Kailh Plum vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options worth considering are the Kailh Plum and the TKC Tangerine. The Plum is a tactile switch known for its unique combination of weightiness and a subtle tactile bump. Unlike other tactile switches that are often heavy, the Plum offers a satisfying typing experience without sacrificing its relatively neutral and enjoyable sound profile. On the other hand, the Tangerine is a linear switch that promises to elevate your typing experience with its incredibly smooth feel. This smoothness is attributed in part to the UHWMPE housings, a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. Typing on the Tangerine results in a high-pitched clack. Both switches have their distinctive qualities, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your personal preferences.
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 housing materials of the Kailh Plum and the TKC Tangerine switches have distinct characteristics that result in different sound profiles. The Plum features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE top housing, which produces a brighter and resonant clack when typing. Despite the differences, both materials offer the advantage of being transparent, enabling the use of RGB lighting.
In terms of bottom housings, the Plum employs a nylon material, known for its classic switch housing properties. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings lends itself to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon housing's relatively softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE bottom housing, contributing to its overall bright sound signature. This newer material offers resonant clacks, enhancing the typing experience.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it is essential to note that each material brings its unique qualities. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when it is pressed down, while the top housing has a more noticeable effect on the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in a switch determines the specific characteristics and sounds that users can expect.
In summary, the Kailh Plum and the TKC Tangerine differ in their housing materials and the resulting sound profiles. The Plum's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing offers a brighter and resonant clack. Similarly, the Plum's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing, which contributes to its bright sound signature. Despite the differences, both switches offer transparency for RGB lighting and highlight the importance of top and bottom housing materials in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is important to consider weight. Unfortunately, the specific actuation force of both switches is unavailable. However, the Plum has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which can be considered to be medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Tangerine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly lighter and falls into the medium range.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer periods of usage, the Tangerine switch may be a better option due to its slightly lower bottom out force. This would be ideal for individuals who use their keyboard extensively for work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel and the need for a stronger push may lean towards the Plum switch, with its medium-heavy bottom out force.
While the specific actuation force is unknown for both switches, it is important to note that actuation force indicates the force required to trigger a keystroke. In this case, since the actuation force is unavailable for both switches, it is likely that they will have similar results in terms of actuation. However, the difference in bottom out force, with the Tangerine being slightly lighter, may result in a difference in overall typing experience and feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that the Plum has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Tangerine has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Plum's travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it more suitable for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Tangerine's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference - whether one desires a more responsive and shallow travel distance or a hearty depth in the keypress sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Plum 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you use it at home or in a work setting. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a high-pitched clack when typing on it. This produces a sharp and crisp sound that some people may prefer if they do not like the richer and bassier sound profiles of certain switches. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a mild and stepped typing experience. The mild nature of the switch provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users, as its qualities fall within a safe and middle-ground zone. Additionally, the stepped characteristic of the switch means that it has two stages of tactility, providing some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is known for its frictionless, buttery, and polished feel. This means that the switch offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, thanks to its smooth and refined finish, as well as the use of materials or factory lubing to reduce friction and ensure smooth key travel.
Overall, the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Plum has a neutral sound profile, while the Tangerine has a high-pitched clack. In terms of feel, the Plum is mild and stepped, whereas the Tangerine is frictionless, buttery, and polished. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can choose between these two switches to enhance your typing experience. It is worth noting that while the qualities of these switches are distinct, you can achieve similar results by considering other factors such as keycaps and keyboard board choices.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, you should consider your preferences for weightiness, tactility, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique tactile profile, the Plum may be the best choice for you. Despite its weightiness, the Plum lacks a significant tactile bump and produces a neutral sound profile, which makes it suitable for various purposes and environments. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and pleasurable typing experience, the Tangerine linear switch may be the better option. With its UHWMPE housings, it provides frictionless and buttery typing sensations, resulting in effortless key presses. However, it is important to note that the Tangerine switch has a high-pitched sound, which might not appeal to those who prefer deeper, bassier profiles. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and desired typing experience.
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