Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. HMX Jelly
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Jelly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Jelly present quite a contrast in both feel and sound profile, appealing to different types of typists and gamers alike. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out with its tactile feedback, offering a crisp, light tactile sensation accompanied by a unique marbley sound that adds character to the typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a snappy response and lively acoustics, making it suitable for both typing and gaming enthusiasts who value engagement and feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Jelly offers a more subdued experience characterized by its deep, thocky sound signature and remarkably smooth keystrokes, thanks to its excellent factory lubrication and lightweight 42g actuation force. This linear switch is perfect for users who prefer a quieter, more effortless typing experience without the interruption of tactile bumps or clicks. Both switches have their own sets of advantages catering to distinct preferences, but they also come with trade-offs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your unique needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch and the HMX Jelly switch both employ different materials for their top housings, leading to distinct auditory experiences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which results in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This characteristic allows the switch to resonate clearly, making it particularly suitable for those who enjoy the auditory effects of RGB lighting, as the polycarbonate material enhances the overall visual appeal by allowing light to pass through effectively. In contrast, the HMX Jelly employs a nylon top housing, which is a softer material that absorbs sound more effectively. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile than that produced by polycarbonate, creating a rounder auditory experience that differs significantly from the sharper tones of the Baby Kangaroo (V2).
However, when assessing the bottom housings of both switches, the similarities between them become apparent. Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice that underscores the deeper, fuller sound profile typical of nylon. This commonality ensures that both switches will present a similar tactile experience in terms of sound when the switch bottoms out. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a softened impact noise when pressed, creating a distinct contrast to the sound characteristics of the top housing. Thus, while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and HMX Jelly may exhibit different top housing materials, they converge in their bottom housing, allowing for a fuller auditory experience grounded in nylon.
Ultimately, the interplay between the top and bottom housing materials in these switches highlights the distinctive sound profiles each switch presents. In the case of the Baby Kangaroo (V2), the polycarbonate top enhances the higher-pitched sounds released upon releasing the key, while the nylon bottom ensures a more muted bottom-out sound. Conversely, the HMX Jelly’s all-nylon construction results in a harmonized sound profile, offering a rounded sound experience from both the top and bottom. Therefore, while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may cater to those seeking a brighter sound profile, the HMX Jelly appeals to users desiring a deeper, more resonant auditory experience. The combination of these materials in each switch thus produces varied and enjoyable typing sensations with nuanced auditory results.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch with the HMX Jelly linear switch, a clear distinction is evident in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it suitable for those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Jelly switch is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of only 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, which caters to users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. This substantial difference means that users of the Baby Kangaroo will feel a firmer resistance when typing, while those with the HMX Jelly will enjoy a lighter feedback. Consequently, if one seeks a lighter option for casual or prolonged use, the HMX Jelly would be the preferable choice, while the Baby Kangaroo would appeal more to typists seeking a robust, tactile feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, we find that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jelly boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Baby Kangaroo the shorter option, catering to those who prefer a more responsive feel, which can be especially beneficial for gamers seeking quicker actuation. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Jelly switch may appeal to users who favor a more pronounced, tactile experience and a more substantial bottom-out when typing or gaming. Ultimately, selecting between these two options will depend on individual preferences for response time versus the sense of depth in keystrokes.
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 HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
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 unique auditory experience characterized by its clacky, marbley sound profile, which can be described as crisp and bright. This leads to a satisfying percussive sound during typing. Its high-pitched and resonant qualities contribute to a clean and engaging auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Jelly linear switch is renowned for its low-pitched, thocky sound signature, providing a deeper, more muted auditory experience that contrasts sharply with the Baby Kangaroo's vibrant tones. The Jelly's sound profile is more subdued, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing environment.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) excels with its snappy, bouncy tactile feedback, making each keystroke feel responsive and lively. The polished finish of these switches enhances the overall typing experience, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. This tactile nature is inviting for users who enjoy feedback from their switches. On the other hand, the HMX Jelly linear switch is designed for smoothness, featuring excellent factory lubrication for a seamless typing experience. The Jelly's lightweight actuation force further enhances the effortless feel that characterizes linear switches. While both switches provide distinct tactile sensations, the Baby Kangaroo prioritizes feedback and responsiveness, whereas the Jelly focuses on silky smoothness.
In summary, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Jelly linear switch cater to different auditory and tactile preferences in the mechanical keyboard space. The Baby Kangaroo delivers a lively and resonant sound along with a snappy and polished feel, ideal for those who seek an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Jelly offers a low-pitched, thocky acoustic signature alongside a super smooth feel that appeals to users who favor quiet and fluid keystrokes. Depending on your typing style and sound preferences, each switch can deliver a satisfying experience, but they certainly offer different characteristics that may influence your choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you desire from your keyboard. If you thrive on a medium-heavy tactile feel and appreciate a crispy, lively typing experience with a notable sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is an excellent option. It offers that appealing tactile bump along with a unique marbly and resonant sound that can enhance your overall engagement while typing. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy response and feedback, perfect for both typing and gaming where tactile preference plays a significant role. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter, smoother typing experience with a softer actuation force and a deep, thocky sound signature, the HMX Jelly linear switch would be the better choice. It’s designed for fluidity and ease of keystrokes, making it an excellent fit for long typing sessions where comfort and reduced fatigue are priorities, especially if you’re looking for quieter operation in shared spaces. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your specific preferences for tactility, sound, and overall typing feel to make the most satisfying choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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