Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Huano Elf
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Huano Elf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a crucial role in the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Huano Elf. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) excels as a tactile switch, providing a crisp, light feel and a distinctive marbley sound profile that many typists and gamers find satisfying. This switch is recognized for its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant characteristics, making it ideal for those who enjoy tactile feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Huano Elf presents itself as a linear switch, designed with a POK top housing that not only enhances acoustics but also offers a deep sound signature paired with a medium-light actuation force, resulting in a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience. While the Baby Kangaroo caters to users seeking tactile response and auditory feedback, the Elf appeals to individuals who prefer a more fluid and silent keystroke. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POK
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
Stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Huano Elf, a key distinction emerges between their top housings. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucence, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This rigidity translates into clearer auditory feedback when typing, making it ideal for RGB applications due to its light-permeable nature. On the other hand, the Huano Elf utilizes a POK top housing, a refined polyketone material that boasts a low coefficient of friction, resulting in an exceptionally smooth feel while typing. Despite the differences in composition, both top housings elevate the overall sound profile of their respective switches, albeit in distinct manners—one leaning toward clarity through rigidity, and the other toward a blend of smoothness and durability.
Both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Huano Elf share a commonality in their bottom housing, which is constructed from nylon. This classic material produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. Nylon's ability to absorb sound waves results in a duller yet rounder auditory experience, creating a more subdued response when the key bottoms out. This similarity in bottom housing material allows users to expect a similar feel and sound during key presses for both switches. While the top housings confer unique audio qualities, the shared nylon bottom housing acts as a consistent foundation in producing a harmonious typing experience across both models.
Ultimately, the interplay between the different top and bottom housing materials defines the character of both switch types. The polycarbonate of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) emphasizes a bright sound when releasing keys, while the POK material of the Elf results in a smooth tactile feeling. Together with the shared nylon bottom housing, both switches manifest a rich typing experience that balances acoustic feedback with comfort. Thus, even with their differences in top housing materials, users can expect a certain level of coherence in the auditory profile due to the nylon base, enabling a blend of crispness and depth that characterizes both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Huano Elf linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) requires an actuation force of 59 grams and has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy and suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Huano Elf has a significantly lighter actuation force of 42 grams, appealing to users who appreciate a softer keystroke for prolonged use. However, the bottom out force for the Elf is unknown, leaving some uncertainty about how it performs when fully pressed down. Overall, if a user seeks a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Huano Elf would be the better choice, while those who favor a heavier switch for a more tactile feel should opt for the Baby Kangaroo (V2).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Huano Elf linear switch, the differences are noteworthy. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Huano Elf offers a slightly greater distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) has the shorter travel distance, making it potentially more appealing for gamers who prefer quicker response times. Conversely, the Huano Elf, with its longer travel distance, may cater to users who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing keys, providing a sense of depth that some might find preferable. Thus, those opting for responsiveness should consider the Baby Kangaroo (V2), whereas users seeking a more pronounced feedback might lean towards the Huano Elf.
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 Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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) tactile switch is characterized by its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant audio profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. This lively auditory experience can be quite percussive and adds an engaging element to typing. On the other hand, the Huano Elf linear switch doesn't have a specified sound profile, but the mention of its POK top housing suggests that it is designed for enhanced acoustics, potentially offering a deep sound signature, which could contrast with the brighter notes of the Baby Kangaroo. Ultimately, the sound experience will also heavily depend on your keyboard’s construction and the keycap materials you choose.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) excels with a snappy and bouncy tactile response, creating a typing sensation that feels highly responsive and energetic. The polished design enhances the overall smoothness of keystrokes, allowing for a refined and satisfying experience. Conversely, the Huano Elf's tactile qualities are not explicitly detailed, but its medium-light feel is intended to support a comfortable typing experience. It may offer a straightforward typing experience, likely without the added responsiveness and bounce that the Baby Kangaroo provides.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) is vibrant and tactile with a bright sound and a wonderfully responsive feel, the Huano Elf linear switch seeks to provide a more muted auditory experience with an emphasis on comfort, albeit with less detailed tactile feedback. If you prefer a lively and snappy typing experience, the Baby Kangaroo is the way to go. If you’d rather a more subdued sound with a smoother feel, the Elf may suit your preference, though clear specifics on its tactile characteristics remain unknown. Overall, your choice will ultimately define your typing experience based on whether you value tactile feedback or a smooth linear journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Huano Elf linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile experience with notable feedback and sound, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is an excellent option, especially given its medium-heavy actuation force of 67 grams. The crisp, snappy sound and bouncy feel will enhance your typing experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate a dynamic and engaging interaction with their keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Huano Elf switch would be the way to go. With a medium-light feel and an impressive deep sound signature, it’s perfect for long typing sessions or a more subdued environment. Ultimately, consider your primary use case—whether you want tactile feedback for gaming and rapid typing, or a more fluid and muted experience for focused work—before making your decision.
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