Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. HMX Caramel Pudding
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Caramel Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience. The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a tactile sensation with a crisp, light switch-like feedback that excites the fingers while delivering a unique marbley sound profile, making each keystroke feel both responsive and satisfying. Known for its clacky and high-pitched resonance, the Baby Kangaroo can be a great choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback and a dynamic auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches are characterized by their smooth feel and equally resonant, clacky sound, offering an uninterrupted typing experience that’s favored by those who prefer a linear switch. This switch emphasizes fluidity over tactility, appealing to gamers and typists seeking a seamless flow without the interruption of tactile bumps. Both switches have their merits depending on user preference for feedback 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
POM
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Caramel Pudding switches, a distinct contrast emerges in their top housings. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This rigidity contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that feels crisper during typing. Its clear nature also enhances RGB lighting effects, providing a visually appealing aspect for those who value aesthetics in their typing experience. In contrast, the Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, which is recognized for its softer characteristics. This ephemeral quality translates into a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller, rounder output. The choice of materials here highlights a fundamental difference — while the Baby Kangaroo leans towards a more vibrant auditory response, the Caramel Pudding favors a softer acoustic experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Caramel Pudding share a commonality in utilizing nylon. This shared material for the bottom housing results in a similar typing feel and sound profile, characterized by a deeper resonance. As nylon absorbs sound better than harder plastics, both switches will provide a rounder and fuller sound at the bottom-out level. Regardless of the differences in their top housing materials, the nylon bottom housings in both switches ensure that users experience a consistent, solid feel when actuating keys. Consequently, this means that while the overall auditory signature will be influenced by the top housing materials, the fundamental typing experience and feedback upon key press will share similarities.
Ultimately, the combination of different top materials creates distinct experiences, while the nylon bottoms nicely unite the sound profiles. Those looking to optimize their typing experience must consider how the top and bottom parts of the switches interact. With the Baby Kangaroo (V2), users will benefit from a brighter sound when releasing keys due to the polycarbonate top, making it ideal for those who prioritize an engaging auditory experience. Conversely, with the Caramel Pudding switch, the softer nylon top promises a more muted release sound that harmonizes well with its deeper bottom-out sensation. In summary, the contrasting top materials define the overall sonic impression, while the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a rich and pleasant typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch differ notably in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly influence user experience. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Caramel Pudding switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This difference means that the Baby Kangaroo switch requires more effort to actuate and bottom out, making it a better choice for those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Conversely, the Caramel Pudding, being lighter, facilitates longer typing sessions with reduced fatigue, making it ideal for users who need a more effortless key press during extended periods, whether at work or during long gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch, we observe that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Caramel Pudding has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is the shorter of the two options, making it a better choice for those who prefer faster response times typically favored by gamers. Conversely, the HMX Caramel Pudding, with its longer travel distance, may appeal more to individuals seeking a deeper and more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference—those looking for quick actuation may opt for the Baby Kangaroo (V2), whereas those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback might lean towards the Caramel Pudding.
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 HMX Caramel Pudding has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Caramel Pudding for $2.99.
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) presents a unique profile characterized by its crisp and light tactility. It combines a clacky and marbly sound, resulting in a sharp and percussive auditory experience. This sound signature is enhanced by high-pitched tones that create an immersive feeling with every keystroke. Comparatively, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is noted for having a resonant and clacky sound, although specific details regarding its acoustic properties weren’t provided. Overall, both switches have the potential to deliver distinct auditory experiences, but the Baby Kangaroo’s clarity stands out, especially for those who prefer bright and snappy sounds.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) excels with its snappy, bouncy, and polished characteristics. These attributes ensure a highly responsive typing experience, where the switch gives a lively rebound and smooth travel, likely due to its refined finishing process. On the other hand, the tactile qualities of the HMX Caramel Pudding are less defined, so it’s difficult to provide a direct comparison for how it feels under the fingers. This ambiguity means that while the Baby Kangaroo guarantees an engaging interaction, the performance of the Caramel Pudding remains uncertain without further data.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) excels with both a distinctive sound profile and an engaging tactile feel, making it an appealing option for enthusiasts who prioritize auditory feedback and responsive typing experiences. The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch still holds intrigue, but without more information on its sound and feel, it’s challenging to ascertain its position relative to the Baby Kangaroo. Ultimately, those looking for an engaging mechanical keyboard experience may find the Baby Kangaroo delivers the more well-rounded performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and how you plan to use your keyboard. If you appreciate a more tactile feedback with a medium-heavy push, enjoy a crisp, resonant sound, and value a lively typing experience, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is a solid choice. Its snappy and bouncy feel, along with the distinctive marbly sound profile, makes it particularly appealing for tasks that require quick feedback, such as gaming or fast-paced typing. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother, lighter touch while typing and enjoy a clacky sound signature, the Caramel Pudding switch is likely more suited for you. With its medium-light bottom-out force and exquisitely smooth feel, this switch enhances a relaxed typing experience—ideal for long typing sessions or general productivity. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and the purposes you intend to use your mechanical keyboard for.
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