Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Kailh Berry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Kailh Berry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are super excited to be offering two incredible mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics: the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Kailh Berry. When it comes to the Baby Kangaroo, users can expect a crisp and light tactile switch with a unique marbley sound profile. This switch is often described as clacky, marbly, high-pitched, resonant, snappy, bouncy, and polished. On the other hand, the Berry is famous for its linear switch design, providing a hefty typing experience. Typists will appreciate the springy feel and the chalk-like texture that accompanies each keystroke. Additionally, the Berry switch offers a sound profile that leans towards being deep and textured, with a low-pitched and bassy tone. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Kailh Berry switches both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice enhances the sound profile of both switches, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate also contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics when using either the Gateron Baby Kangaroo or the Kailh Berry switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches opt for nylon. Nylon provides a classic switch housing experience, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to its relatively softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either the Gateron Baby Kangaroo or the Kailh Berry switches.
It is worth noting that if a switch has different materials for the top and bottom housing, the qualities associated with each material are divided between the two parts of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have a more noticeable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction is important to consider when comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Kailh Berry switches, as the utilization of different housing materials may result in slight variations in sound and feel during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force of the Baby Kangaroo is 59 grams, while the Berry's actuation force is not provided. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 70 grams, which makes them both fall into the medium-heavy category.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Baby Kangaroo's actuation force more suitable, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. This lighter actuation force can be useful in work environments or during extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, individuals who appreciate a stronger push for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Kailh Berry switch. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, this switch provides a satisfying resistance and feedback, making each keystroke feel more deliberate and impactful.
Ultimately, the Baby Kangaroo is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Berry offers a heavier feel. Both switches, however, fall under the medium-heavy category for bottom out force, and will provide similar results in terms of typing experience in that regard.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch, we can see that there is a slight difference between the two. The Baby Kangaroo has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more common in keyboards nowadays. Gamers often opt for switches with shorter travel distances, as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the Baby Kangaroo switch with its shorter travel distance would be the better choice for you. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper and more satisfying key press, the Berry switch with its slightly longer travel distance might be more suitable for your needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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
The subjective qualities of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch differ in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of sound, the Baby Kangaroo switch is known for its clacky and marbly sound profile. The clacky sound is sharp and snappy, giving a crisp and bright auditory experience. Additionally, the marbly sound is resonant, high-pitched, and clean, reminiscent of tapping on a solid piece of marble or the collision of billiard balls. On the other hand, the Berry switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. It has a deeper and richer tone during key presses, characterized by a lower frequency range. Depending on personal preference, one may prefer the high-pitched and resonant sound of the Baby Kangaroo or the bass-heavy and mellow tone of the Berry switch.
Regarding feel, the Baby Kangaroo switch is known for its snappy, bouncy, and polished characteristics. The snappy nature of the switch indicates its super responsive and lively feel, achieved through longer or dual-staged springs. This responsiveness enhances the typing experience, making it feel more alive. Additionally, the bouncy quality provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation and offers rebound when keys are pressed. The polished switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Berry switch is described as providing a textured feel. This indicates noticeable friction when pressing the keys. While some users may prefer this subtle texture, others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch differ in their sound and feel qualities. The Baby Kangaroo offers a clacky and marbly sound profile with a snappy, bouncy, and polished feel, while the Berry switch provides a low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a textured feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, one can choose between these two switches to achieve the desired experience. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of switches can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps, so individual results may vary.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a light and crisp tactile feel, along with a marbley sound profile, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo is a great option for you. The Baby Kangaroo is known for its snappy and bouncy feel, providing a lively and responsive typing experience. The sound profile of the Baby Kangaroo is clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant, giving you a sharp and clean auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a heavier typing experience and a chalk-like texture, the Kailh Berry is the way to go. The Berry offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, which can provide a deeper and richer typing experience. However, it is important to note that the Berry switch is described as textured, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. Therefore, if you prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience, the Baby Kangaroo might be a better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel.
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