Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. HC Studio Crabapple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HC Studio Crabapple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, you are faced with contrasting features that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo offers a crisp, light tactility, creating a unique 'marbley' sound profile that resonates with each key press. On the other hand, the Crabapple provides a frictionless typing experience due to its POM construction, offering a dry smoothness and subtle textured feel. While the Baby Kangaroo is characterized by its clacky, high-pitched nature, the Crabapple is known for its mild and understated sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your preference for tactility and sound profile. 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
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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
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
Lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HC Studio Crabapple offer different sound profiles due to their unique properties. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced typing sound. In contrast, the Crabapple's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, suitable for users seeking a quieter typing experience. While both switches offer clear housings, the choice between polycarbonate and POM will result in distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound, ideal for those who enjoy a more rounded typing experience. Similarly, the Crabapple's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, aligning with its overall muted sound characteristics. Despite their differences in material, both switches provide a unique typing experience, showcasing the impact of bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switch.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and HC Studio Crabapple differ, both switches offer a blend of qualities that cater to varying preferences. The split between the top and bottom housing allows users to experience different sound profiles depending on whether they are pressing down or releasing a key. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, muted sound of POM, both switches provide distinct typing experiences that highlight the importance of housing materials in determining overall sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, it is evident that the Crabapple is lighter while the Baby Kangaroo is heavier. The Baby Kangaroo has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Crabapple features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, offering a lighter touch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Crabapple, allowing for longer periods of use without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial feel with a stronger push may lean towards the Baby Kangaroo for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to different preferences, providing users with options to suit their typing needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, slightly shorter than the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Baby Kangaroo would be the shorter option for those seeking a quicker key press, while the Crabapple offers a slightly deeper feel for users who prefer more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 HC Studio Crabapple has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crabapple for $4.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp, crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a more subdued sound, producing a dampened and subtle auditory signature. Depending on personal preference, the Baby Kangaroo switch will give you a more resonant and high-pitched sound, while the Crabapple switch will be milder and understated.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is described as snappy, bouncy, and polished, offering a responsive typing experience with a lively rebound sensation and smooth key travel. On the contrary, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is known for its frictionless, mild, and textured feel, providing an effortlessly smooth typing journey with a gentle touch and a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Ultimately, the Baby Kangaroo switch will give you a more lively and polished typing experience, while the Crabapple switch will offer a more frictionless and milder feel.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a sharper, more resonant sound with a snappy and bouncy feel, the Baby Kangaroo switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued sound with a smooth and frictionless typing experience, the Crabapple switch may be more to your liking. Remember that individual preferences play a significant role in selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a marbly sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and appreciate a frictionless typing journey with a mild and understated sound signature, then the Crabapple switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a snappy, bouncy, and polished typing feel with a clacky and marbly sound (Baby Kangaroo), or a frictionless, mild, and textured typing experience with a subdued sound (Crabapple). Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for an optimal keyboarding experience.
Mentioned in this article
