Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Jupiter Red stand out as popular options with distinct features. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is a tactile switch that offers a crisp, light tactility and a unique marbley sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red is a linear switch known for its smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes and medium-heavy actuation, making it ideal for those who prefer a consistent typing experience. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is praised for its clacky and bouncy feel, the Jupiter Red is favored for its creamy and silky strokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences and typing style. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Jupiter Red, it is evident that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to polycarbonate's stiffness and clear resonance. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Despite the similarities in their top housing material, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Jupiter Red differ in their bottom housing material, with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizing a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing qualities, creating a duller and rounder sound experience.
The utilization of different bottom housing materials between the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Jupiter Red results in distinct typing experiences. Typing on the Baby Kangaroo (V2) with its nylon bottom housing will elicit a deeper and fuller sound, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the Jupiter Red's nylon bottom housing will also offer a similar experience in terms of sound profile, absorbing more sound to create a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. Despite the differences in their bottom housings, both switches maintain the crisp and clear sound profile associated with polycarbonate top housings, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
While the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Gateron Jupiter Red may have different bottom housing materials, their shared polycarbonate top housing ensures a consistent sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This similarity in top housing material means that both switches will offer a similar sound experience when letting go of a key, thanks to the resonant properties of polycarbonate. Ultimately, whether typing on the Baby Kangaroo (V2) with its nylon bottom housing or the Jupiter Red with its nylon bottom housing, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Red is the lighter of the two. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls in the medium range. Those who prefer a lighter feel and a smoother keystroke may opt for the Jupiter Red, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Baby Kangaroo (V2). Despite the variances in force, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing intensity.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is evident that the Baby Kangaroo has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm while the Jupiter Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo may appeal to gamers seeking a faster response time, as shorter distances are known for quicker actuation. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Jupiter Red may provide a more substantial and satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for responsiveness and keypress depth.
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 Red 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 offers a unique experience with a blend of clacky and marbly attributes, resulting in a crisp, bright, and resonant sound profile that can be likened to tapping on solid marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch presents a neutral sound profile that falls in the moderate range, suitable for various use cases and preferences. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Jupiter Red linear switch share the characteristic of being polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and seamless key travel. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo switch offers a snappy and bouncy feel, making it super responsive and lively to type on. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red switch introduces a creamy and silky sensation, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance during key presses and releases.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch differ in their sound and unique tactile attributes, they both excel in providing a polished and smooth typing experience. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound profiles, tactile feedback, and overall typing feel. Regardless of the choice made, users can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch experience with either option.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when selecting between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider the following factors. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and prefer a tactile switch with a crisp, light tactility and a unique marbley sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and value a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a single-stage spring, along with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red linear switch may be more suitable for your preference. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be more appealing to you, while the neutral sound profile of the Jupiter Red may be preferred if you are looking for a more moderate sound experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences in terms of sound and feel.
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