Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Dareu Firefly mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Baby Kangaroo switch is praised for its crisp, light tactility and unique marbley sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Firefly switch offers a quiet typing experience with a light actuation and subtle clickiness. While the Baby Kangaroo is known for its clacky, high-pitched feel, the Firefly is described as easy-to-press and chirpy. Both switches have their own appeal and advantages, making it important to understand each switch's characteristics before making a decision. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Dareu Firefly, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this feature, the design and aesthetics of each switch may differ based on other factors such as switch stem design and colors.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Firefly utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. While the differences in sound produced by the top housing may be more noticeable during key release, the qualities of the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on either switch.
Overall, while both switches feature a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials, the specific design and construction of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Dareu Firefly may result in slight variations in sound profiles and typing experiences. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, with the stiffer polycarbonate contributing to a sharper sound profile and the softer nylon creating a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style may play a role in determining which switch is better suited for individual users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, it is evident that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Firefly switch. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) requires 59 grams of force to actuate a key and 67 grams of force to bottom out, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. This makes the Firefly ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing, while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to the preferences of users, allowing for a personalized typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Firefly may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel. Both switches offer different experiences and it's important to consider what feels more comfortable and efficient for individual typing or gaming needs.
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 Dareu Firefly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Firefly for $3.76.
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, producing a sharp, snappy noise with a clean, resonant quality akin to tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is described as chirpy, offering a unique acoustic signature with a subtle hint of clickiness and a quiet, non-resonant sound. While both switches provide a distinct auditory experience, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) leans towards a sharper, more resonant sound, while the Firefly offers a quieter and smoother typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is praised for its snappy and bouncy feedback, providing a responsive and lively typing experience with a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is noted for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and light actuation force for effortless and comfortable typing, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Both switches offer different tactile sensations, with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) focusing on a more responsive and bouncy feel, while the Firefly prioritizes a light and easy-to-press typing experience.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a sharp, snappy sound and a more responsive, bouncy feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you value a quieter, non-resonant sound and an easy-to-press, low-impact typing feel, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when making a decision between the two.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light tactility with a marbley sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no stated bottom out force and value a very light actuation with just a hint of clickiness in a quiet switch, then the Dareu Firefly switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
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