Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Durock Ice King Tactile mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo is renowned for its crisp and light tactile experience, accompanied by a unique marbley sound profile that sets it apart. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile excels in providing a smooth typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump that elevates the act of typing to an art form. While the Baby Kangaroo switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched feel, the Ice King Tactile offers a silky and subdued touch. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Durock Ice King Tactile, we can see that both switches feature nylon bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. While both switches share this characteristic in their bottom housing material, the overall sound profile and typing experience may vary depending on other factors such as stem and spring material.
In contrast, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic leads to a clearer and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucent properties. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition allows for sound absorption, resulting in a different typing experience compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2).
Although the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Durock Ice King Tactile, both switches aim to provide a unique sound and typing experience for users. The split between the bottom and top housing materials allows for a combination of qualities in each switch, impacting both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key. While the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, the differences in the top housing materials – polycarbonate for the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and nylon for the Ice King Tactile – create distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences and usage scenarios.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch have very similar actuation and bottom out forces, with the Baby Kangaroo having a slightly lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Ice King's 58 grams. However, the Baby Kangaroo has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Ice King's 68 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of weight. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may lean towards the Baby Kangaroo, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Ice King. Overall, both switches offer a balance between actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, making them suitable for those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper keystroke, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to 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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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) switch is characterized by a clacky and marbly sound profile, offering a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is known for its subdued sound, providing a more dampened and subtle auditory feedback while typing. The choice between these two switches will significantly impact the overall sound profile of your keyboard setup, with the Baby Kangaroo offering a more resonant and high-pitched sound, and the Ice King Tactile presenting a smoother and quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch is described as snappy and bouncy, providing a responsive and energetic typing feel. Additionally, it is mentioned to offer a polished finish, ensuring a smooth and refined key travel experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is lauded for its silky and frictionless feel, delivering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. Furthermore, it is noted to have a stepped tactile sensation, offering a more subtle tactile bump compared to other switches. Both switches provide unique tactile feedback and keystroke sensations, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Durock Ice King Tactile switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Baby Kangaroo provides a more resonant and snappy sound with a bouncy and polished feel, while the Ice King Tactile offers a subdued and silky sound with a smooth and frictionless typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a marbly sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a uniquely satisfying tactile experience with a creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, the Durock Ice King Tactile could be the better option. Additionally, if you prefer a clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile along with a snappy, bouncy, and polished feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may suit your preferences. Conversely, if you prefer a subdued sound profile along with a silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished feel, the Ice King Tactile might be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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