Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. HMX Cloud - 63.5g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is praised for its tactile feedback, offering a crisp and light switch-like tactility that is accompanied by a unique marbley sound profile. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch that provides a heavier typing experience with a clacky sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a bright and vibrant typing feel. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
56g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.90 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 Cloud - 63.5g, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for elicitng a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition which absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity suggests that when typing on either switch, users can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of sound and feel, as the nylon bottom housing plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience.
However, when examining the top housing materials, a notable difference emerges between the two switches. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Cloud - 63.5g utilizes a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is characterized by its stiffer nature, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the softer nylon top housing of the Cloud - 63.5g creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast highlights how the choice of top housing material can greatly impact the auditory experience of typing on a mechanical keyboard.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch also plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The qualities of each material, whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate or softer nylon, will manifest differently depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or letting go. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This nuanced interaction between the top and bottom housing materials adds another layer of complexity to the overall typing experience of switches like the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, we see that the Baby Kangaroo requires a heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Cloud's 56 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Baby Kangaroo also requires a heavier force of 67 grams compared to the Cloud's 63.5 grams. Both switches fall under the category of medium-heavy in terms of force required, but the Baby Kangaroo is slightly heavier in both aspects. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cloud may be a better choice, as it offers slightly lighter actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo would be more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Baby Kangaroo has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cloud. The difference of 0.5 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer a quicker response may opt for the Baby Kangaroo, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Cloud. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Cloud - 63.5g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 63.5g 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
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its unique sound profile, described as clacky and marbly, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience with a resonant and high-pitched tone. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, catering to those who enjoy a sharp and percussive typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a snappy and bouncy tactile feedback, with a polished finish for smooth key travel. In comparison, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch offers a bouncy sensation, coupled with a creamy typing experience that feels smooth and buttery.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may provide a slightly more tactile typing experience with its snappy feedback and polished finish, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch offers a smoother and creamier sensation. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the bright and resonant sound of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) or the clacky and high-pitched sound of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, as well as decide between the lively bounce of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) or the creamy feel of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch. Ultimately, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy a light switch-like tactility with a marbley sound profile and a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky sound profile with a silky smooth feel and a slightly lighter bottom out force, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch could be the ideal fit. Consider how you like your typing experience to sound and feel, and make your decision based on that. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your preferences and typing style.
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