Kailh Box Royal vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch with exceptional tactility, the Kailh Box Royal is a standout option. These switches offer an almost aggressive tactility, making every keystroke feel satisfyingly sharp and binary. Additionally, the higher-pitched sound profile adds an auditory dimension to the typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and seamless typing experience, the TKC Tangerine linear switch might be the perfect fit for you. With its ultra-smooth feel and the rare inclusion of UHWMPE housings, each keystroke on the Tangerine switch feels like a pleasure. The Tangerine switch also exhibits a high-pitched clack, further enhancing the overall typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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 Box Royal and the TKC Tangerine differ in their housing materials, with the Box Royal using a nylon housing and the Tangerine utilizing a UHWMPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, UHWMPE is a newer material known for its bright sound signature, providing resonant clacks when typing.
In terms of the top housing, the Box Royal's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of the nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing offers a very bright sound signature. Typing on switches with this housing resonates with distinct clacks, providing a vibrant and lively auditory experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the qualities brought by the housing material are felt during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. The Box Royal's nylon bottom housing adds to a deeper and fuller sound profile during the bottom-out, complementing the traits of the top housing. In contrast, the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel. This newer material enhances the overall typing experience by providing a pronounced and satisfying keystroke sensation.
Although the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Kailh Box Royal and the TKC Tangerine, they both offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. If using either switch, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel based on the housing materials used. However, the Box Royal will exhibit a deeper and fuller sound profile throughout, while the Tangerine will provide a brighter and more resonant sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Kailh Box Royal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the actuation force of the TKC Tangerine switch is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider as it can greatly impact typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for switches with lower actuation and bottom out forces, allowing them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This lightness is ideal for keyboards used in work environments or for extended gaming sessions.
Conversely, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and tangible typing experience may lean towards switches with heavier forces. The Kailh Box Royal, with its actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 70 grams, provides a noticeable push feel, giving users a satisfying and robust typing experience.
In terms of force comparison, the TKC Tangerine switch falls in the medium category for both actuation and bottom out forces. Though the exact actuation force is unknown, the 62-gram bottom out force suggests a moderate typing experience without requiring an excessive amount of pressure.
In summary, the Kailh Box Royal is relatively heavier with its actuation and bottom out forces, providing a more pronounced tactile experience. Conversely, the TKC Tangerine is lighter in comparison, offering a slightly lower bottom out force and an unknown actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, whether one prefers the lighter touch of the Tangerine or the heavier and more substantial feel of the Box Royal.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, we find that the Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Tangerine has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Tangerine switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Royal. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered to be the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who prefer faster response times. If you prioritize quick and responsive keystrokes, you may opt for the shorter travel distance offered by the Box Royal. On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer switches with a more substantial depth. In such cases, the TKC Tangerine, with its longer travel distance, would be a suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience you desire.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Royal 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 Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is best known for its sharp, binary tactility. It provides a nearly aggressive tactile feedback, making it perfect for those looking for a highly pronounced tactile bump. When it comes to sound, the Box Royal has a relatively higher pitched profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch offers an incredibly smooth feel. Each keystroke is a pleasure to type with these switches, thanks to the UHWMPE housings, which are a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. In terms of sound, the Tangerine switch also has a high-pitched clack when typing on them.
In conclusion, the Box Royal and Tangerine switches differ in their tactile feedback and smoothness of the keystroke. The Box Royal offers a sharp and binary tactility, while the Tangerine provides a frictionless, buttery, and polished typing experience. Both switches have a high-pitched sound profile. If you prefer a highly tactile and sharp experience, the Box Royal is the way to go. If you value a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Tangerine is a great option. The choice ultimately depends on personal preference and the overall desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're someone who enjoys an aggressive and sharp tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches offer a nearly aggressive tactility that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Additionally, the higher-pitched sound profile adds to the overall experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is the way to go. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches provide an incredibly smooth feel to each keystroke, thanks to the UHWMPE housings. The frictionless, buttery, and polished qualities of the switch contribute to a fluid and seamless typing sensation.
Both switches have a high-pitched sound profile, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. So, if you prefer a sound profile that is not rich and bassy, either option would be suitable.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Box Royal and TKC Tangerine switches depends on your preference for tactility and typing experience. Whether you prioritize sharp and aggressive tactility or a smooth and effortless typing feel, both switches offer their unique qualities to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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