Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Jupiter Banana mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they both offer unique features and qualities. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch is praised for its crisp, light switch-like tactility and marbley sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana switch stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, as well as the two-stage springs that ensure a strong return and consistent feel. While the Baby Kangaroo switch is described as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'High-pitched', 'Resonant', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished', the Jupiter Banana switch is categorized as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant'. Both switches have their own unique benefits and characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, offering a range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Spring steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Jupiter Banana are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience when using either switch due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, the housing materials differ when it comes to the bottom housing of the switches. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Jupiter Banana's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that typing on the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may have a slightly different feel and sound compared to the Jupiter Banana, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the differences in their bottom housings may offer distinct typing experiences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) with its nylon bottom housing may provide a deeper and fuller sound, while the Jupiter Banana's nylon bottom housing could result in a slightly different sound and feel. Ultimately, users may choose between the two switches based on their preference for sound profiles and typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch have similar actuation forces, both requiring 59 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, the Baby Kangaroo has a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Jupiter Banana has a bottom out force of 69 grams, making the Jupiter Banana slightly heavier in that aspect. This difference may result in a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of weight. Those who prefer lighter switches for longer typing or gaming sessions may opt for the Baby Kangaroo, while users who enjoy a bit more resistance may lean towards the Jupiter Banana. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is the same at 3.4 mm. This means that both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from top to bottom. They will both result in consistent feedback and actuation at the same depth, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for typing or gaming. So, whether you choose the Baby Kangaroo (V2) or the Jupiter Banana, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key travel distance.
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 Gateron Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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) tactile switch is known for its unique "marbly" sound profile, characterized by a resonant, high-pitched, and clean sound that can be compared to tapping on a solid piece of marble. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch also offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience. Both switches are likely to produce a similar result in terms of sound due to their shared high-pitched and resonant characteristics, although individual preferences may sway the choice between the two based on slight differences.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch is known for its "snappy" and "bouncy" tactile feedback, offering a responsive and lively typing experience. Additionally, the switch is described as "polished," indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch also features a polished finish for a sleek typing experience and is described as "creamy," providing a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. While the tactile feedback and smoothness may vary slightly between the two switches, users can expect a similar level of quality and comfort from both options.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch both offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo switch excels in providing a distinct "marbly" sound and snappy, bouncy feel, while the Jupiter Banana switch offers a high-pitched, resonant sound and a creamy typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound profile, tactile feedback, and typing experience, ensuring that newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world can find the perfect match for their needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, consider the bottom out force and sound profile that best suits your preference. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, a crisp and clacky sound profile, and a tactile switch with a snappy and bouncy feel, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force, a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, and a switch that feels polished and creamy to the touch, then the Jupiter Banana would be more suited to your preference. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences, so choose based on what feels and sounds best to you.
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