Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Kailh Box White V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Kailh Box White V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly influence your typing experience, and two popular options are the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Kailh Box White V2. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is celebrated for its light touch and distinct tactile feedback, providing a "clacky" and "marbly" sound profile that many users find delightful. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike who desire a responsive key feel with a hint of auditory satisfaction. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 switches lean towards a more traditional clicky experience, offering sharp tactile feedback coupled with a pronounced click sound that many users enjoy for both typing and gaming. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is favored for its polished and bouncy characteristics, the Box White V2 appeals to those who relish the nostalgic sound and sensation of a classic clicky switch. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Kailh Box White V2, we find that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which brings notable similarities in their sound profiles. The polycarbonate material is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffness. This characteristic ensures that both switches deliver a resonant auditory experience, particularly when utilized in setups designed for RGB lighting, as their clear housings allow the light to shine through effectively. Therefore, users can expect a consistent sharpness in sound when typing on either switch, enhancing clarity and vibrancy during use.
Conversely, the bottom housings of these two switches contrast significantly, as both switches feature nylon material. Nylon, being a softer and more absorbent plastic compared to polycarbonate, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference plays a crucial role in the overall acoustic experience when using the switches. While the top housing of both switches creates a bright sound when releasing a key, the nylon bottom housing is responsible for a more muted and rounded sound upon bottoming out. Thus, although the top housings promote clarity, the nylon bottoms work to soften and enrich the auditory response during a key press, resulting in a satisfying and contrasting typing experience.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch leads to a blended tactile and auditory performance. With polycarbonate on top, users benefit from a crisper sound, while the nylon on the bottom provides depth and warmth. For users looking for a more dynamic typing experience, the interplay between the two differing materials results in a balance where the sound and feel of both switches can be similar, particularly in the sharper tonal quality, while still delivering unique characteristics inherent to each design. This combination allows enthusiasts to appreciate both the precise auditory clarity of the polycarbonate and the rich sound dampening of the nylon in their respective contexts.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch present distinct choices in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that may be favored by users who prefer a firmer touch. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 has a lighter actuation force of only 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an appealing option for those who appreciate a lighter key feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. Therefore, when comparing the two, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is the heavier switch, while the Box White V2 is the lighter alternative. This difference in weight makes each switch suitable for different preferences and use cases, catering to either those who seek a robust push or those who value ease of use over long periods.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you're looking for a switch that provides a quicker response time, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is the better choice with its shorter travel distance. Conversely, the Kailh Box White V2, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced actuation and a deeper feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, opting for the Baby Kangaroo means a faster and more responsive experience, while the Kailh Box White offers a more traditional typing experience with a bit more travel under the fingers.
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 White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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) switches produce a distinct and engaging auditory experience. Their sound profile can be characterized as clacky and marbly, providing a sharp, snappy tone that is also high-pitched and resonant. This combination leads to an immersive typing experience, reminiscent of tapping on a solid marble, offering both clarity and brightness in sound. On the other hand, while the Kailh Box White V2 switches are known for their crisp click sound, specific descriptors of their sound have not been provided. However, one can expect a pronounced auditory feedback typical of clicky switches, making them equally enjoyable for those who appreciate a clear, attention-grabbing sound when typing.
In terms of tactile feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) excels with multiple descriptors such as snappy, bouncy, and polished. These qualities contribute to a responsive typing experience, with the longer or dual-staged springs giving a lively and engaging feeling as the keys are actuated. The polished finish ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction, allowing for a satisfying and refined experience. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 also offers tactile feedback, although specific aspects of its feel have not been detailed. Generally, clicky switches like the Box White V2 provide their own form of tactile response, but the vivid descriptors of the Baby Kangaroo suggest a more dynamic feel.
In conclusion, both switches offer unique qualities with respect to sound and feel, appealing to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out with its lively sound profile and engaging tactile response, while the Kailh Box White V2 is recognized for its distinct click sound and typical tactile feedback of clicky switches. While sound characteristics can be subjective and influenced by keyboard and keycap choice, the palpable sensations provided by the Baby Kangaroo switches make them an attractive option for those seeking a more vibrant typing experience. Overall, your choice may depend on whether you prefer the marbly, lively characteristics of the Baby Kangaroo or the solid, clear clicks of the Box White V2.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a medium-heavy feel with a unique sound profile that combines crispness and a bit of a marbly essence, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) might be your best bet. Its snappy and bouncy response can make typing feel lively and engaging, making it a great choice for both gaming and prolonged typing sessions. Conversely, if you lean toward a lighter touch with an emphatic click that provides clear auditory feedback, the Kailh Box White V2 could be more suited for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force ensures less effort per keystroke, which can be advantageous for fast typers or those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience. In essence, your decision should reflect whether you value a heavier, nuanced tactile experience or a light, clicky feedback that enhances your typing rhythm.
Mentioned in this article
