Cherry Nixie vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Cherry Nixie and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, you have two excellent options with distinct characteristics to consider. The Cherry Nixie is a revered classic in the keyboard community, known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience thanks to the updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine stands out for its incredibly smooth feel and pleasurable typing experience, attributed in part to the UHWMPE housings that are rare in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. While the Nixie offers a 'thocky' and low-pitched typing experience, the Tangerine provides a 'buttery' and high-pitched feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
63.5g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Cherry Nixie and TKC Tangerine both have unique top and bottom housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Nixie utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Tangerine features UHWMPE top and bottom housings, offering a brighter sound signature with resonant clacks. This newer material provides a different typing experience compared to the classic nylon housing of the Nixie.
One key difference between the Cherry Nixie and TKC Tangerine is the material used for their top housing. While the Nixie employs nylon for the top housing, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE. Nylon is known for its softer properties that absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, UHWMPE provides a brighter sound signature with resonant clacks, adding a unique touch to the typing experience. Despite their differences, both housing materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches in their own distinct ways.
When comparing the bottom housing of the Cherry Nixie and TKC Tangerine, both switches use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that the qualities associated with nylon, such as a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, will be consistent across both switches when bottoming out keys. However, the impact of the top housing material, whether nylon or UHWMPE, will be more noticeable when releasing a key. This showcases how the different housing materials of the switches play a role in the overall typing experience and sound output.
Weight
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a higher actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the TKC Tangerine switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Nixie is also heavier at 80 grams, while the Tangerine has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Nixie requires a heavier touch both to trigger a keystroke and to press the key all the way down, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine offers a lighter actuation force and bottom out force, which may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be said that they offer a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels when pressed. This means that whether you choose the Cherry Nixie or the TKC Tangerine, you can expect to get a comparable feel and feedback in terms of key travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between these switches can provide a consistent typing experience for users, making them both reliable options for those looking for linear switches with a 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.15.
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 Cherry Nixie switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch offers a high-pitched and sharp sound when pressed, appealing to those who prefer a crisper tone. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Nixie offering a more bass-heavy sound while the Tangerine delivers a sharper auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is characterized by its textured typing experience, providing noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine switch is known for its frictionless and buttery feel, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. Additionally, the Tangerine switch is described as polished, indicating a refined finish that enhances the overall typing sensation. Whether you prefer a textured or frictionless feel will depend on your personal typing preferences.
Taking into account the sound and feel characteristics of the Cherry Nixie and TKC Tangerine switches, it is evident that they offer distinct typing experiences. While the Nixie provides a thocky and low-pitched sound with a textured feel, the Tangerine offers a high-pitched sound with a frictionless and polished feel. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities, making them suitable for different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you value a deeper, bass-heavy sound and textured feel or a crisper, high-pitched sound and frictionless typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound, the Nixie may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smoother and lighter keystroke with a high-pitched sound and a frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, the Tangerine could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and force required for key presses. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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