Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Durock Blue Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Durock Blue Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a plethora of options available. Two switches that stand out in terms of their unique features and qualities are the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Durock Blue Lotus, both falling under the tactile switch category. The Baby Kangaroo switch is renowned for its crisp, light tactility and distinctive marbley sound profile, creating a truly enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Blue Lotus switch by Durock offers a remarkable blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. With its slightly reduced travel distance and detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, this switch combines performance with captivating visual appeal. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Durock Blue Lotus differ in terms of their composition. The Baby Kangaroo features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Blue Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel. While both materials have a translucent quality suitable for RGB lighting, the Baby Kangaroo's polycarbonate offers a clearer and more resonant sound, whereas the Blue Lotus's modified blend provides a distinct tactile sensation.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches incorporate nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is renowned as a classic switch housing material, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its relatively softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This holds true for both the Baby Kangaroo and the Blue Lotus, as their nylon bottom housing contributes to a similar acoustic experience, providing a satisfying typing sound and feel.
Given that the top and bottom housings differ for these switches, it is important to consider their impact on sound and feel. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become apparent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deep and full sound profile, offering a more cushioned typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Kangaroo produces a sharper sound upon key release, while the modified PC and UPE Blend top housing of the Blue Lotus delivers a premium and tactile sensation as keys are let go.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Durock Blue Lotus differ in terms of their top housing, the results are ultimately comparable. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with nylon bottom housings contributing to a deep and full sound profile, and top housings providing distinct sound and feel characteristics. Whether it be the crispness of the polycarbonate top housing or the premium feel of the modified blend, both switches excel in delivering an enjoyable and immersive typing experience.
Weight
When considering the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch, it is apparent that both switches share a similar weight range. The Baby Kangaroo has a slightly higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Blue Lotus's 55 grams. Similarly, the Baby Kangaroo has a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Blue Lotus has a bottom out force of 65 grams. These weights fall into the medium-heavy category for both switches, providing a substantial typing experience.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Blue Lotus may be a better option as it requires a slightly lower actuation force. This can allow for prolonged typing sessions, making it suitable for situations such as work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Baby Kangaroo, as it offers a slightly higher actuation and bottom out force. This can provide a more robust typing experience, adding a sense of satisfaction with each keystroke.
Overall, while there are slight variations in the actuation and bottom out forces between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Durock Blue Lotus, both switches offer a similar weight range. Depending on individual preferences, one may be more inclined to choose the lighter option for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier option for a more substantial typing experience. Either way, both switches provide a satisfying tactile feel for keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is 3.7 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Gateron Baby Kangaroo with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper and more pronounced key press may lean towards the Durock Blue Lotus with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness. It is important to consider how the switch's travel distance will contribute to the overall typing or gaming experience.
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 Durock Blue Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Lotus for $4.57.
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 Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch offers a distinctive experience. It is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be characterized as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, it is known for its marbly sound profile, which is resonant, high-pitched, and clean, similar to tapping on a piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is known for its bassy sound profile. It offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, with a lower frequency range resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It's worth noting that the sound of a switch can also vary depending on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch provides a snappy and bouncy typing experience. The snappiness of these switches can be attributed to longer or dual-staged springs, which lend a responsive and lively feel to typing. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. This is achieved through the use of quality materials and potential factory lubing, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. Conversely, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is often described as accented, falling into the category of medium tactile switches. It provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. It shares the snappy characteristic with the Baby Kangaroo, as well as having a stepped feel, meaning it has pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations that feel more mild compared to switches with a big bump throughout the keystroke.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and Durock Blue Lotus tactile switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo switch produces a clacky and marbly sound profile, with a higher-pitched and resonant sound. Its feel is snappy, bouncy, and polished, offering a responsive and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Blue Lotus switch delivers a bassy sound profile, while its feel is described as accented, snappy, and stepped. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience. However, it's important to consider other factors such as personal preferences, keyboard board, and keycap choices to achieve the desired result.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with a crisp, light tactility and a marbley sound profile, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo is a great choice. It offers a clacky and marbly sound, which can be described as sharp, snappy, and high-pitched. In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo is snappy, bouncy, and polished, providing a super responsive and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a marked tactile feel, swift responsiveness, and vibrant RGB illumination, the Durock Blue Lotus is the way to go. Its slightly reduced travel and accented tactility make it perfect for those who enjoy a prominent yet not overwhelming tactile experience. The Blue Lotus switch has a bassy sound profile, delivering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Additionally, it shares the snappy feel with the Baby Kangaroo, making your typing experience feel more alive. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Durock Blue Lotus will depend on your preferred bottom-out force, sound profile, and desired tactile experience.
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