The world of gaming keyboards has seen a significant surge in recent years, with various switch types emerging to cater to different preferences and needs. Among these, Tangerine switches have gained popularity for their unique characteristics and performance. But are Tangerine switches good for gaming? In this article, we will delve into the details of Tangerine switches, their features, and how they fare in the gaming landscape.
Introduction to Tangerine Switches
Tangerine switches are a type of mechanical switch designed for keyboards, offering a distinct tactile and auditory experience. They are known for their smooth and linear actuation, which sets them apart from other switch types like Cherry MX or Kailh. The Tangerine switch’s design aims to provide a consistent and precise keystroke, making them appealing to gamers and typists alike.
Key Features of Tangerine Switches
To understand whether Tangerine switches are good for gaming, it’s essential to explore their key features:
Tangerine switches boast a short actuation distance of about 1.5mm, which is significantly shorter than many other switches on the market. This short distance allows for faster actuation and can potentially improve gaming performance. Additionally, Tangerine switches have a light actuation force of around 40g, making them suitable for gamers who prefer a lighter touch. The switches also feature a self-cleaning contact system, which helps to prevent dust and debris from accumulating and affecting switch performance.
Sound and Feel
The sound and feel of Tangerine switches are often described as smooth and muted. They produce a subdued clicking sound upon actuation, which may appeal to gamers who prefer a quieter typing experience. The linear actuation of Tangerine switches provides a consistent feel across the keyboard, allowing gamers to focus on their gameplay without distractions.
Gaming Performance with Tangerine Switches
When it comes to gaming, the performance of Tangerine switches is a crucial factor. Several aspects contribute to their gaming performance, including actuation speed, accuracy, and durability. The short actuation distance and light actuation force of Tangerine switches enable fast and precise keystrokes, which can be beneficial for games that require quick reflexes and accurate input. Furthermore, the consistent feel of Tangerine switches helps gamers to develop muscle memory and improve their overall gaming performance.
Comparison with Other Switch Types
To better understand the gaming performance of Tangerine switches, it’s helpful to compare them with other popular switch types:
A comparison with Cherry MX switches, for example, reveals that Tangerine switches have a shorter actuation distance and lighter actuation force. This can make them more suitable for games that require fast and precise input, such as first-person shooters or fighting games. On the other hand, Kailh switches are known for their higher actuation force and more pronounced tactile bump, which may appeal to gamers who prefer a more defined typing experience.
Switch Type Comparison Table
| Switch Type | Actuation Distance | Actuation Force |
|---|---|---|
| Tangerine | 1.5mm | 40g |
| Cherry MX | 2mm | 45g |
| Kailh | 2.2mm | 50g |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tangerine switches can be an excellent choice for gaming due to their short actuation distance, light actuation force, and consistent feel. While they may not be the best fit for every gamer, they offer a unique combination of features that can enhance gaming performance. Ultimately, the decision to use Tangerine switches for gaming depends on individual preferences and needs. Gamers who value speed, precision, and a smooth typing experience may find Tangerine switches to be an ideal choice.
Final Thoughts
As the gaming keyboard market continues to evolve, it’s essential to consider the various switch types available and their characteristics. Tangerine switches, with their distinct features and performance, are definitely worth considering for gamers who seek a high-quality typing experience. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of Tangerine switches, gamers can make informed decisions and choose the best switch type for their gaming needs. Whether you’re a professional gamer or a casual player, Tangerine switches are certainly worth exploring as a potential option for your gaming keyboard.
What are Tangerine switches and how do they differ from other switch types?
Tangerine switches are a type of linear switch designed for gaming keyboards, known for their smooth and quiet operation. They are manufactured by a company called Gateron, which is a well-established brand in the keyboard switch market. Tangerine switches have a unique design that sets them apart from other switch types, such as Cherry MX or Kailh switches. They have a shorter actuation distance and a lighter actuation force, which makes them suitable for gamers who prefer a fast and responsive typing experience.
The main difference between Tangerine switches and other switch types is their sound and feel. Tangerine switches are designed to be quiet and smooth, with a subtle bump at the actuation point. They are also more resistant to dust and debris, which makes them a good choice for gamers who use their keyboards in a variety of environments. In comparison, Cherry MX switches are known for their tactile bump and audible click, while Kailh switches are known for their smooth and linear feel. Overall, Tangerine switches offer a unique combination of speed, quietness, and durability that makes them a popular choice among gamers.
Are Tangerine switches suitable for gaming and why?
Tangerine switches are well-suited for gaming due to their fast and responsive operation. They have a short actuation distance of 1.5mm and a light actuation force of 45g, which makes them ideal for gamers who need to press keys quickly and accurately. The smooth and linear feel of Tangerine switches also reduces finger fatigue and allows for more precise control over in-game movements. Additionally, the quiet operation of Tangerine switches can help gamers focus on their gameplay without distractions.
