SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo, brings about an interesting comparison between linear and tactile switches. The Ayara, a linear switch, is highly regarded for its medium heftiness, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a satisfying typing experience. With a soft and clacky sound profile, these switches provide a distinctive bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo, a tactile switch, offers a completely different experience. Renowned for its crisp and light tactility, using these switches feels akin to typing on a high-quality mechanical switch. The sound profile of the Baby Kangaroo is described as marbley, adding a unique touch to each keystroke. While these generalities provide a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, delving deeper into their specific attributes will help you make an informed decision on which one suits your typing preferences best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo differ in terms of their composition. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that provides a clear and resonant sound. The aesthetic advantage of polycarbonate is its translucency, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Ayara and the Baby Kangaroo opt for nylon. This classic switch housing material offers similar characteristics for both switches. Nylon's softness allows for enhanced sound absorption, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a result, both switches create a more rounded and subdued sound.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Ayara and the Baby Kangaroo affect different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the sensation when pressing down on a key. Meanwhile, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. This means that despite the differences in nylon and polycarbonate, the overall typing experience, in terms of the sound and feel, can still be achieved with either switch.
In summary, the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo differ in their top housing materials, with the Ayara utilizing nylon and the Baby Kangaroo incorporating polycarbonate. This leads to distinct sound profiles, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound in the Ayara, while polycarbonate provides a sharper and crisper sound in the Baby Kangaroo. However, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound experience. Additionally, the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing influences the sensation when pressing down on a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Ayara switch has an actuation force that is currently unavailable in grams, while the Baby Kangaroo switch has an actuation force of 59 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Ayara measuring at 62 grams and the Baby Kangaroo at a slightly heavier 67 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ayara switch would be a suitable choice, as it has a lower actuation force compared to the Baby Kangaroo switch. This lighter actuation force allows for easier triggering of keystrokes and may be ideal for individuals who type for longer periods, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Baby Kangaroo switch would be a better option, as it has a slightly heavier actuation force.
It's important to note that both switches have a medium bottom out force, which means that the force required to fully press the keys is similar between the two. This means that even though the actuation forces may differ, the overall typing experience in terms of bottoming out will be similar for both switches.
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch will depend on personal preference. Individuals who prioritize a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ayara switch, while those seeking a stronger push feel may prefer the Baby Kangaroo switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch, it is clear that there is a difference in their distances. The Ayara has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which is considered to be the most traditional length. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm.
This difference in travel distance can have an impact on the typing experience. Gamers, who value faster response times, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances. The 3.4 mm distance of the Baby Kangaroo would cater well to their needs. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke and find short travel distances to be too abrupt, the Ayara's 4.0 mm travel distance might be the more suitable choice.
It is important to note that while the travel distances of these switches differ, they both fall within the range of what is commonly used and available. Therefore, regardless of whether one chooses the Ayara or the Baby Kangaroo, the overall typing experience would still be relatively similar and satisfying. The decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Ayara has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ayara for $5.40.
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
When it comes to sound, the Ayara switch offers a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo switch has a clacky and marbly sound profile. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, similar to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. Both switches are described as high-pitched, providing a crisp and sharp sound. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the choice of the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This is due to the materials used and/or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Baby Kangaroo switch, on the other hand, is characterized as snappy and bouncy. It is super responsive, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. It also provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Both switches are described as polished, ensuring a sleek and seamless typing experience.
Based on the available information, the Ayara switch is best suited for those who prefer a hearty typing experience, thanks to its medium heftiness and soft bottom-out feel. It offers a perfectly clacky sound profile and a polished feel. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo switch provides a crisp, light switch-like tactility and a marbley sound profile. It is described as snappy, bouncy, and polished. Both switches offer high-pitched sound profiles.
In conclusion, while the Ayara and Baby Kangaroo switches differ in their sound and feel characteristics, they both provide unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. The Ayara switch delivers a medium heftiness, soft bottom-out feel, clacky sound, and polished feel, while the Baby Kangaroo switch offers a crisp, light tactility, marbley sound, snappy and bouncy feel, and polished finish. Depending on your preference for typing experience and sound profile, either switch can provide satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience and enjoy a soft bottom-out feel with a clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switches are the perfect choice for you. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches offer a medium heftness that complements a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a crisp, light switch-like tactility and a marbley sound profile, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switches are a great option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches provide a medium-heavy feel that adds to the overall typing experience. Additionally, if you value a polished switch with reduced friction and smooth key travel, both the Ayara and the Baby Kangaroo switches offer a sleek typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches boils down to personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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