Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Bsun Chiikawa - 45g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is celebrated for its tactile feedback, providing a crisp and light switch-like feel that is both snappy and bouncy, complemented by a marbley sound profile that enhances the typing experience with a pleasant acoustic vibe. In contrast, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g is a linear switch designed for responsiveness, characterized by its very light actuation force and bright sound profile, allowing for smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes that many typists find appealing. While the Baby Kangaroo caters to those who enjoy a tactile rhythm in their typing, the Chiikawa's linear nature focuses on fluidity and speed. 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
51g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3X
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switches share striking similarities in their housing materials, significantly influencing their acoustic characteristics. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for generating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's inherent stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice when RGB lighting is involved, as it effectively showcases the illumination. In this regard, users can expect both switches to produce comparable sound profiles and aesthetic appeal, benefiting from the same qualities inherent to their polycarbonate top housings.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Chiikawa - 45g are also made from nylon, a classic material recognized for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a rounder and more subdued acoustic experience. This shared choice of nylon for the bottom housing indicates that while both switches emit distinct sounds based on the combination of their top and bottom housings, the overall auditory experience during typing will retain certain similarities due to the use of the same housing materials at each end. Consequently, users can expect a cohesive sound profile that balances the crispness of the polycarbonate with the depth of the nylon.
Ultimately, although the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g have different brands and models, the similarities in their housing materials tell a cohesive story of sound and feel. As both switches utilize polycarbonate on the top and nylon on the bottom, they will yield similar results in terms of acoustic experience. While the top housing primarily influences the sound upon release, the bottom housing governs the bottom-out sound during key presses. Therefore, users can anticipate a harmonious blend of crispness and depth from both switches, making them suitable for enthusiasts seeking specific auditory feedback and tactile responses from their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch present a distinct contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces, which significantly affects typing experience. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 45g has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This means that the Chiikawa offers a lighter touch that can be more comfortable for prolonged typing sessions, making it preferable for users seeking ease and efficiency. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo’s heavier forces provide a more substantial push feel that some users may favor for a more tactile experience. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch that feels lighter and requires less force to actuate, the Chiikawa is the better choice, while those who prefer a heavier typing experience should lean toward the Baby Kangaroo.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch, it is evident that they differ in measurement. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Chiikawa - 45g offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you prefer a switch that provides quicker actuation for more responsive gaming, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) with its shorter 3.4 mm travel distance may be more suited to your needs. On the other hand, the Chiikawa - 45g could be a better option if you appreciate a bit more depth in your keystrokes, as its 3.6 mm travel distance allows for a more pronounced feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize speed or tactile feedback in your 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 Bsun Chiikawa - 45g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 45g for $3.29.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) is characterized by a blend of clarity and brightness, featuring a clacky and marbly auditory signature. This leads to a crisp, high-pitched sound that is lively and engaging while typing. The marbly quality further enhances the resonant experience, evoking a sense of sharpness akin to the sound of colliding billiard balls. In contrast, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is also known for a bright sound profile, specific descriptions of its auditory characteristics are not provided. However, we can anticipate it to produce a crisp, high-pitched sound similar to the Baby Kangaroo, assuming that the mechanical properties of the switch contribute to similar results.
When it comes to tactile feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out with its snappy and bouncy feedback, providing a responsive and lively experience with each keystroke. The polished finish of these switches enhances the smoothness of the typing experience, reducing friction during travel. On the other hand, the Chiikawa - 45g linear switch does not have specific descriptors related to its feel, leaving it somewhat ambiguous. However, as a linear switch typically offers a smooth actuation without the tactile bump, it may not provide the same definitive feedback as the tactile Baby Kangaroo but could still present a pleasurable, lightweight typing experience.
In summary, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a lively auditory and tactile experience marked by its crisp, clacky sound profile and snappy feedback, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switch is noted for its bright sonority with less clarity on its tactile qualities. If you’re seeking a robust tactile sensation and engaging sound, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) shines in those aspects. If you prefer a potentially lighter response with smooth actuation, the Chiikawa may suit your needs, particularly if auditory qualities similar to the Baby Kangaroo are desired. Ultimately, your personal typing style and preference will dictate the best choice between these two switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and the kind of experience you desire. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch that offers snappy and responsive feedback, complemented by a delightful marbly sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy tactile sensations while typing, leading to a more engaging and immersive experience. On the other hand, if you find yourself gravitating toward lighter switches that allow for quicker actuation with a bright sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g would better suit your needs. This switch is ideal for those who value speed and a crisp auditory feedback in their keystrokes. Ultimately, consider the weight of each switch's bottom out force, as well as the overall feel and sound that resonates with you to make an informed decision that enhances your typing experience.
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