Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo, a tactile switch, and the Gateron CJ, a linear switch. If you are on the hunt for a mechanical keyboard switch that perfectly suits your typing preferences, these two options come highly recommended. The Baby Kangaroo switch offers a crisp and light switch-like tactility, creating a satisfying typing experience. Along with its distinctive marbley sound profile, characterized by high-pitched and resonant clacks, this switch is sure to please those seeking a bouncy and polished feel. On the other hand, the CJ offers a unique presentation of a linear switch, providing an impossibly smooth push feel. Typing on it results in higher-pitched clacks and a noticeably neutral and mild sensation. With its low-pitched and thocky sound profile, the CJ switch offers a delightful option for those who value a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Gateron CJ switches have distinct differences in terms of sound profile and feel. The Baby Kangaroo features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, providing a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the CJ switch has a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, without being overly sharp. It is often described as clacky, providing a satisfying thin sound. While both switches have different sound profiles, they both offer a unique and attractive sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Baby Kangaroo utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the CJ switch incorporates a POM bottom housing, offering an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The POM housing creates a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted compared to nylon. Thus, the CJ switch delivers a different auditory experience, characterized by a deeper tone.
When it comes to the overall feel of the switches, the bottom housing material plays a significant role. Pressing down on the switch activates the bottom housing, which impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. Depending on whether the switch uses nylon or POM, users will experience a different tactile sensation when typing. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether polycarbonate or INK blend, influences the sound when letting go of a key. Despite their differences, both switches provide a satisfying and unique typing experience, with each housing material contributing to the overall performance and sound profile of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, it becomes apparent that the Baby Kangaroo is the heavier option. With an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, it falls into the medium-heavy category. On the other hand, the CJ switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience and the ability to type for longer periods may lean towards the CJ switch, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces offer a lighter touch. However, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer a stronger push may find the Baby Kangaroo switch more suited to their preferences. Although they differ in their forces, both switches provide a satisfactory typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Baby Kangaroo offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the CJ switch. This shorter travel distance can be advantageous for gamers who prefer faster response times, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance, like the CJ switch. The CJ switch provides a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more hearty feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
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 Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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 Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch is known for its crisp and light tactile feedback, giving users a satisfyingly tactile typing experience. The sound profile of this switch can be described as clacky and marbly. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, similar to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. The higher-pitched and resonant sound profile adds to an immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo switch is snappy and bouncy. It is super responsive and provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The polished finish of the switch contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Gateron CJ linear switch presents a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch. When typing on CJ switches, higher-pitched clacks can be heard, giving it a distinctive sound profile. It is also described as chirpy, with a little squeak to them, setting it apart from other linear switches. The feel of the CJ switch is mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It stands in a safe, middle-ground zone and is approachable to most users.
Overall, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a crisp and light tactile feedback, along with a clacky and marbly sound profile, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switch would be a suitable choice. Its snappy and bouncy feel adds to the typing experience, providing a responsive and lively feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique presentation of a linear switch with higher-pitched clacks and a chirpy sound profile, along with a mild and gentle typing experience, the Gateron CJ switch would be a suitable option.
It's important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, based on the provided information, these are the subjective qualities that can be expected from the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo is a great option. It offers a crisp and light switch-like tactility, along with a unique marbley sound profile. The Baby Kangaroo is described as clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron CJ is a fantastic choice. It offers a different typing experience with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel. The CJ is described as chirpy, neutral, low-pitched, and thocky, providing a switch with a unique acoustic signature and a deep, satisfying sound when pressed.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the CJ will depend on your personal preference for both sound and feel. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a more medium-heavy bottom out force and a marbley sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo is the way to go. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a higher-pitched clack sound, the CJ will be the better option.
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