Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) stand out as unique options with their own distinct characteristics. The Akashi is a linear switch that offers a smooth and resonant typing experience, thanks to its UPE stem and special POM top with a nylon bottom housing combo. Known for its bright and crisp bottom-out sound, the Akashi switch is perfect for those who value a polished and clacky typing feel. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is a tactile switch that provides a light and bouncy tactility along with a marbley sound profile. Ideal for users seeking a high-pitched and snappy typing experience, this switch is sure to stand out. 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
37g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) offer distinct characteristics that impact the sound and feel of the switches. The Akashi's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Baby Kangaroo (V2)'s polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound with a higher pitch. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the keyboard. In terms of the bottom housing, both switches use nylon which absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound profile during typing.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) share the use of nylon for their bottom housing. This commonality means that both switches will provide a similar deep and fuller sound profile during typing. However, the POM top housing of the Akashi will offer a more muted sound when releasing a key, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) will produce a clearer and sharper sound upon key release. This showcases how the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound signature of mechanical switches.
When comparing the impact of top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes evident that the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release. This means that the choice of housing materials can significantly alter the acoustics and tactile feedback of mechanical switches. Whether it be the softer touch of nylon in the bottom housing or the stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the top housing, each material brings its own unique characteristics to the switch, ultimately defining its sound profile and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch, it is evident that the Akashi is lighter, requiring only 37 grams for actuation and 43 grams for bottoming out. In contrast, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is heavier, with an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. The lighter actuation force of the Akashi may be preferred by users who value longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods, while the heavier force of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) appeals to those seeking a stronger push feel. Both switches serve their purpose well, with the Akashi offering a lighter touch and the Baby Kangaroo (V2) providing a more robust typing experience due to its heavier forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Baby Kangaroo being slightly shorter than the Akashi. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo, while those who prefer a more pronounced key press may lean towards the Akashi with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a more responsive typing experience overall.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Baby Kangaroo (V2) for $5.50.
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, both the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch are described as "clacky," producing sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. However, the Akashi switch offers a unique sound contrast due to its UPE stem and hybrid housing, resulting in a brighter and crisper bottom-out sound with deeper acoustic richness. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch provides a marbley sound profile, being resonant, high-pitched, and clean. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on the user's preference. Additionally, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is known for offering a "creamy," "frictionless," and "polished" typing experience, characterized by smooth and buttery sensations with minimal resistance or friction. This smoothness is attributed to the UPE stem and unique housing combination. Conversely, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is described as "snappy," "bouncy," and "polished," providing a super responsive feel with spring-like feedback and reduced friction for smooth key travel. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the Akashi switch focusing on a silky sensation while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch offers a more lively and rebounding feel.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch each have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi switch provides a resonant and bright sound profile along with a smooth and creamy typing experience, while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch offers a marbley sound and snappy tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. It is recommended to try out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a smooth, resonant typing experience with a unique sound profile, the Akashi linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and value a crisp, light tactile feedback along with a lively rebound sensation, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound aesthetics.
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