Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Kailh Box Mute Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Kailh Box Mute Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are super excited to be offering these two unique mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Kailh Box Mute Jade. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a tactile switch that provides a crisp, light switch-like tactility and a marbley sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo is the switch for you. It falls under the categories of 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'High-pitched', 'Resonant', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, if you prefer the crunchy feel of a clicky switch with a more subdued sound profile, the Box Mute Jade is the perfect choice. It offers a slight bump and a quieter, yet unmistakably clicky, sound signature. The Box Mute Jade is categorized as 'Accented', 'Crunchy', 'Stiff', and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that matches your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
75g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Kailh Box Mute Jade both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will offer similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic appeal.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Baby Kangaroo employs nylon while the Box Mute Jade also utilizes nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when pressing the keys. Both switches will deliver this characteristic sound, providing a satisfying typing experience.
It is worth noting that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that despite having different materials for the top and bottom housings, users can still expect similar results in terms of sound quality and typing experience from the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Kailh Box Mute Jade.
Weight
When it comes to comparing and contrasting the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch, it is evident that there are some notable differences. The Baby Kangaroo has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke, but it requires a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams, requiring a stronger push to initiate a keystroke, and an even heavier bottom out force of 82 grams. This makes it suitable for those who prefer a more robust typing experience.
Weight is an important consideration when choosing a switch as it can significantly impact the typing experience. Some individuals prefer a lighter weight switch like the Baby Kangaroo as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, others may prefer the heavier force provided by the Box Mute Jade as it offers a more substantial keystroke feel.
In terms of similarities, both switches require a significant amount of force for both actuation and bottom out. While the Gateron Baby Kangaroo is lighter in both aspects compared to the Kailh Box Mute Jade, they both fall under the medium-heavy to heavy range in terms of force required. Therefore, for those who enjoy a satisfying and tactile typing experience, both switches can deliver similar results despite their varying force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch, it is evident that there is a slight difference between the two. The Baby Kangaroo has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Box Mute Jade has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, both switches fall within the range of what is considered standard. However, with the increasing popularity of shorter travel distances, the Baby Kangaroo may appeal more to those seeking faster response times, as it offers a slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade provides a touch of added depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50 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 Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch is favored for its crisp, light tactility and unique sound profile. When using these switches, users experience a distinct marble-like sound, which is clean, resonant, and high-pitched. The clacky nature of these switches produces a sharp and snappy sound, similar to the sound of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or two billiard balls colliding. The high-pitched and resonant qualities of the Baby Kangaroo switches contribute to a clean, sharp sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience.
In contrast, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers a different set of qualities. These switches are known for their crunchiness and subdued sound profile. Users who prefer the tactile feedback of a clicky switch but desire a quieter sound will find the Box Mute Jade switches to be a perfect fit. When using these switches, a slight bump can be felt, accompanied by a clicky sound that is recognizable but less pronounced. Although the exact sound descriptors for these switches are not provided, they are characterized by a crunchy sensation, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and Kailh Box Mute Jade switches offer contrasting subjective qualities. The Baby Kangaroo switches provide a crisp, light tactility with a distinctive marbley sound profile that is clean, resonant, and high-pitched. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade switches deliver a crunchy feel and subdued clicky sound. Both switches offer a polished typing experience due to their smooth and refined finishes, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
If you are seeking a tactile switch with a lively feel and vibrant sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switches would be an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a tactile experience with a more subdued and crunchy sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switches would suit your preferences. It is important to note that the final sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Nonetheless, by considering the provided information, one can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel when using these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a crisp, light tactility and a marbley sound profile, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch is the perfect choice for you. These switches offer a snappy and bouncy feel, resulting in a responsive and lively typing experience. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, they provide just the right amount of resistance. The sound produced by the Baby Kangaroo switches is clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant, creating a clean and immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a crunchy feel and a more subdued sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 82 grams, these switches require more force to actuate and bottom out. The Box Mute Jade switches offer an accented and polished feel, delivering a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The sound produced is clicky and reminiscent of stepping on piles of crispy autumn leaves. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and typing experience.
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