Kailh Berry vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are numerous options available to suit different preferences. Two switches that stand out are the Kailh Berry and the TKC Tangerine, both of which are linear switches. The Berry switch is renowned for its hefty typing experience, offering a satisfying and springy feel. Typing on it provides a unique chalk-like texture, and the sound profile that emanates from it is deep with low-pitched and bassy tones. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch takes the typing experience to the next level with its incredible smoothness. Each keystroke feels like a pleasure, thanks in part to the rare UHWMPE housings that enhance the switch's overall feel. The sound it produces is fairly high-pitched and clacks in a polished manner. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and the TKC Tangerine differ in terms of their housing materials. The Berry features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE top housing, a newer material that produces a very bright sound signature. This results in resonant clacks while typing on switches with such housings. Unlike the Berry's polycarbonate, the Tangerine's UHWMPE material does not offer translucency for RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Berry utilizes a nylon material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Tangerine features a UHWMPE bottom housing, which contributes to its bright sound signature. The UHWMPE material generates resonant clacks when typing, adding a unique touch to the overall sound experience.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the Berry and the Tangerine, it is important to note that both materials bring distinct qualities to the switches. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the nylon bottom housing of the Berry and the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine will affect the overall sound and tactile experience of typing. On the other hand, the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while the materials are different, they both play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The actuation force of both switches is unavailable, meaning that the exact force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown for both. However, the bottom out force of the Berry switch is 70 grams, which falls under medium-heavy, while the Tangerine switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is categorized as medium.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Tangerine switch may be more suitable as its bottom out force is lighter than that of the Berry switch. This lighter force allows for longer typing periods, making it ideal for individuals using their keyboard for extended periods at work or during gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those seeking a more substantial typing feel and prefer a stronger push, the Berry switch with its heavier bottom out force would be a better choice.
While the actuation force remains unknown for both switches, it is important to note that similar results can be achieved even without this specific information. The actuation force primarily determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, and since it is unavailable for both switches, it can be assumed that they would provide a similar typing experience in terms of actuation.
In summary, the Kailh Berry linear switch has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger typing feel, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. Although the actuation force is unknown for both switches, it can be assumed that they would provide similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Tangerine switch is slightly longer than the Berry switch. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Tangerine switch falls into the more traditional range, offering a more familiar feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Berry switch is slightly shorter, which is preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, opting for the Berry switch with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial and deeper feel when pressing down on a key, the Tangerine switch with its longer travel distance could be more suitable for you. While the travel distances of these switches differ, both options offer a distinct feel and cater to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30.
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 sound profile of the Kailh Berry linear switch is characterized as low-pitched and bassy. This means that it produces a more mellow and deep tone during key presses, resembling the richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a high-pitched sound, which is sharp and crisp when pressed. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound, the Berry switch would be a better option, whereas if you prefer a sharper sound, the Tangerine switch would be more suitable. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is described as textured. This means that it has noticeable friction when pressed, providing a tactile feedback during typing. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is described as frictionless, buttery, and polished. This indicates that it offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The Tangerine switch provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation due to its smooth and refined finish, as well as potential factory lubing. If you prefer a textured feel with noticeable friction, the Berry switch would be a better choice. However, if you prefer a more frictionless and buttery typing experience, the Tangerine switch would be more suitable.
Taking into consideration the available information, the Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its hefty typing experience with a springy type feel and chalk-like texture. It produces a low-pitched and bassy sound during key presses, and offers a textured feel with noticeable friction. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch provides an incredibly smooth feel and a pleasure to type experience. It has a high-pitched clack sound and offers a frictionless, buttery, and polished typing experience. While the Berry and Tangerine switches have different qualities in terms of sound and feel, both can provide satisfying typing experiences depending on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prioritize a typing experience with a hefty and springy feel, along with a deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a suitable choice for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches offer a textured feel, which some users may prefer. On the other hand, if you value an incredibly smooth typing experience and enjoy the pleasure of each keystroke, the TKC Tangerine linear switch would be an ideal option. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the Tangerines provide a frictionless and buttery feel, thanks to the UHWMPE housings. It is worth noting that the Tangerines have a higher-pitched clack sound while typing. Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Berry and TKC Tangerine linear switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding typing feel and sound profile.
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