Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch. The Baby Kangaroo is known for its crisp, light switch-like tactility and marbley sound profile, falling under categories such as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', and 'Snappy'. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switches offer a clacky linear experience with a lightweight feel and audible feedback, categorized as 'Feathery' and 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches provide unique typing experiences, catering to different preferences and 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
37g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Jerrzi Orange utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, creating a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the sound experience. With both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, users can expect a similar auditory and aesthetic experience when using either switch.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange also includes a nylon bottom housing, offering users a similar tactile experience with a deeper sound profile compared to switches with different housing materials for the top and bottom.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Jerrzi Orange plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Jerrzi Orange impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a unique tactile response that is distinct from switches with different bottom housing materials. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches influences the sound when releasing a key, adding another layer to the overall typing experience. While both switches offer a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials, they provide users with different sound profiles and tactile responses based on the distribution of these materials.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Jerrzi Orange linear switch. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) requires 59 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 67 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange only needs 37 grams of force to actuate a keystroke, with no information available on the bottom out force. Typically, lighter switches like the Jerrzi Orange are preferred for longer typing or gaming sessions, while heavier switches like the Baby Kangaroo (V2) are chosen for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the lighter Jerrzi Orange may be preferable for those looking for a lighter typing experience, while the heavier Baby Kangaroo (V2) may suit those who prefer a more robust keypress.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Jerrzi Orange switch the longer of the two in terms of travel distance. In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying keystroke for some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the market, catering to those who prioritize quick and precise typing. Ultimately, deciding between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is renowned for its clacky and marbly sound profile, giving users a crisp, bright, and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch offers a more subdued clacky sound that is dampened and subtle compared to most switches. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Baby Kangaroo providing a resonant and high-pitched sound, while the Orange delivers a lively and audible feedback with each keystroke. Depending on personal preference and setup, users can achieve different sound profiles with either switch, making them both excellent choices for those who appreciate a distinct typing sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its snappy and bouncy feel, offering a responsive and lively typing experience. The keys have a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction for an overall sleek typing feel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch provides a feathery and easy-to-press sensation, requiring minimal force to activate keys and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience, with the Baby Kangaroo focusing on responsiveness and bounce, while the Orange emphasizes light actuation force and comfort.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo provides a clacky and marbly sound profile along with a snappy and bouncy feel, perfect for those seeking a vibrant and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange delivers a subdued clacky sound and a feathery, easy-to-press feel, catering to users looking for a smooth and light typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences and needs, both switches offer excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking distinct sound and feel characteristics. By selecting either switch, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of overall typing satisfaction, with each switch providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, consider the characteristics and preferences that resonate with you the most. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a tactile typing experience with a crisp and light tactility along with a marbley sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and value a clacky and lively typing experience with a lightweight and responsive feel, then the Jerrzi Orange switch could be the ideal option for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for bottom out force, tactility, sound profile, and typing feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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