Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers enthusiasts two unique yet appealing tactile experiences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is celebrated for its crisp and light tactility, providing a snappy response that enhances both typing and gaming efficiency. Its marbley sound profile, characterized as clacky and resonant, adds a playful auditory element to every keystroke. In contrast, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its pronounced tactile bump, delivering an invigorating feedback that many users find satisfying. Moreover, its bassier sound signature contributes to a deeper auditory experience, appealing to those who enjoy a louder keystroke. While both switches cater to tactile preferences, the choice largely depends on whether one prefers a more lightweight and playful sound or a robust and fulfilling tactile response. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that contributes significantly to their acoustical performance. The polycarbonate material is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, a characteristic that is similar in both switches. This is due to the inherent stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing makes it especially suitable for RGB lighting setups, allowing for vibrant color emissions that can elevate the aesthetic experience for users.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, a classic material recognized for its ability to dampen sound and create a warmer auditory profile. The softer nature of nylon means that both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro generate a deeper and fuller sound when typing, filling the acoustic space more thoroughly than the impact of the stiffer polycarbonate. Consequently, users can expect a pleasant balance between the qualities of the two materials: the polycarbonate top contributing brightness and clarity on key release, while the nylon bottom delivers a rounder, more muted sound at the bottom-out point.
Ultimately, despite the differences in bottom housing, the combination of materials in both switch designs ensures that users will experience an evenly balanced sound signature. The synergy of the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom allows for a unique typing experience that enhances both audio and tactile feedback. Since both switches utilize the same material compositions for their respective parts, people can expect their acoustic performance to be largely comparable, giving them the opportunity to choose between the two based on other preferences, such as actuation force or feel, without sacrificing the auditory qualities they seek.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch, a notable difference in weight can be seen between their actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a substantial actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is characterized by a much lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This significant difference means the Baby Kangaroo is better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the lighter Creamy Purple Pro is ideal for users who seek comfort during extended typing sessions or gaming. Thus, if you're looking for a softer touch, the Akko V3 is the clear choice, making it easier for prolonged use without fatigue.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch, we find that they differ notably. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is greater than the 3 mm travel distance of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro. As a result, users who favor a deeper keystroke might prefer the Baby Kangaroo (V2) for its more substantial feedback, while those seeking quicker response times might find the shorter travel of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro to be more suitable for gaming. Consequently, if responsiveness is a priority, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice will depend on personal preference for tactile feedback versus speed.
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 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a unique combination characterized by a clacky and marbly profile. Users can expect a crisp and lively auditory experience, with high-pitched tones that accentuate each keystroke. This results in a sharp, bright sound reminiscent of percussive elements, ideal for those who prefer a more resonant typing environment. In contrast, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro's sound characteristics remain unspecified, which makes it challenging to draw direct comparisons. However, the distinct tonal quality of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) suggests that those seeking a clear, inviting auditory feedback may want to lean toward it, while the Creamy Purple Pro might engender different auditory nuances yet to be identified.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) excels with its snappy and bouncy feedback, creating a responsive typing experience. The lively sensation paired with a polished finish contributes to a smooth key travel, making it enjoyable for extended typing sessions. This refined tactile feedback enhances the overall interaction with the keyboard, making each strike feel deliberate and rewarding. Unfortunately, the feel characteristics of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro are not provided, which means we can only speculate that it may offer an experience that appeals to tactile switch enthusiasts while lacking a direct comparison for tactile response.
In summary, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out both in sound and feel, with a well-defined tactile experience and a lively auditory snapshot that aligns well with users who appreciate crisp acoustics and responsive feedback. The specific qualities of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro remain largely unknown, particularly in the auditory and tactile domains. Newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world may find that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a more predictable and engaging experience, while the Creamy Purple Pro could promise its own unique features that await discovery. Ultimately, the choice will depend on the user's personal preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switches ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile experience with a snappy and bouncy feedback, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is an excellent choice, particularly for users who enjoy a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams. This switch excels in a typing environment where the crisp, resonant sound and the polished feel can enhance your overall experience, making it ideal for both typing and gaming scenarios where responsiveness is key. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with a more substantial tactile bump, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is worth considering due to its 50-gram bottom-out force and bassier, louder sound profile. This switch is particularly suited for those who enjoy an invigorating typing experience, possibly appealing to writers or gamers seeking a more engaging auditory feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits; your decision should reflect your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and the weight of actuation.
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