Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Akko Botany
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko Botany switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko Botany offer distinct tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is celebrated for its light, snappy tactility paired with a unique marbley sound profile, enhancing both the typing experience and auditory satisfaction. This switch is ideal for users who enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback without sacrificing responsiveness, making it an excellent choice for those who type frequently or engage in fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the Akko Botany stands out with its crisp and lively clacky sound, appealing to users who prioritize a vibrant acoustic signature while typing. This linear switch offers a smoother keystroke, perfect for those who prefer a quieter yet engaging experience. Both switches have their own unique advantages, guiding enthusiasts toward their ideal typing feel and sound. 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
59g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon Pro
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko Botany switches showcase distinctive acoustic profiles and tactile experiences due to their differing compositions. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) sports a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound when keys are released. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance, making it an appealing choice for enthusiasts who prioritize a crisp auditory feedback, particularly when enhanced with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Botany's top housing is made of nylon, a material recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a more muted, rounded acoustic quality that appeals to users seeking a smoother typing experience.
While the top housings of these two switches differ, their bottom housings are both constructed from nylon, ensuring a degree of consistency in sound and feel for the keypress itself. This means that regardless of the varying acoustic characteristics of their top housings, users will experience a deeper, fuller sound upon bottoming out their keys due to the softer nylon material in both cases. Thus, while the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) might provide a brighter sound when releasing the key due to its polycarbonate top, the similarity in bottom housings guarantees that the fundamental feel and sound upon actuation remain unified.
Ultimately, the contrast between the Baby Kangaroo (V2)'s polycarbonate top and nylon bottom with the Akko Botany's nylon top and bottom highlights the importance of housing materials in key switch performance. The characteristics imparted by each material shape the user experience, with the polycarbonate acting as a key enabler for sharp, staccato responses and the nylon delivering a plush, velvety feel. Consequently, while both switches share a common nylon bottom that nurtures a rich sound upon actuation, the variances in their top housings substantiate why users might select one over the other, depending on their personal sound preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch with the Akko Botany linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces are evident. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Botany switch is noticeably lighter, with an actuation force of just 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This lighter weight is advantageous for prolonged typing sessions, as it requires less effort to actuate the keys. Consequently, individuals looking for ease of use during extended periods may gravitate towards the Botany, while those who appreciate a sturdier tactile feel might opt for the Baby Kangaroo (V2). Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately hinges on individual preferences for typing force and experience—lighters switches like the Botany can provide comfort for long use, while the heavier Baby Kangaroo offers a more tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko Botany linear switch, there is a clear distinction, with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) having a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko Botany switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Baby Kangaroo the shorter option, appealing to those who enjoy quicker response times, such as gamers who favor shorter distances for enhanced speed. On the other hand, the Akko Botany's longer travel distance may be preferable for individuals who appreciate a more substantial feel and depth when typing. Therefore, if you're aiming for a more responsive experience, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) is the recommended choice, whereas those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback might opt for the Akko Botany.
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 Akko Botany has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Botany for $3.11.
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 (V2) offers a distinct auditory experience characterized by a crisp, lively clacky tone. This switch produces a high-pitched, sharp sound that is both percussive and resonant, delivering an immersive typing experience. The marbley sound profile enhances its overall appeal, making each keystroke enjoyable. In contrast, the Akko Botany linear switch also provides a lively auditory environment; however, specific details about its sound profile are less clear. It is implied that it may share qualities with the Baby Kangaroo in terms of offering a pleasant sound, but without further detail, a precise comparison remains elusive.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out with its snappy, bouncy response that adds an exciting dynamic to typing. The switch's dual-staged spring contributes to its responsive nature, allowing for a lively feedback sensation that makes each keystroke feel rewarding. Its polished quality ensures a smooth and refined typing experience, mitigating friction for easier key travel. The feel of the Akko Botany linear switch is not explicitly mentioned; therefore, we cannot draw direct comparisons in this area. It could possibly yield a smooth typing experience typical of linear switches, but without specific characteristics, one cannot confirm how it measures against the tactile feedback of the Baby Kangaroo.
In summary, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a crisp and resonant sound profile with a tactile, responsive feel that makes it stand out for those who enjoy an engaging typing experience. The specifics of the Akko Botany linear switch remain somewhat ambiguous in both sound and feel, leaving potential users to wonder how it stacks against the Baby Kangaroo. If you're drawn to the lively auditory experience and tactile responsiveness of the Baby Kangaroo, you may find similar satisfaction in the Botany, but confirmation would depend on further exploration of its qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko Botany linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the overall experience you wish to achieve. If you enjoy a more tactile feedback with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is an excellent option. Its snappy and bouncy feel, combined with a crisp and lively sound profile, makes it great for those who seek a more engaging typing experience, whether you're gaming or working. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a more straightforward, smooth typing experience, the Akko Botany linear switch will be more suitable. With its light bottom-out force, it allows for quick and effortless key presses, ideal for fast typists or those who value a quieter keyboard while still enjoying a clacky sound profile. In summary, consider the Baby Kangaroo if you want a satisfying tactile pushback, whereas the Botany is perfect for a fluid, light-touch experience.
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