Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch to the HMX EMO linear switch, it is clear that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo switch is hailed for its crisp tactility and marbly sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX EMO switch stands out for its clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. While the Baby Kangaroo offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, the EMO delivers a satisfying and smooth feel. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX EMO are quite similar in terms of their top housings being made of polycarbonate. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Both switches will provide a clear and resonant sound when typing, as polycarbonate is known for enhancing the overall sound experience. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches ensures that users will enjoy a satisfying auditory experience, making them suitable options for those who prioritize sound quality.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a nylon bottom housing, while the HMX EMO also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound vibrations, resulting in a rounder sound when typing. Both switches will provide a different tactile experience when bottoming out keys, thanks to the qualities of the nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will offer users a more muted and satisfying sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX EMO share similarities in their top housing material, which enhances the sound profile of the switches. The differences lie in the bottom housing material, with both switches utilizing nylon to provide a deeper and fuller sound experience. Users can expect a sharper and crisper sound when pressing down on keys, thanks to the polycarbonate top housing, and a more muted and round sound when bottoming out keys due to the nylon bottom housing. These housing materials work together to create a balanced and enjoyable typing experience for users of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, it is clear that the EMO is the lighter option while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is the heavier one. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, which is considered light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the EMO switch as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Baby Kangaroo (V2). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches are considered to have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may prefer the Baby Kangaroo for its slightly shorter travel distance, as it can allow for faster response times during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a bit more depth when typing may lean towards the EMO switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the difference of 0.1 mm in travel distance may not be noticeable to all users, so both switches could provide similar results depending on individual 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 HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 known for its clacky and marbly sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy noise with a resonant, high-pitched quality. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown. Depending on your preferences for sound, if you enjoy a crisp and bright noise, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the better choice.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is described as snappy and bouncy, providing a responsive and lively typing experience. The keys have a spring-like feel, giving a rebound sensation when pressed, and they offer a polished finish for smooth key travel. Unfortunately, the feel of the HMX EMO linear switch is unknown. If you prefer a switch with a more tactile and responsive feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the preferable option.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch offers a unique combination of a lively, clacky sound profile and a snappy, bouncy feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking an engaging typing experience. The HMX EMO linear switch's sound and feel qualities remain unknown, so it is recommended to try both switches out and see which one fits your preferences best. Both switches may provide a satisfying typing experience, but ultimately, individual preferences for sound and feel will determine which switch is the best fit for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a unique marbley sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom-out force and a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light touch, along with exceptionally factory-lubed smoothness for effortless typing experience, then the HMX EMO linear switch would be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and the specific sound and feel that you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely to enhance your typing experience.
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