Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. KTT F2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the KTT F2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the KTT F2 stand out as unique options to enhance your typing experience. The Baby Kangaroo is praised for its crisp, light tactile feedback and distinctive marbley sound profile, giving it a 'Clacky', 'Marbly', and 'Resonant' categorization. On the other hand, the KTT F2 offers a different typing experience with its medium-light weightiness, comfortable typing feel, and lightly textured keystrokes, earning it a 'Feathery', 'Mild', and 'Subtle' classification. While the Baby Kangaroo is known for its bouncy and polished feel, the F2 boasts a subdued and neutral signature. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences in typing feedback. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the KTT F2, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. Despite these similarities, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon compared to polycarbonate. In contrast, the F2 opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining consistency in sound characteristics throughout the switch.
The different bottom housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the KTT F2 result in distinct typing experiences for users. The nylon bottom housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more muted and rounder typing feel. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the F2 contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, emphasizing clarity and resonance during typing. This difference in bottom housing material showcases how the design choices in switch construction can greatly impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback for users.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the KTT F2 plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience for users. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile and enhanced aesthetics with RGB lighting, the difference in bottom housing materials results in varying levels of sound depth and resonance. Ultimately, the housing materials utilized in switches not only affect the auditory feedback during typing but also contribute to the overall feel and satisfaction of using mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, it is evident that the F2 is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a medium-heavy actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the F2 has a medium-light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the F2 will provide a lighter typing experience compared to the Baby Kangaroo (V2). The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it can greatly impact the typing feel and endurance during long typing or gaming sessions. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Baby Kangaroo (V2) with its heavier forces, while those looking for a lighter touch may lean towards the F2 for a smoother typing experience.Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the F2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Baby Kangaroo (V2). Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for quicker response times. However, the difference in distance between the two switches is minimal and may not be noticeable to the average user. Ultimately, if you prefer a shorter travel distance for a more responsive feel, either switch would provide similar results.
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 KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 per 10 switches.
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, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound with a resonant, high-pitched quality reminiscent of tapping on a solid piece of marble. On the other hand, the KTT F2 linear switch is described as having a neutral and subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature. Depending on personal preference and setup, the sound of each switch can vary but the Baby Kangaroo (V2) will likely provide a more percussive and bright sound compared to the F2's moderate and understated sound.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch is noted for its snappy and bouncy tactile feedback, providing a responsive and lively typing experience with a polished finish for smooth key travel. In contrast, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a feathery and mild typing feel, characterized by a light actuation force and gentle resistance suitable for extended typing sessions or shared spaces. Both switches offer unique tactile nuances that cater to different preferences, with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) focusing on liveliness and responsiveness while the F2 prioritizes comfort and subtlety.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the KTT F2 linear switch each bring their own distinctive characteristics to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a crisp, clacky sound and snappy, bouncy tactile feedback for a responsive and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT F2 offers a neutral, subdued sound and a feathery, mild typing feel for a comfortable and understated typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for sound profile, tactile feedback, and typing comfort.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, you should consider the level of tactility and sound profile that suits your preferences. If you enjoy a medium-heavy tactile experience with a crisp, light tactility and a marbley sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a distinct hollow sound signature and a lightly textured feel, the KTT F2 switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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