Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gateron Glory Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Glory Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Glory Red each offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is celebrated for its crisp, tactile feedback and a unique marbley sound profile, making it a delightful choice for those who enjoy an audible click and tactile sensation while typing. Its clacky and resonant characteristics contribute to a playful typing experience, perfect for users who appreciate that "snappy" feel and sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Red presents a smoother alternative with its lighter keystroke, allowing for a fluid typing experience that many find preferable for gaming or prolonged typing sessions. The satisfying travel distance enhances comfort, making it an appealing choice for those who value ease of operation and quietness in their keyboard usage. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Glory Red switches showcase differing sound profiles and tactile experiences primarily due to the distinct materials used for their top housings. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a higher-pitched, sharper sound profile. This is largely because polycarbonate is a stiffer material, leading to clearer sound resonance when typing. In contrast, the Glory Red switch opts for a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile characterized by its softer texture that absorbs sound more effectively. As such, while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may appeal to those seeking a more crisp auditory feedback, the Glory Red offers a warmer, rounded sound that could be preferable for a more subdued typing experience.
However, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which unites them in terms of some auditory characteristics. The nylon material in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound energy compared to the stiffer alternatives. When it comes to typing or bottoming out, the nylon bottom housing of both switches plays a crucial role in determining the tactile feel as well as the sound experienced. Thus, regardless of their differing top materials, the commonality in bottom housing offers a consistent deeper sound and tactile experience when keys are pressed down—a balance of auditory sensations that can positively influence user preference.
In essence, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Glory Red switches provide unique sound profiles attributed to their respective top housing materials, yet share a common ground with nylon in their bottom housings. This interplay between a softer, sound-absorbing nylon bottom and the contrasting top housing materials leads to distinctive typing experiences. Users looking for an engaging, high-pitched sound may gravitate towards the V2, while those who prefer a fuller auditory experience may find the Glory Red more to their liking. Nevertheless, since both switches employ nylon for the bottom housing, a sense of depth and resonance will remain a shared experience regardless of the top housing choice.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Glory Red switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who favor a softer touch and longer typing sessions; however, the bottom out force for the Glory Red is unknown. This means that while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a firmer feedback when bottomed out, the Glory Red could potentially offer a similar feel in actuation but lacks clarity on how it reacts upon bottoming out. Therefore, users seeking lighter keypresses for endurance should consider the Glory Red, while those who appreciate a heftier feel might lean towards the Baby Kangaroo (V2).
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Baby Kangaroo measuring 3.4 mm and the Glory Red measuring 3.6 mm. This makes the Baby Kangaroo the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel ideal for gamers seeking quicker actuations. Conversely, the Glory Red's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial depth in their keystrokes, offering a more pronounced tactile experience. While both switches are within the commonly accepted range for modern keyboards, the choice between them ultimately hinges on personal preference for depth versus speed in typing or gaming scenarios.
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 Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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) offers a distinctly vibrant auditory profile that many enthusiasts appreciate. The switch produces a clacky, crisp, and bright sound, which can be described as sharp and percussive, enhancing the typing experience with its engaging resonance. Additionally, the marbly qualities lend a unique, high-pitched character similar to tapping on a solid surface or the collision of billiard balls, resulting in a pleasing auditory backdrop. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Red linear switch does not have a specified sound profile, but linear switches are typically quieter in operation, so those seeking a more subdued auditory experience may lean towards the Glory Red.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is characterized by a responsive and dynamic typing experience, thanks to its snappy and bouncy nature. The tactile response is immediate, which can evoke a lively sensation during use, complemented by a polished finish that ensures smooth key travel with reduced friction. This creates an enjoyable and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Red switch, being a linear switch, likely offers a smooth keystroke devoid of tactile feedback. This smoothness can enhance the feeling of effortless key presses, making it suitable for users who prefer a more consistent keystroke without any bumps.
In summary, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) excels in both sound and feel, providing a crisp auditory experience along with a responsive tactile sensation that many enthusiasts adore. The Gateron Glory Red, while lacking specific sound and feel descriptors, offers a smooth linear experience that might appeal to those who prefer a quieter and more uniform keystroke. Choosing between these two primarily depends on personal preference regarding auditory feedback and tactile response; those who enjoy a lively, sharp experience may favor the Baby Kangaroo, while those seeking smoothness would likely be content with the Glory Red.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch largely depends on your personal typing style and preferences. If you enjoy a more tactile experience, characterized by a crisp actuation and a unique sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is an excellent choice. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 67 grams provides a satisfying feedback that many find engaging, especially if you appreciate the snappy response and bouncy feel it offers. This switch's clacky and marbly sound can also add a delightful auditory dimension to your typing experience, making it ideal for general typing or gaming scenarios where feedback and sound play vital roles. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke, the Gateron Glory Red linear switch is the way to go. Although specific bottom-out force details are unavailable, linear switches like the Glory Red typically feel lighter and are favored for rapid keystrokes, such as in competitive gaming where speed can be crucial. The absence of a tactile bump allows for seamless transitions between keystrokes, catering to those who prioritize fluidity and speed. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you desire tactile feedback and sound or if you seek a smooth and fast typing experience.
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