Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Aflion Carrot
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Aflion Carrot switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Aflion Carrot are two popular tactile options worth considering. The Baby Kangaroo switch offers a crisp and light switch-like tactility that provides a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, its unique marbley sound profile adds an extra touch of elegance to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Carrot switch boasts a fun and bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. With a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, this switch offers a more distinct auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
37g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo and Aflion Carrot share similar housing materials in their top and bottom housings, both being made of polycarbonate and nylon, respectively. Polycarbonate is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who value a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for users who plan to incorporate RGB lighting into their switch setup. Similarly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, which contributes to a duller and rounder sound experience.
However, despite their similarities in housing materials, the Baby Kangaroo and Carrot may differ in terms of their overall sound and feel due to the allocation of these materials. As mentioned, the qualities of the bottom housing have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, although the same materials are used, the placement of polycarbonate and nylon may result in variations in the tactile and auditory feedback experienced when using these switches.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and Aflion Carrot feature polycarbonate top housings that offer a sharper and crisper sound profile, particularly beneficial for RGB lighting enthusiasts. Additionally, their nylon bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound experience. However, the specific placement of these materials can lead to differences in the overall tactile and auditory feedback provided by the switches. Despite these variations, users can expect similar results in terms of the unique qualities brought by polycarbonate and nylon to their typing or gaming experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, we notice some distinct differences. The Baby Kangaroo has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Carrot's lighter 37 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Baby Kangaroo is again heavier with 67 grams, while the Carrot requires a lighter 45 grams. This means that the Baby Kangaroo provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users might prefer. On the other hand, the Carrot offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions without causing fatigue. Despite these differences, both switches provide tactile feedback, allowing users to feel when the keystroke is triggered. Therefore, those seeking a similar typing experience can achieve similar results with either switch, depending on their preference for a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, there is a clear distinction. The Baby Kangaroo has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Carrot has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Carrot switch provides a slightly deeper feel when pressing down on a key compared to the Baby Kangaroo. In general, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Baby Kangaroo with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feeling when typing, the Aflion Carrot with its longer travel distance might be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Aflion Carrot has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Carrot for $3.57.
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, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Aflion Carrot switches have similar qualities. They are both described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, both switches have a marbly sound profile, which means they are resonant, high-pitched, and clean. Tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding can help visualize this sound. Both switches also fall into the category of high-pitched switches, producing a sharp and crisp sound. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Therefore, with either switch, you can expect similar results in terms of sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Aflion Carrot switches share some qualities. Both switches provide a bouncy tactile feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. They also have similarities in terms of being snappy, which means they are super responsive. This responsiveness can be attributed to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. However, the Carrot switch is described as stepped, meaning it has a tactile bump that feels more mild compared to a hypertactile switch. The Carrot switch also has a feathery feel, being exceptionally light to press and requiring little exertion from the fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Baby Kangaroo, on the other hand, is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing. Overall, while there are slight differences in feel between the two switches, they share similar qualities in terms of being bouncy and snappy.
Taking all the available information into consideration, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Aflion Carrot switches offer a pleasant tactile experience with unique characteristics. In terms of sound, they both produce a clacky and marbly sound profile, with a high-pitched and resonant quality. In terms of feel, they both provide a bouncy and snappy tactile feedback sensation, making the typing experience lively and responsive. While the Carrot switch has additional qualities such as being stepped and feathery, the Baby Kangaroo switch offers a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron Baby Kangaroo or the Aflion Carrot switch, you can expect a satisfying tactile experience with slight variations in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when making a choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a marbley sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo switch would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a uniquely bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Carrot switch would be a better fit.
Both switches offer a clacky, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, which can provide a sharp and snappy typing experience. In terms of feel, both switches offer a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo switch is described as snappy and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The Carrot switch, on the other hand, is also snappy but features a stepped option, which provides a more mild tactile experience.
Consider your typing preferences and the specific qualities you are looking for in a switch, such as the level of tactility, sound profile, and bottom out force. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and typing needs.
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