Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately boils down to personal preference and specific needs. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is praised for its crisp, light tactile feedback and unique marbley sound profile, making it a top choice for those who enjoy a bouncier, clacky feel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a smooth and easy-to-press linear experience with a poppy, clacky sound that appeals to budget-conscious enthusiasts looking for a vibrant auditory experience. 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
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
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
20mm spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro lies in their housing materials. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) uses a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro also utilizes a polycarbonate top housing but pairs it with a nylon bottom housing, offering a balance of clear and resonant sound with a duller and rounder bottom-out sound.
Despite the different bottom housing materials, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro ultimately deliver similar results due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing. This material creates a distinct sound profile that is sharp, high-pitched, and crisp, making it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Both switches also benefit from their chosen bottom housing material, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro impacts the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, while the addition of nylon in the bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches showcase a balance of qualities that cater to different preferences, offering a unique typing experience based on the combination of their housing materials. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a duller, rounder sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro deliver distinct characteristics that make them stand out in the mechanical keyboard market.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of force required for typing. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it lighter in comparison. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches provide different experiences based on individual preferences, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro being lighter and the Baby Kangaroo (V2) being heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Baby Kangaroo has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's 3.3 mm. While the difference may seem minimal, it can impact the overall typing experience for enthusiasts. Gamers seeking a faster response time may lean towards the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the Gateron Baby Kangaroo more satisfying. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the slight variation in travel distance catering to different preferences.
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 Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 offers a unique and distinctive experience with its clacky and marbly sound profile, providing users with a sharp and snappy sound akin to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch delivers a poppy, clacky sound that is vibrant and satisfying. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Baby Kangaroo being more resonant and high-pitched compared to the Cream Yellow Pro V3. However, the actual sound produced can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is described as snappy and bouncy, providing a responsive and lively typing experience. The switch is also noted for its polished feel, offering smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is characterized by being easy-to-press and feathery, requiring minimal force for activation and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a bouncy feel, enhancing the typing experience with spring-like feedback. The polished finish of the Baby Kangaroo complements the smoothness of the Cream Yellow Pro V3.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offer distinct experiences to users. The Baby Kangaroo excels in providing a crisp, high-pitched sound with a snappy and bouncy feel, while the Cream Yellow Pro V3 stands out for its poppy, clacky sound and easy-to-press, feathery feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, with both switches delivering satisfying results in their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, it comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light switch-like tactility along with a unique marbley sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and value a poppy, clacky sound paired with a smooth typing experience, then the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be more suitable for your needs. Consider how you prioritize sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision to ensure the switch you choose enhances your overall typing experience.
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