Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may want to consider the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Cheese. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is a tactile switch, known for its crisp and light tactility, along with a unique marbley sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese is a linear switch, offering unparalleled smoothness and a pristine typing experience, with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is praised for its bouncy and polished feel, the Cheese is highlighted for being lighter than 90% of all switches. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Cheese, we can see a clear distinction in the materials used. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Cheese utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles is due to the difference in stiffness between polycarbonate and nylon plastics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is also translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting, whereas the Cheese's opaque nylon housing offers a classic look.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Cheese feature nylon housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the nylon material. The absorption of sound by nylon creates a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics, giving both switches a unique tactile experience. However, the impact of the bottom housing material will be more noticeable when bottoming out a key, while the top housing material will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Cheese differ in their top housing materials, they share similarities in their bottom housing materials. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of sound profile when typing on both switches. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Baby Kangaroo (V2) or the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon top housing in the Cheese, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the HMX Cheese linear switch. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) requires 59 grams of force to actuate and 67 grams to bottom out, while the Cheese only needs 43 grams to actuate and 46 grams to bottom out. This makes the Cheese a lighter option, ideal for those who prefer a gentler typing experience or for extended use. In contrast, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a more substantial and tactile feel, which may be preferred by users who like a bit more resistance when typing. It's important to consider personal preference when choosing between these two switches, as weight can greatly impact typing comfort and overall user experience. Ultimately, selecting the right switch will depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches are very close in travel distance, with the Cheese being slightly longer. The difference of 0.1 mm may not be noticeable to most users, but for those who are sensitive to subtle variations, it could impact the typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer the shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo or the slightly longer distance of the Cheese, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, making them great options for those seeking a faster response time.
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 Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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) tactile switch is known for its crisp and sharp clacky sound profile, accompanied by a high-pitched and resonant marbly sound. In contrast, the HMX Cheese linear switch boasts a unique clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that is lighter than the majority of switches available. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, with the Baby Kangaroo offering a sharp and bright sound, while the Cheese delivers a satisfying poppy sound that stands out in the realm of ultra-light switches.
Moving on to the feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is characterized by its snappy and bouncy tactile feedback, providing a responsive and lively typing experience. The keys feel polished and smooth, offering reduced friction and enhanced key travel. On the other hand, the specific feel of the HMX Cheese linear switch is not provided in the information given. However, based on its ultra-light nature, it can be inferred that the Cheese switch likely offers a smooth and effortless typing experience due to its light actuation force.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch each have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo stands out for its sharp and marbly sound profile, coupled with a snappy and bouncy tactile feel, while the Cheese switch boasts a satisfyingly clacky and poppy sound with presumed smooth key travel due to its ultra-light nature. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct experiences for users seeking different sound and feel preferences in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and enjoy a crisp, light tactile feedback with a clacky and marbly sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 46 grams and value an ultra-smooth typing experience with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, then the HMX Cheese linear switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and what feels most comfortable to you.
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