TKC Tangerine vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the TKC Tangerine and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TKC Tangerine and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow are both linear switches that are highly regarded in the world of mechanical keyboards. The Tangerines are known for their incredibly smooth feel, thanks to the UHWMPE housings which are rare in custom switches. Typing on them provides a high-pitched clack and each keystroke is a pleasure. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switches offer a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a 22mm double-stage spring at its core, these switches deliver a satisfying bounce and a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore. They are crafted to be lightweight, ensuring effortless and fluid typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Tangerine switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch provide distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Tangerine switch features a UHWMPE top housing, which is a newer material for switch housings. It offers a bright sound signature, resulting in resonant clacks when typing. In contrast, the WS Yellow switch utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both top housings provide satisfying sound experiences, the Tangerine switch leans towards brighter and more resonant clacks, while the WS Yellow switch offers a deeper and fuller sound.
Moving to the bottom housings, the Tangerine switch features a UHWMPE bottom housing, mirroring the material used for its top housing. This provides consistency in sound signature, ensuring a bright and resonant bottom-out sound and feel when typing. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch incorporates a nylon bottom housing, complementing its nylon top housing. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile upon bottom-out. Therefore, the Tangerine switch offers a consistent bright and resonant bottom-out experience, while the WS Yellow switch provides a deeper and fuller sound with a slightly softer feel.
If we consider the combination of both top and bottom housings in the switches, the TKC Tangerine switch's UHWMPE housing throughout ensures a cohesive and bright sound experience both upon pressing and releasing a key. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch divides the housing materials between the top and bottom, resulting in a blend of deeper and fuller sound upon pressing and releasing a key. While the Tangerine switch guarantees a consistently bright sound, the WS Yellow switch incorporates a combination of dullness and depth, adding variety to the typing experience.
Overall, the TKC Tangerine and Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches provide different sound profiles and tactile experiences due to their distinct housing materials. The Tangerine switch offers a consistently bright and resonant sound with its UHWMPE housing, while the WS Yellow switch delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile using a combination of nylon top and bottom housing. Whether you prefer a brighter and more resonant sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer unique and satisfying typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, both switches have a medium bottom out force. However, the actuation force for the Tangerine is not available, while the actuation force for the WS Yellow is also unavailable. As such, it is difficult to determine how they differ in terms of actuation force. In terms of weight, the Tangerine switch is heavier with a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the WS Yellow switch is lighter with a bottom out force of 53 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the WS Yellow switch due to its lower bottom out force, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Tangerine switch, as it provides a stronger push feel. Overall, the weight of the switches should be a crucial factor in deciding which one to choose, depending on one's typing preferences and the intended usage of the keyboard.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TKC Tangerine linear switch is 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is considered the norm, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, with the increasing popularity of gaming, shorter travel distances have become more prevalent for faster response times. If you prioritize quick and responsive typing or gaming, the WS Yellow switch with its 3.8 mm travel distance may be the better option for you. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired typing feel. Whether you opt for the slightly shorter travel distance of the WS Yellow or the 4 mm travel distance of the Tangerine, both switches will provide similar results in terms of tactile feedback and key travel.
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 Yellow comes in at $3.50.
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 switch is best described as having a high-pitched clack when typing on them. This means that the sound produced is sharp and crisp. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound produced by the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the TKC Tangerine switch is known for its frictionless, buttery, and polished qualities. This means that it offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. The keystrokes feel seamless, effortless, and uniform. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch is described as creamy, mild, and polished. This implies that it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a gentle typing sensation that most people would find approachable. It also provides reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the TKC Tangerine and Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches both offer a smooth and fluid typing experience. They are both known for their polished finishes, which result in sleek typing experiences. While the Tangerine switch has a high-pitched sound and a somewhat frictionless feel, the sound and feel of the WS Yellow switch are not specifically mentioned. However, considering their creamy and mild qualities, it can be expected that the WS Yellow switch will provide a similarly smooth and pleasant typing experience. So, if you are looking for a linear switch with a smooth feel and a polished sound, both the Tangerine and WS Yellow switches can deliver these results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience, both the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch are great choices. The Tangerine switch features an incredibly smooth feel, thanks to its UHWMPE housings, which are a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch offers a delightful typing experience with its 22mm double-stage spring at its core, providing a satisfying bounce. Both switches are described as "polished," meaning they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience.
In terms of sound, the Tangerine switch is described as having a high-pitched clack when typing on them, while there is no specific description for the WS Yellow switch. This suggests that if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Tangerine switch might be more appealing.
Ultimately, the choice between the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a high-quality feel, the Tangerine switch might be the better option. However, if you prefer a creamy and mild typing sensation, along with a satisfying bounce, the WS Yellow switch could be a perfect fit. Consider your sound preferences as well when making your decision.
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