Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar present two distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) shines with its tactile feedback, offering a crisp, light switch-like sensation accompanied by a unique marbley sound profile. This makes it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more interactive typing experience, characterized by its clacky and resonant qualities. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar caters to users seeking smoothness and reliability. As a linear switch, it excels in delivering a seamless keystroke experience, enhanced by a satisfying poppy sound and a more subdued feedback than its tactile counterpart. Ultimately, while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may attract those who thrive on tactile feedback and auditory cues, the Everfree (EF) Cedar wins over those who prioritize uninterrupted fluidity in their typing. 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
55g
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
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which imparts a distinct character to the sound profile of each switch. This shared material advantageously contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience when typing. The stiffer properties of polycarbonate enhance the resonance within the switches, a feature that is particularly valuable for enthusiasts looking to experience clear and articulated keystrokes. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate complements RGB lighting effectively, allowing for a visually appealing setup and increasing the overall aesthetic quality of both switches.
In contrast to their top housings, both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Everfree (EF) Cedar feature nylon for their bottom housing, which significantly influences the tactile response and sound produced during a key press. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic creates a duller yet rounder auditory feedback compared to the sharpness of the polycarbonate top. As a result, the combination of these materials yields a dynamic typing experience where the complexities of sound are molded by the interplay of both top and bottom housing materials.
While the top and bottom housings employ different materials, they work synergistically to produce a balanced sound profile that captures the best of both worlds—each housing accentuating its respective qualities. When users engage with either switch, they will notice the nylon bottom housing significantly affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate top housing dictates the auditory sensations experienced upon key release. This dual-material approach allows for a uniquely satisfying typing experience, demonstrating how the thoughtful selection of housing materials can result in complementary auditory properties.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, there is a notable difference in actuation forces. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) requires an actuation force of 59 grams, while the Everfree (EF) Cedar has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams. This makes the Everfree switch the preferred choice for those seeking a lighter feel, ideal for extensive typing sessions or prolonged gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. Conversely, the Baby Kangaroo offers a more substantial push with its medium-heavy actuation force, catering to users who appreciate a firmer typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Baby Kangaroo has a measurable bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a tangible feedback when the key is fully pressed. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for the Everfree (EF) Cedar is unavailable, making direct comparison in this regard difficult. Overall, the differences highlight that the Baby Kangaroo offers a heavier typing experience, while the Everfree Cedar is the lighter alternative.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a shorter travel distance compared to the Everfree (EF) Cedar. For users who prioritize responsiveness and quicker actuation, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the better choice, as its shorter travel distance allows for faster key presses, which can be particularly advantageous for gaming. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing keys might lean towards the Everfree (EF) Cedar with its longer travel distance, offering a deeper and more pronounced actuation. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences in key feel and response, the distinction in their travel distances plays a significant role in user experience.
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 Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Everfree (EF) Cedar for $2.75.
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) is characterized by its distinctive marbley sound profile, which can be described as clacky, bright, and resonant. Typing on these switches produces a crisp and snappy auditory experience reminiscent of high-pitched sounds, akin to the collision of billiard balls or tapping on marble. This provides an engaging auditory feedback that may enhance the overall typing experience for enthusiasts who appreciate cleaner, sharper sound profiles. On the other hand, while the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch is noted for its smooth and reliable performance, specific sound properties have not been detailed, leaving it unclear how it competes with the auditory character of the Baby Kangaroo (V2).
When considering feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) switches offer a lively and dynamic typing experience with descriptors that include snappy and bouncy. This responsiveness is often attributed to their design, possibly involving longer or dual-staged springs, which provide an elastic feedback sensation that enhances the overall interaction with the switch. Additionally, they are noted for their polished finish, indicating a smooth key travel that minimizes friction. Conversely, there is a lack of detailed feedback on the feel of the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch, so it’s difficult to assess how its tactile performance might compare to the more vibrant response of the Baby Kangaroo (V2).
In summary, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out with its unique combination of a responsive, tactile feel and an engaging sound profile, making it a compelling choice for those who appreciate a lively typing experience paired with a noticeable auditory feedback. Meanwhile, although the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar provides smooth and reliable performance, more information is needed to fully evaluate its sound and feel. If sound quality is important, the pronounced auditory feedback of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may sway your choice, while the Cedar might appeal for its cost-effectiveness and potentially different performance qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more tactile experience with a snappy and bouncy feel, coupled with a bright and crisp auditory feedback, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be an excellent option. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams ensures that you won't bump keys accidentally, making it perfect for typists who crave a responsive and lively experience while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more straightforward typing experience with minimal audio feedback, the Everfree (EF) Cedar's linear design provides a seamless key press without tactile bumps or clicks. This switch is ideal for users who want a quiet, efficient typing experience, especially in shared workspaces or during long hours of use. Hence, weigh these factors carefully to select the switch that best aligns with your typing habits and sound preferences.
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