TKC Tangerine vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the TKC Tangerine and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TKC Tangerine and KTT Wine Red are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique advantages for different typing experiences. The Tangerine switch is best known for its incredibly smooth feel, thanks to the rare UHWMPE housings. Typing on the Tangerine switch is described as frictionless, buttery, and polished, providing a pleasure with each keystroke. However, it does have a fairly high-pitched clack sound. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch offers a pillowy light type feel and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile. It is categorized as bassy and low-pitched, giving it a unique auditory experience. These general observations can help guide you in choosing a switch that aligns with your preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The TKC Tangerine and the KTT Wine Red switches have different housing materials for both the top and bottom components, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Tangerine switch features a UHWMPE (Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene) top housing, which produces a vibrant and resonant clack sound when typing. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic composition.
In terms of aesthetics, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing lacks translucency, while the Wine Red's polycarbonate top housing allows for the transmission of light, making it particularly suitable for RGB lighting. When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches use polycarbonate, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. However, the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing offers a bright sound signature, while the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a higher-pitched sound profile.
Although the top and bottom housings have different materials for the TKC Tangerine and KTT Wine Red switches, the division of sound qualities is evident. The bottom housing of both switches has a more significant impact on the tactile experience, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more prominent role in determining the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through innovative materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Tangerine switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Wine Red switch has an actuation force of 44 grams, making it lighter. This means that the Wine Red switch will require less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Tangerine switch. In terms of bottom out force, the Tangerine switch has a force of 62 grams, which is medium, while the Wine Red switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is medium-light. This means that the Tangerine switch will provide a slightly heavier typing experience when fully pressed compared to the Wine Red switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Wine Red switch, while those who prefer a more substantial and heavier push feel may opt for the Tangerine switch. Overall, both switches offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose according to their preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the switch travel 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches provide a similar experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30, whereas the KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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 described as having a high-pitched clack when typing on them. This means that the switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is described as having a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile. This implies that the sound of the Wine Red switches is characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is described as being extremely smooth and effortless, offering a frictionless and buttery typing experience. This means that each keystroke is a pleasure to type, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The Tangerine switches provide a fluid and polished typing sensation, thanks to the materials used and potential factory lubing. On the other hand, there is no available information on the feel of the KTT Wine Red linear switch.
In conclusion, the TKC Tangerine linear switch stands out for its smooth and effortless feel, along with a fairly high-pitched clack sound when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is known for its satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, but there is no information available regarding its feel. Based on the available information, if you're looking for a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a high-pitched sound, the Tangerine switches would be a great choice. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound profile, the Wine Red switches might be worth considering, although their feel is unknown.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is the way to go. With its frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, each keystroke will feel seamless and effortless. Additionally, the high-pitched clack of the Tangerine switch adds a sharp and crisp sound to your typing. On the other hand, if you're looking for a deeper and richer sound profile, along with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is a great choice. Its pillowy light type feel and satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile make typing on them a pleasure. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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