Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish mechanical keyboard switches, both are tactile switches offering unique features. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is praised for its crisp, light tactility that provides a marbley sound profile, giving a clacky and bouncy feel. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is known for its medium weight and neutral sound signature, making it a stellar default tactile option with an approachable price point. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a more distinctive and resonant typing experience, the EverFree (EF) Grayish provides a smoother and more balanced 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
59g
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
3.40 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 Baby Kangaroo (V2) and EverFree (EF) Grayish switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through the housing. However, the differences in these switches lie in their nylon bottom housings. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Grayish also features a nylon bottom housing with similar sound qualities.
In terms of overall sound and feel, the split between the top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role in the typing experience of these switches. The nylon bottom housing of both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and EverFree (EF) Grayish affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the impact of the top housing material, polycarbonate, is more prominent when releasing a key, contributing to the sharp, high-pitched sound produced by these switches. Despite these differences in material, both switches offer a unique typing experience that combines the qualities of polycarbonate and nylon in their housing construction.
Overall, the choice between the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and EverFree (EF) Grayish switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, the variation in their nylon bottom housings adds depth and fullness to the typing experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) or a deeper sound with the EverFree (EF) Grayish, both switches offer a combination of materials that contribute to a unique and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch both have an actuation force of 59 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial keystroke activation. However, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a bottom out force of 67 grams, giving it a slightly heavier feel when fully pressing down the keys compared to the EverFree (EF) Grayish, whose bottom out force is unknown. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) can be considered more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish may cater to individuals who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Overall, while the actuation forces are the same, the difference in bottom out forces between the two switches offers users a choice between a lighter or heavier typing experience based on personal preference.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This implies that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. So, whether you choose the Baby Kangaroo or the EverFree Grayish, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance.
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) Grayish 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) Grayish for $2.69.
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 known for its clacky and marbly sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, along with a resonant and high-pitched auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound signature, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. Both switches will provide unique auditory experiences, with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) having a more vibrant and sharp sound, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish offering a more balanced and versatile sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its snappy and bouncy feedback, providing a responsive and lively typing experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch ensures a smooth and refined typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is described as stepped and snappy, giving a mild tactile sensation with two stages of feedback. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) providing a more spring-like and elastic feedback, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish offering a more controlled and responsive typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a more vibrant and sharp sound with a responsive and lively typing feel, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a neutral sound signature and a mild tactile sensation for a balanced typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches can cater to different needs and provide a pleasant typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch or the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a unique tactile experience with a crisp, light switch-like tactility along with a marbly sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound signature that is suitable for most purposes and has a medium weight, then the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch would be a solid option. Ultimately, your decision may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prioritize a specific sound profile or prefer a certain level of feedback, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Consider these factors carefully when selecting the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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