Gateron Oil King vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Oil King and the TKC Tangerine are two popular choices for mechanical keyboard switches. On one hand, the Oil King is highly regarded for its smoothness and its sound profile, which has been compared to the satisfying snap of a dark chocolate bar. With a categorization that includes terms like "buttery" and "creamy," it's no wonder that these switches have become a favorite among enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch offers a smooth feel that takes typing to the next level. Its unique UHWMPE housings set it apart from other switches in the market, providing an unparalleled typing experience. Although it does produce a distinctly higher-pitched clack when typing, this may be preferred by some users who enjoy a more satisfying sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and the TKC Tangerine differ in their housing materials, which in turn affects their sound profiles. The Oil King features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The nylon material, being softer and more absorbent of sound, produces a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE top housing, offering a bright sound signature and resonant clacks. The UHWMPE material lends itself to a vibrant and lively typing experience.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Oil King and the Tangerine have their unique characteristics. The Oil King incorporates Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. This blend brings a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Tangerine employs a UHWMPE bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This newer material also provides a very bright sound signature and resonant clacks.
Although the two switches differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles, they both offer satisfying typing experiences. The Oil King's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing provides a vibrant and bright sound. Similarly, the Oil King's INK blend bottom housing offers a clacky sound, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to resonant clacks. Overall, both switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences, albeit with different sound qualities based on their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, one noticeable difference is their actuation force. The Gateron Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the actuation force for the TKC Tangerine is unavailable. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Gateron Oil King having a bottom out force of 65 grams and the TKC Tangerine having a bottom out force of 62 grams. In terms of weight, the Gateron Oil King can be considered heavier due to its actuation force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine provides a medium typing experience, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter switch. Regardless, both switches offer the option for a satisfying typing experience, whether it be through a heavier or lighter force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Oil King and the TKC Tangerine linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel. The travel distance of a switch is an important factor when it comes to typing or gaming, as it affects the overall typing experience and responsiveness. With both switches having the same travel distance, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and feedback. However, it is worth noting that other factors such as actuation force and return force also play a role in the overall typing experience, and these may differ between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Oil King comes in at $6.50, 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. This means that the keystrokes produce a deeper and richer tone, similar to the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a high-pitched sound. The keystrokes produce a sharp and crisp sound, which may appeal to those who prefer a more vibrant and bright tone. 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. However, based on the provided information, the Oil King is more likely to provide a smoother and mellow sound, while the Tangerine offers a sharper and crisper tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Gateron Oil King and the TKC Tangerine are known for their smooth and effortless typing experiences. The Oil King is described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, resulting in a sleek and refined finish. These qualities allow for gliding fingers across the keys with ease, effortlessly melting into each keystroke. Similarly, the Tangerine switch is described as frictionless, buttery, and polished, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Both switches offer exceptionally smooth typing experiences with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Therefore, it can be inferred that the feel of the Oil King and Tangerine switches would be quite similar, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King and TKC Tangerine linear switches offer different sound profiles but share similar qualities in terms of feel. The Oil King provides a low-pitched and bassy sound, while the Tangerine offers a high-pitched sound. However, both switches are known for their smooth and effortless typing experiences, characterized by creamy, silky, buttery, and polished feel. Whether you prefer a sound with depth and richness or a sharp and crisp tone, both switches can deliver a pleasurable and smooth typing experience. Therefore, regardless of the sound preference, users can expect similar results in terms of feel when using the Oil King or Tangerine switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be a great choice. The Oil King offers a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, making each keystroke feel smooth and effortless. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a high-pitched sound profile, the TKC Tangerine linear switch would be an excellent option. The Tangerine provides a frictionless, buttery, and polished typing experience, ensuring minimal resistance and a sleek feel when pressing the keys. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your preference for sound and feel. Regardless of which switch you choose, both the Gateron Oil King and the TKC Tangerine will elevate your typing experience to new heights.
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