Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. TTC Brother
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the TTC Brother switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch presents an interesting dilemma. The Baby Kangaroo offers a unique tactile experience with a crisp and light tactility, accompanied by a distinctive marbly sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Brother stands out for its lightweight nature and pleasingly crunchy sound signature, providing a satisfying click with each keystroke. While the Baby Kangaroo is described as 'clacky', 'marbly', and 'high-pitched', the Brother is characterized as 'crunchy', 'easy-to-press', and 'stepped'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, so ultimately, the choice between them depends on personal preference and specific typing needs. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
17.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the TTC Brother, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, both switches also have nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Despite these similarities, the split between top and bottom housing materials can affect how each switch feels and sounds during typing.
While the polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Brother share similar characteristics in terms of sound profile and stiffness, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a softer feel upon bottoming out the key, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This contrasts with the top housing's effect on the sound when releasing a key, emphasizing the split effects of the housing materials. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound from the polycarbonate top housing or a deeper, fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing may influence your preference between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the TTC Brother ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, offering a similar sharp and resonant sound profile, the variations in their nylon bottom housings affect the overall typing experience. Whether you favor a softer, fuller feel with the nylon bottom housing or a sharper, crisper sound with the polycarbonate top housing, understanding how the different housing materials contribute to the switch's acoustics and feel can help you make an informed decision based on your preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch, it is evident that the Brother switch is significantly lighter in both aspects. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) requires a medium-heavy actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Brother switch has a much lighter actuation force of 37 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. This makes the Brother switch more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch and smoother typing experience. For users seeking a switch with a heavier push feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the TTC Brother clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Gamers may particularly appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) for faster response times. However, those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the TTC Brother clicky switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their relatively close travel distances.
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 TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its clacky and marbly sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound with resonant, high-pitched tones. On the other hand, the TTC Brother clicky switch is renowned for its crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Baby Kangaroo delivering a crisp and bright tone, while the Brother provides a satisfyingly crisp and precise click.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is characterized by its snappy and bouncy feedback, offering a responsive and lively typing experience. The polished finish of the switch ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction, further enhancing the typing feel. In contrast, the TTC Brother clicky switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and promoting effortless typing. The stepped tactile feedback of the Brother switch provides a mild tactile sensation with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch excels in providing a unique combination of crisp tactility and marbly sound profile, making it a popular choice for users seeking a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Brother clicky switch stands out for its lightweight actuation and satisfyingly crunchy sound, appealing to clicky switch enthusiasts. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer their own set of qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, users can expect a high level of performance and satisfaction from either switch, with the Gateron Baby Kangaroo offering a more tactile experience, while the TTC Brother provides a distinctive clicky feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch or the TTC Brother clicky switch, you should take into account your preference for switch characteristics. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and appreciate a tactile switch with a crisp, light tactility and a marbly sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force with a clicky switch that delivers a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, then the TTC Brother clicky switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you want to achieve.
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