Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Jwick Ginger Milk
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are excited to present two unique mechanical keyboard switches for your consideration: the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Jwick Ginger Milk. The Baby Kangaroo switch offers a delightful combination of crisp tactility and a satisfyingly marbled sound profile. Known for being clacky, high-pitched, and bouncy, this switch provides a distinct and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switch showcases a softer and pastel aesthetic, which is reflective of its typing experience. With a silky smooth push feel and a muted, snappy sound profile, this switch falls into the neutral and buttery category. Both switches have qualities that may appeal to different preferences and needs. However, let's delve deeper into their specific characteristics to help you make an informed decision and choose the best switch for your keyboard.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Jwick Ginger Milk share similarities in their choice of housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. The use of polycarbonate in switch housings results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Consequently, both the Baby Kangaroo and the Ginger Milk would provide similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits due to their polycarbonate top housings.
However, the switches differ when it comes to their bottom housings. The Baby Kangaroo features a nylon bottom housing, while the Ginger Milk also incorporates nylon for this component. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. It has the ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the bottom housings of both switches would offer a comparable sound experience, as nylon's characteristics will impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Jwick Ginger Milk present similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper and clearer sound profile with the added benefit of being compatible with RGB lighting. However, their differences lie in the choice of their bottom housings. The nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound due to the material's ability to absorb more sound. Ultimately, the combination of the top and bottom housings in each switch will affect different aspects of the sound and feel when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Starting with the actuation force, the Baby Kangaroo requires 59 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Ginger Milk requires slightly lighter 50 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range, providing a substantial typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Baby Kangaroo requires 67 grams of force to fully press the switch, while the Ginger Milk requires 63.5 grams. Therefore, the Baby Kangaroo is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force.
Considering the weight aspect, some individuals may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Ginger Milk, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This makes it suitable for extended periods of work or gaming. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Baby Kangaroo, with its slightly heavier actuation force.
Overall, while there are some differences in the actuation and bottom out forces between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and Jwick Ginger Milk switches, they both fall into the medium-heavy range. Therefore, individuals can expect similar results in terms of typing experience, with slight variations in force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the travel distance of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is 3.7 mm. Comparing these two, it can be observed that the Ginger Milk has a slightly longer travel distance than the Baby Kangaroo. Although both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the traditional distance, the Ginger Milk provides a slightly deeper feel when pressed compared to the Baby Kangaroo. This could be beneficial for individuals who prefer a more substantial key press. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo's shorter travel distance might be preferable for gamers or those seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired tactile 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 Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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 tactile switch offers a unique experience. Users have reported a crisp, light switch-like tactility, accompanied by a marbley sound profile. This sound is resonant, high-pitched, and clean, reminiscent of tapping on a solid piece of marble or the collision of billiard balls. It provides a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a more muted, snappy sound profile. It is described as neutral, with a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. However, since the sound of a switch is influenced by other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used, it's important to consider these variables as well.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch is known for its snappy and bouncy characteristics. These switches are super responsive, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, providing a more lively typing experience. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish. This leads to reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offers a buttery feel. The term "buttery" suggests a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, where the typing sensation is seamless, effortless, and uniform.
Considering all available information, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo switch provides a unique experience with its marbly, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, along with its snappy, bouncy, and polished feel. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switch offers a more muted, snappy sound profile, along with a buttery, smooth, and effortless feel. While these switches have their individual characteristics, it's important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the overall satisfaction and typing experience. It is recommended to consider personal preferences, typing style, and the desired typing experience when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a tactile feel and a marbley sound profile, then the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch would be a great choice for you. It provides a crisp and light switch-like tactility, along with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Additionally, it offers a snappy and bouncy feel, making your typing experience feel more alive. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy linear switch with a muted and snappy sound profile, then the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch would be the better option. It offers a silky smooth and approachable push feel, along with a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. The Ginger Milk switch provides a buttery and seamless typing sensation, giving you a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for tactility, sound, and feel.
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