TKC Tangerine vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the TKC Tangerine and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TKC Tangerine and the PH Studio Yoel mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, it's clear that they each offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Tangerine is applauded for its smooth feel and UHWMPE housings, providing a frictionless and buttery typing sensation with a high-pitched clack. On the other hand, the Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, offers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that is both satisfying and pronounced. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The TKC Tangerine and PH Studio Yoel both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the sound signature of the switches. The Tangerine features UHWMPE top and bottom housings, known for their bright and resonant clacks when typing. On the other hand, the Yoel comes with polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially suitable for showcasing RGB lighting effects. The contrast between the bright sound of UHWMPE and the crisp sound of polycarbonate can impact the overall typing experience in different ways.
While the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine provides a bright and resonant sound signature, the POM bottom housing of the Yoel creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics between the two bottom housings can influence the overall acoustics of the switches when in use. As the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the material choice plays a significant role in shaping the typing experience for users of the Tangerine and Yoel switches.
It's interesting to note that the housing materials of the Tangerine and Yoel switches are different for both the top and bottom housings, which results in a split of qualities between the top and bottom of the switch. The UHWMPE and polycarbonate top housings will have a more noticeable impact on the sound when pressing down and releasing a key, respectively. This division in sound characteristics based on the housing material showcases the attention to detail and intentionality in design that both TKC and PH Studio put into their respective switches to cater to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The TKC Tangerine linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch both have medium bottom out forces, with the Tangerine being slightly heavier at 62 grams compared to the Yoel's 60 grams. However, the actuation force of the Yoel is lighter at 53 grams, while the Tangerine's actuation force is not specified. If the actuation force of the Tangerine is also around 53 grams, then users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding weight - whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, slightly longer than the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In terms of responsiveness, the Yoel switch with the shorter travel distance may offer a faster response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch with a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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 best known for its high-pitched clack when typing, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile that some users may find pleasurable. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a bright and clacky typing experience, with a pronounced resonance when keys reach their bottom-out point. Both switches provide unique auditory feedback, with the Tangerine leaning towards a higher-pitched sound and the Yoel offering a more clacky and resonant profile.
Moving on to the feel, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is renowned for its frictionless and buttery keystroke experience, offering a polished feel with smooth and effortless key travel. In comparison, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch delivers a creamy and polished typing sensation, characterized by a smooth and buttery feel that enhances the overall typing experience. Both switches prioritize smoothness and fluidity in typing, providing users with a satisfying tactile sensation while in use.
In conclusion, while the TKC Tangerine and PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches prioritize delivering a premium typing experience characterized by smoothness, fluidity, and tactile satisfaction. Whether opting for the high-pitched clack of the Tangerine or the bright and clacky feel of the Yoel, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal sound and feel preferences, as both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TKC Tangerine linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, the Tangerine may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a chewy typing sensation with a bright and clacky sound, the Yoel could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Experimenting with both switches can help you determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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