Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the PH Studio Jacaranda offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo switch boasts a tactile experience with a light switch-like tactility, creating a crisp and responsive typing feel accompanied by a distinctive marbley sound profile. On the other hand, the Jacaranda switch is a linear option with a gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, providing an easy and fatigue-free typing experience. It produces a clacky sound profile and is characterized by an extended 22mm spring, offering a bouncy sensation with each keystroke. While the Baby Kangaroo switch leans towards a bouncy and polished typing experience, the Jacaranda switch excels in its silky smoothness and resonant feedback. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the PH Studio Jacaranda, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate also allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Despite having the same housing material for the top, the two switches may offer different typing experiences due to variations in other components.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Jacaranda feature a nylon bottom housing. This material choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches may offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile due to the nylon bottom housing, other factors such as spring weight and stem design can still impact the overall feel of typing on each switch.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the PH Studio Jacaranda offers a balance between sharp, crisp sound and deep, full sound. The split between the two different housing materials allows for unique typing experiences, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite similarities in housing materials, differences in other components and design choices may still result in distinct typing experiences between the two switches.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) requires 59 grams to actuate and 67 grams to bottom out, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Jacaranda only needs 39 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, resulting in a lighter feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Jacaranda more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more significant push sensation may opt for the Baby Kangaroo (V2) for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking a faster response time, especially in gaming scenarios. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Jacaranda offering a slightly deeper keypress compared to the Baby Kangaroo. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the desired level of depth in keypresses.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch are described as producing a sharp and crisp clacky sound when pressed. However, the Baby Kangaroo also has a marbly and high-pitched sound profile, while the Jacaranda offers a resonant and high-pitched auditory experience. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch is known for its snappy and bouncy feedback, offering a lively typing experience. Additionally, it is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined finish that enhances key travel. On the other hand, the Jacaranda switch is characterized as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Upon considering all the available information, individuals seeking a tactile and bouncy typing experience with a diverse sound profile may find the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch to be a suitable option. Alternatively, those looking for a smooth and silky typing experience with a crisp clacky sound may prefer the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, allowing users to tailor their keyboard typing experience to their liking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch versus the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a tactile switch with a crisp, light tactility along with a marbly sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a linear switch with a gentle feel, a clacky sound profile, and a bouncy sensation thanks to the extended 22mm spring, then the Jacaranda could be the ideal option. Remember, your typing experience is unique to you, so choose the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
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