The suitability of Tangerine switches for gaming also depends on the type of game being played. For example, in fast-paced games such as first-person shooters or fighting games, Tangerine switches can provide a competitive edge due to their speed and responsiveness. In games that require more precise control, such as strategy or simulation games, Tangerine switches can provide a smooth and accurate typing experience. Overall, Tangerine switches are a good choice for gamers who value speed, accuracy, and quietness in their keyboard switches.
How do Tangerine switches compare to Cherry MX switches in terms of performance?
Tangerine switches and Cherry MX switches are both high-quality switch types that offer excellent performance for gaming and typing. However, they have some key differences in terms of their sound, feel, and actuation characteristics. Cherry MX switches are known for their tactile bump and audible click, which can be beneficial for gamers who prefer a more pronounced feedback. In contrast, Tangerine switches are designed to be quiet and smooth, with a subtle bump at the actuation point. In terms of performance, both switch types are highly responsive and accurate, but Tangerine switches may have a slight edge in terms of speed due to their shorter actuation distance.
The comparison between Tangerine switches and Cherry MX switches ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some gamers may prefer the tactile bump and audible click of Cherry MX switches, while others may prefer the smooth and quiet operation of Tangerine switches. In terms of durability, both switch types are highly resistant to wear and tear, with a lifespan of up to 50 million keystrokes. Overall, Tangerine switches and Cherry MX switches are both excellent choices for gamers, and the choice between them will depend on individual preferences and needs.
Can Tangerine switches be used for typing and office work?
Yes, Tangerine switches can be used for typing and office work due to their smooth and quiet operation. They are designed to be highly responsive and accurate, which makes them suitable for a variety of tasks such as writing, editing, and data entry. The light actuation force and short actuation distance of Tangerine switches can also reduce finger fatigue and improve typing speed. Additionally, the quiet operation of Tangerine switches can be beneficial in office environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
The suitability of Tangerine switches for typing and office work also depends on individual preferences and typing styles. Some typists may prefer the tactile bump and audible click of other switch types, while others may prefer the smooth and quiet operation of Tangerine switches. In general, Tangerine switches are a good choice for typists who value speed, accuracy, and quietness in their keyboard switches. They are also a good choice for office workers who need to type for extended periods of time and want to reduce finger fatigue and improve their overall typing experience.
Are Tangerine switches durable and long-lasting?
Yes, Tangerine switches are highly durable and long-lasting due to their robust design and high-quality materials. They are rated for up to 50 million keystrokes, which is comparable to other high-end switch types such as Cherry MX and Kailh. The switches are also resistant to dust and debris, which can help to extend their lifespan and prevent malfunction. Additionally, the smooth and quiet operation of Tangerine switches can reduce wear and tear on the switches over time, which can help to extend their lifespan.
The durability of Tangerine switches is also due to their simple and compact design. They have fewer moving parts than other switch types, which reduces the risk of mechanical failure and makes them easier to clean and maintain. Overall, Tangerine switches are a good choice for gamers and typists who want a reliable and long-lasting keyboard switch that can withstand heavy use. They are also a good choice for users who want to minimize downtime and reduce the need for maintenance and repair.
Can Tangerine switches be customized or modified for specific gaming needs?
Yes, Tangerine switches can be customized or modified for specific gaming needs. They are compatible with a variety of keyboard customization options, such as keycap sets and switch lubricants, which can enhance their performance and feel. Additionally, some keyboard manufacturers offer customization options for Tangerine switches, such as adjustable actuation force and customizable backlighting. Gamers can also modify their Tangerine switches themselves by applying switch lubricants or replacing the switch stems with custom-designed stems.
The customization options for Tangerine switches can be beneficial for gamers who want to optimize their keyboard for specific games or playstyles. For example, gamers who play games that require rapid key presses may want to adjust the actuation force of their Tangerine switches to make them more responsive. Similarly, gamers who play games that require precise control may want to apply switch lubricants to reduce friction and improve the smoothness of their Tangerine switches. Overall, the customization options for Tangerine switches make them a versatile and adaptable choice for gamers who want to optimize their keyboard for their specific needs.
Are Tangerine switches compatible with a variety of keyboard brands and models?
Yes, Tangerine switches are compatible with a variety of keyboard brands and models. They are designed to be a drop-in replacement for other switch types, such as Cherry MX and Kailh, which makes them easy to install and use. Tangerine switches are also compatible with a range of keyboard PCBs (printed circuit boards) and plate designs, which makes them a versatile choice for keyboard enthusiasts. Additionally, some keyboard manufacturers offer Tangerine switches as a standard option on their keyboards, which can make it easy to find a keyboard that meets specific needs and preferences.
The compatibility of Tangerine switches with a variety of keyboard brands and models is due to their standard stem design and PCB mounting pattern. This makes it easy to swap out other switch types for Tangerine switches, or to install Tangerine switches on a custom-built keyboard. Overall, the compatibility of Tangerine switches with a range of keyboard brands and models makes them a good choice for gamers and typists who want a versatile and adaptable keyboard switch that can be used with a variety of keyboards and configurations.