Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, two options to consider are the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver. The Baby Kangaroo switch offers a unique combination of crisp, light tactility and a distinctive marbley sound profile. It falls under categories such as clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and snappy. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver from Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro line-up provides exceptional value and a remarkable gaming experience. These switches boast a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, making them incredibly responsive and giving you a competitive advantage. Along with vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for an exhilarating auditory element, the Gateron G Pro Silver switches deliver outstanding gaming performance without breaking the bank. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver have some similarities and differences. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will utilize RGB lighting. This means that both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when it comes to the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the switches differ. The Baby Kangaroo uses a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which means it will have a similar effect on sound as the Baby Kangaroo. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom housing.
It is worth noting that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more apparent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. The top housing, on the other hand, influences the sound when you let go of a key. This highlights the importance of having a well-balanced combination of housing materials to achieve the desired sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, there are notable differences. The Baby Kangaroo switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's actuation force of 45 grams, making the Baby Kangaroo switch heavier in this aspect. Similarly, the Baby Kangaroo switch has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams in comparison to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Baby Kangaroo switch requires a stronger push to trigger a keystroke and provides a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, making it a suitable choice for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience or need to type for extended periods of time without fatigue. Although the forces of these switches differ, it is important to note that selecting either option will still yield a satisfying typing experience, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Baby Kangaroo has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver is more traditional, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo is shallower, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial and satisfying keypress, the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences regarding the desired depth and responsiveness.
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 G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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
The subjective qualities of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch differ when it comes to sound and feel.
The Baby Kangaroo switch is known for its crisp, light tactile feel and marbley sound profile. When typing on these switches, you can expect a sharp and snappy sound that is described as clacky and high-pitched, with a resonant and clean quality. The tactile feedback of the Baby Kangaroo switch is characterized as snappy and bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The keys have a lively feel and a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience.
On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is focused on delivering exceptional gaming performance. These linear switches have a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, allowing for lightning-fast responsiveness and a competitive advantage in gaming. The sound profile of the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky, offering a deeper and richer tone reminiscent of a soft "knock" or deep "thud" when pressed. The feel of these switches is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
In conclusion, the subjective qualities of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch differ in both sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo switch offers a crisp and high-pitched sound profile, along with a snappy and bouncy tactile feel. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch provides a bassy and thocky sound profile, with a buttery and creamy typing experience. Depending on your preferences and specific use case, you can choose the switch that best suits your needs. It is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, based on the available information, you can expect similar results with regards to a light and tactile switch experience from the Baby Kangaroo and a smooth and linear typing experience from the G Pro 3.0 Silver.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique sound profile, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switches would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a crisp and light switch-like tactility, accompanied by a marbly sound profile that can be described as resonant and high-pitched. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light bottom out force and want to enhance your gaming experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are the way to go. These linear switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a light and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, they offer a shorter travel distance, which translates to lightning-fast responsiveness, perfect for competitive gaming. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches also feature RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch sound profile, adding an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the Baby Kangaroo and the G Pro 3.0 Silver depends on your preferences and whether you prioritize tactile feedback or gaming performance.
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