TKC Tangerine vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the TKC Tangerine and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TKC Tangerine and the HMX Xinhai are both linear mechanical keyboard switches known for their unique characteristics and exceptional performance. The Tangerines offer an incredibly smooth typing experience with a high-pitched clack, thanks to the UHWMPE housings, making each keystroke a pleasure. On the other hand, the Xinhai switches are crafted with a PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, providing a blend of sophistication and precision. While the Tangerine is described as 'frictionless', 'buttery', 'high-pitched', and 'polished', the Xinhai is characterized as 'bouncy', 'clacky', and 'creamy'. Each switch has its unique appeal, offering different typing experiences depending on individual preferences. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Tangerine and the HMX Xinhai have distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for its top and bottom housing, resulting in a bright and resonant sound signature when typing. In contrast, the Xinhai features polycarbonate for its top housing, offering a sharper and crisper sound profile with a more translucent aesthetic. While both materials are newer options for switch housings, they create different auditory experiences for users.
The bottom housing materials of the Tangerine and Xinhai also play a significant role in determining the sound produced by the switches. The Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to the bright sound signature of the switch, producing resonant clacks during typing. On the other hand, the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. These differences in bottom housing materials further distinguish the sound profiles of the two switches.
While the housing materials of the TKC Tangerine and the HMX Xinhai offer unique sound profiles, they both exemplify the impact that housing materials have on the overall typing experience. The utilization of newer materials like UHWMPE and polycarbonate demonstrates a commitment to innovation in the mechanical keyboard community. Whether it's the bright sound signature of the Tangerine or the sharp and clear sound profile of the Xinhai, users can expect high-quality sound experiences from switches that incorporate these advanced housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Tangerine has a higher bottom out force at 62 grams compared to the Xinhai's 45 grams. The actuation force of the Xinhai is 37 grams, while it is unknown for the Tangerine. This means that the Xinhai is lighter in terms of actuation force as well. The Tangerine offers a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force, while the Xinhai provides a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Tangerine being on the heavier side and the Xinhai being lighter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we see that the Tangerine has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Xinhai has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Tangerine offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users compared to the Xinhai. The Xinhai, with its shorter travel distance, may be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Xinhai being on the shallower end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is known for its high-pitched clack when typing, providing a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy tone when pressed. While both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, they cater to different preferences in sound, with the Tangerine having a higher pitch and the Xinhai offering a brighter and percussive sound.
Moving on to feel, the TKC Tangerine switch is renowned for its frictionless and buttery typing experience, highlighted by a smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance or friction. This results in a polished and refined typing sensation that is consistent and fluid. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai switch provides a bouncy and creamy feel, offering a spring-like feedback with a smooth and buttery typing experience. The keys feel lively and rebound when pressed, delivering a silky sensation that allows for effortless typing.
In conclusion, the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer unique qualities in both sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Tangerine excels in providing a high-pitched clack and a frictionless, polished typing experience, the Xinhai stands out with its clacky sound profile and bouncy, creamy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, as both switches offer quality craftsmanship and enhance the overall typing experience. If you are looking for a similar typing experience, either switch would provide satisfactory results based on the similarities in their subjective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a more medium bottom out force and enjoy a high-pitched sound profile with a frictionless and buttery typing experience, the TKC Tangerine switch is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and prefer a clacky sound profile with a bouncy and creamy typing experience, the HMX Xinhai switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force to enhance your overall typing experience.
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