TKC Tangerine vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the TKC Tangerine and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TKC Tangerine and Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear are both linear switches that offer a smooth typing experience with high-pitched sounds. The Tangerine switches are best known for their incredibly smooth feel, thanks to the UHMWPE housings, which are a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. Each keystroke on the Tangerine switch is a pleasure to type, although there is a fairly high-pitched clack when typing on them. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switches offer a similarly smooth and high-pitched typing experience. These switches have a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, allowing for maximum RGB lighting customization. The lightly lubed POM stem of the WS Aurora Clear ensures minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. Both switches have their unique features that make them desirable choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The TKC Tangerine and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear differ in terms of their housing materials. The Tangerine features a UHWMPE top housing while the WS Aurora Clear is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing. The UHWMPE top housing of the Tangerine provides a bright sound signature and resonant clacks when typing, indicating a more lively and vibrant typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the WS Aurora Clear creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Its relatively stiffer plastic composition enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for those who prioritize a more defined and bright typing sound. While both housings offer distinct characteristics, they ultimately cater to different sound preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Tangerine and the WS Aurora Clear utilize UHWMPE. This newer material for switch housings contributes to a bright sound signature, producing resonant clacks during typing. Consequently, regardless of the switch model, users can expect similar results in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. Both switches deliver a lively and audible response when pressed, thanks to the impact of their UHWMPE bottom housing. This similarity in material ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of the overall sound profile when pressing down on a key.
It is worth noting that the top and bottom housings play different roles in a switch's sound and feel. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This means that although the Tangerine and the WS Aurora Clear share similarities in their bottom housings, the choice of top housing material - UHWMPE for the Tangerine and polycarbonate for the WS Aurora Clear - will result in variations in the sound profile when letting go of a key. The Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing may provide a bright and resonant sound when releasing keys, while the WS Aurora Clear's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound.
Weight
When comparing the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Tangerine switch has an actuation force that is unavailable in grams, while the WS Aurora Clear has an actuation force of 53 grams. This means that the Aurora Clear requires a slightly lighter force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Tangerine. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Tangerine measures at 62 grams, while the Aurora Clear measures at 63.5 grams. This makes the Aurora Clear slightly heavier for bottoming out.
Considering the importance of weight in keyboard switches, some individuals prefer lighter switches to enable longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions without causing fatigue. Those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces. In this case, the TKC Tangerine would be preferred by individuals seeking a heavier bottom out force, while the WS Aurora Clear would be a suitable choice for those looking for a lighter actuation force. It is important to note that for those seeking similar results, the Tangerine and Aurora Clear switches both fall within the medium range of bottom out force, which may provide a similar typing experience in terms of force required for complete key presses.
Travel distance
The TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Tangerine has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered the most traditional distance, while the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. So, if you value responsiveness, the WS Aurora Clear may be a better choice for you. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more satisfying keypress. In this case, the TKC Tangerine with its 4 mm travel distance would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired feel of the keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00.
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
The Tangerine and WS Aurora Clear switches have similar sound profiles, both being high-pitched switches. High-pitched switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making them a good choice for those who prefer a more distinct sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Tangerine switches are described as frictionless, buttery, and polished. These qualities contribute to an incredibly smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The WS Aurora Clear switches are also described as buttery and polished, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, they are labeled as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Overall, both switches deliver a seamless and uniform typing sensation.
Based on the available information, the Tangerine and WS Aurora Clear switches share similar subjective qualities. They both offer a smooth and refined typing experience, characterized by reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a high-pitched sound profile. While individual preferences may vary, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, both the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch offer smooth and enjoyable typing experiences. The Tangerine switch stands out for its UHWMPE housings, which provide an incredibly smooth feel with each keystroke. The WS Aurora Clear switch, on the other hand, offers a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, allowing for maximum RGB lighting customization.
In terms of sound, both switches are described as producing a high-pitched and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a sharper and more distinct sound profile over a rich and bassy one, either of these higher-pitched switches would be a good choice.
When it comes to feel, the Tangerine switch is known for its frictionless, buttery, and polished qualities, offering a fluid and effortless typing experience. The WS Aurora Clear switch also has a buttery and polished feel, but is described as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience that is approachable to most.
Ultimately, the choice between the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch will depend on your specific preferences. If you prioritize a unique and smooth typing experience with UHWMPE housings, the Tangerine switch would be a great option. On the other hand, if you value RGB lighting customization and a mild yet buttery and polished feel, the WS Aurora Clear switch would be more suitable. Consider your desired sound, feel, and overall typing experience to make the best choice for your needs. In the end, both switches offer high-quality options for enhancing your mechanical keyboard setup.
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