TKC Tangerine vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the TKC Tangerine and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the TKC Tangerine, a linear switch, and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, a tactile switch, you are faced with two distinct options for your mechanical keyboard needs. The Tangerine stands out for its smooth feel and high-pitched clack, providing a unique typing experience with its UHWMPE housings. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility with a light touch and neutral sound signature, appealing to those looking for a balanced typing feel. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that make them appealing to different types of users. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TKC Tangerine and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, it is evident that they both offer unique sound signatures based on their respective materials. The Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing provides a bright sound with resonant clacks, while the Violet Gold Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Both materials bring distinct characteristics to the typing experience, with the UHWMPE accentuating brightness and resonance, and polycarbonate enhancing clarity and sound precision.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the two switches differ in material and resulting sound profiles. The Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to a bright sound signature with resonant clacks, while the Violet Gold Pro's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to the brighter and more resonant sound generated by the UHWMPE material in the Tangerine switch. These differences in bottom housing material influence the overall typing experience and sound quality of each switch.
Overall, while the Tangerine and Violet Gold Pro offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, they both aim to enhance the typing experience in their own way. Whether it be the bright and resonant characteristics of UHWMPE in the Tangerine switch or the sharp and clear sound profile of polycarbonate in the Violet Gold Pro, each material brings unique qualities to the table. By understanding how the top and bottom housings of a switch impact the sound and feel during typing, users can choose the switch that best aligns with their preferences for sound profile and overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Tangerine has a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Violet Gold Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. The actuation force of the Tangerine is not specified. This means that the Tangerine may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Violet Gold Pro may allow for longer typing sessions with its lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing feel. If both switches had the same actuation force or bottom out force, users would likely achieve similar typing results in terms of pressure and feedback. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Tangerine provides a bit more depth when typing or gaming, which some may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those looking for a faster response time. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, so they will both provide a familiar typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the TKC Tangerine linear switch offers a high-pitched clack with each keystroke, creating a sharp and crisp sound that may appeal to those who prefer a brighter sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature, striking a balance between actuation force and sound that caters to a wider range of users. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Tangerine leaning towards a more pronounced sound and the Violet Gold Pro offering a more moderate and versatile sound profile.
In terms of feel, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is praised for its frictionless and buttery typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke that minimizes resistance. The polished finish of the switch enhances the overall typing sensation, making each press feel refined and sleek. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch is described as stepped, offering a mild tactile response with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel stages. While the Tangerine focuses on a seamless and refined typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro prioritizes a subtle tactile feedback that suits those looking for a gentler key feel.
Overall, the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Tangerine excels in providing a high-pitched clack and a frictionless, buttery typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a sharper sound profile and smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a neutral sound signature and a stepped tactile response, making it a versatile option for those seeking a balanced and gentle typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Tangerine switches would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a balanced and neutral tactile feel with a light touch and an emphasis on sound neutrality, then the Violet Gold Pro switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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