Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2), a tactile switch, to the Durock Daybreak, a linear switch, we see distinctive characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo is praised for its crisp, light tactility and unique marbley sound profile, providing a clacky and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak offers a heftier typing feel at 67g, coupled with quiet operation and a polished, muted sound profile. While the Baby Kangaroo is bouncy and high-pitched, the Daybreak is low-pitched and polished. If you prefer a tactile and snappy typing experience, the Baby Kangaroo may be the way to go, while those seeking a heavier, quieter linear switch may find the Daybreak more suitable. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Durock Daybreak, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the clear nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. These similarities suggest that users can expect a similar sound and lighting experience from both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Daybreak when it comes to the top housing material.
However, a noticeable difference arises when examining the bottom housing material of the two switches. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality. This shared use of nylon bottom housing indicates that users can expect a consistent sound profile when typing on either switch, with a focus on a deeper and fuller sound thanks to the properties of nylon.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is essential to recognize the division of qualities between the top and bottom housings of each switch. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the tactile feedback when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall typing sound profile. By understanding how each housing material contributes to the typing experience, users can make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and feel when selecting between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Durock Daybreak.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, we see that the Baby Kangaroo has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams, while the Daybreak's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This means that individuals who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Baby Kangaroo for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Daybreak. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option when compared to the Durock Daybreak linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Baby Kangaroo's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Daybreak's longer travel distance may offer a more substantial key press feel. Both switches provide a different typing experience to cater to individual preferences, with the Baby Kangaroo offering a quicker, more responsive feel and the Daybreak providing a deeper, more deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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 best known for its unique and distinct clacky and marbly sound profile. This switch offers a crisp and bright sound when pressed, reminiscent of tapping on a solid piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak linear switch is described as producing a muted and low-pitched sound, offering a quieter typing experience that is ideal for workspaces where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and the environment in which the keyboard will be used.
When it comes to feel, both switches share the descriptor of being polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is also known for its snappy and bouncy feel, providing a responsive and lively typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak linear switch's heaviness with a 67g actuation force offers a weightier typing experience, suited for those who prefer a more substantial touch when typing.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. If a user prefers a switch with a crisp, bright sound and responsive, bouncy feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if a quieter typing experience with a heavier touch is preferred, the Durock Daybreak switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light tactility along with a marbley sound profile, then the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with the same medium-heavy bottom out force and appreciate a quieter operation with a heavier typing experience, then the Durock Daybreak switch is the way to go. Consider your sound preference – clacky and high-pitched for the Baby Kangaroo (V2), versus muted and low-pitched for the Daybreak – as well as the feel of the switches – snappy, bouncy, and polished for the Baby Kangaroo (V2) compared to the polished feel of the Daybreak. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style, sound preferences, and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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