Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Jerrzi Honey Bean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Jerrzi Honey Bean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch to the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch, it becomes clear that each offers a unique typing experience. The Baby Kangaroo switch is praised for its crisp tactility and distinct sound profile, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a bouncy and polished feel while typing. On the other hand, the Honey Bean switch provides a smooth and light keypress, ideal for environments where noise reduction is a priority. While the Baby Kangaroo is known for its clacky and high-pitched feel, the Honey Bean offers a more muted and feather-like typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference and specific needs. 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
42g
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Jerrzi Honey Bean, it is evident that they both offer unique qualities to enhance the typing experience. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Honey Bean features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference for sound aesthetics.
When examining the bottom housing materials of the two switches, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) employs nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Honey Bean utilizes POM for its bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and muted sound profile. Both materials offer unique sound characteristics, with nylon providing a softer and rounder sound compared to the deeper sound produced by POM.
Overall, while the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Jerrzi Honey Bean feature different housing materials, they both strive to enhance the typing experience with unique sound profiles. Whether it be the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Baby Kangaroo (V2) or the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Honey Bean, each switch offers a distinct typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for sound aesthetics and the desired typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in their differences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Honey Bean boasts a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. This indicates that the Honey Bean switch is lighter in comparison to the Baby Kangaroo (V2). The actuation force is crucial for triggering keystrokes, while the bottom out force measures the amount of pressure needed to press a key fully. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for a heavier force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would largely depend on the individual's typing or gaming preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Honey Bean switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Baby Kangaroo switch. The 0.3 mm difference may not be significant, but it could affect the overall feel and response of the keyboard. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred for faster response times, making the Baby Kangaroo switch a good choice for gaming. On the other hand, the Honey Bean switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.
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, producing a sharp, snappy, and resonant noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch offers a muted sound, making it ideal for environments where noise reduction is important. The Baby Kangaroo switch will provide a more distinct and high-pitched sound experience compared to the Honey Bean switch, which focuses on maintaining a quiet typing environment.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is described as snappy and bouncy, offering a responsive and lively typing experience. The switch provides a polished feel with smooth key travel, reducing friction and enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch is highlighted for being easy-to-press and feathery, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This difference in feel between the two switches caters to different preferences in typing feedback and actuation force.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Baby Kangaroo switch provides a crisp and high-pitched sound with a snappy and bouncy feel, while the Honey Bean switch focuses on a muted sound and an easy-to-press, feathery feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or typing comfort, choosing between these two switches will ultimately provide a unique and satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch, consider the factors that are most important to you in a keyboard switch. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light tactility with a unique marbly sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a noiseless typing experience in a shared environment, with a bottom out force that is light and requiring minimal force to activate, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch would be an ideal option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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