhances the clacking sound when you let go of a key, contributing to a satisfying and audible feedback. In comparison, the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4 switches offers a softer and more muted sound when releasing a key, delivering a smooth and gentle typing experience. Despite their different approaches, both switches provide clear and noticeable sound signatures when keys are released, albeit with varying degrees of intensity.
In summary, the TKC Tangerine and Gazzew U4 switches showcase different housing materials that result in contrasting sound profiles. The UHWMPE housing of the Tangerine switches produces a bright and resonant clacking sound, creating a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend housing of the U4 switches offers a rich and deep sound, providing a more mellow and immersive typing feel. However, both switches excel in delivering satisfying auditory feedback, making them suitable for users seeking distinct sound characteristics in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, we find both similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the TKC Tangerine switch provides no specific measurement, while the U4 requires 43 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This suggests that the U4 requires a lighter touch to actuate compared to the Tangerine, although without an exact figure for the latter, we cannot make a direct comparison. Moving on to the bottom out force, both switches have the same measurement, requiring 62 grams of force to press all the way down. This means that users can expect a similar feeling of resistance and feedback when fully pressing the keys on either switch. Considering the weight aspect, those seeking a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gazzew U4 switch due to its lower actuation force, which allows for extended periods of comfortable use. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Tangerine switch, assuming it offers a heavier actuation force. In summary, while the specifics of the actuation force for the Tangerine switch remain unknown, the Gazzew U4 offers a lighter touch, and both switches share the same bottom out force of 62 grams.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is clear that the Tangerine has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the Tangerine falls within the average range, while the U4 is considered to have a shallower travel distance. However, it is worth noting that shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize quick response times. In this case, choosing the U4 with its shorter travel distance would be more suitable. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and lacking in depth, preferring the longer travel distance offered by the Tangerine. Overall, the choice between these switches ultimately comes down to an individual's preference for either responsiveness or depth in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30, whereas the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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 is known for its high-pitched clack when typing on them. This produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which some users may find pleasing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a sound profile that is whisper quiet. It is described as producing a muted and low-pitched sound, which gives it a softer and quieter noise compared to regular switches. The choice of board and keycaps can also affect the sound of the switch.
When it comes to feel, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is known for its frictionless, buttery, and polished qualities. It offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, with a fluid travel and a seamless, uniform sensation. The switch's smooth and refined finish, possibly due to materials used and/or factory lubing, results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is described as having a sharp tactile bump. This means it has a high feedback intensity, and the tactile bump can be distinctly felt with each keypress.
Based on the available information, the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Tangerine switch provides a smooth feel and a high-pitched clack sound, while the U4 switch offers a sharp tactile bump and a whisper quiet sound. Depending on the user's preferences, either switch can be a suitable choice. If a user prefers a smooth and effortless typing experience with a high-pitched sound, the Tangerine switch would be a good option. On the other hand, if a user prefers a sharper and more tactile typing experience with a quieter sound, the U4 switch would be a great choice. It is important to consider personal preferences and individual typing needs when selecting a switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch that provides a smooth and pleasureful typing experience, the TKC Tangerine is a great choice. With its UHWMPE housings, it offers an incredibly smooth feel and a medium bottom out force of 62 grams. The Tangerine switch is best known for its high-pitched clack sound profile, which adds a sharp and crisp sound to your typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a silent tactile switch with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 is the switch for you. It provides a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, giving you a unique and satisfying typing experience. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the U4 switch offers a whisper quiet sound profile that is muted and low-pitched.
Ultimately, the choice between the TKC Tangerine and the Gazzew U4 comes down to personal preference. If you value smoothness and a high-pitched clack sound, go for the Tangerine. If you prefer a silent and tactile switch with a sharp bump, go for the U4. Both switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences, so choose the one that aligns with your preferences and needs.
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