Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact the typing experience and overall performance, making it essential to find the one that suits your preferences. The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) is a tactile switch renowned for its crisp, light tactility and a marbley sound profile that provides an engaging and immersive typing experience. Its clacky, polished characteristics make it a favored choice for typists who enjoy feedback with each keystroke, enhancing both comfort and satisfaction during prolonged use. In contrast, the HMX KD200, classified as a linear switch, shines in its ability to deliver a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, appealing to gamers and fast typists who require speed and precision over tactile feedback. The KD200 is noted as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, drawing those who cherish a unique auditory experience and responsive performance. Each switch has its merits depending on your typing style and intended use, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Ly
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX KD200, we find significant differences in their top housings, which greatly influence the overall acoustic profile of each switch. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This material enhances the switch's resonance, making it ideal for users who appreciate a clear sound, especially in setups with RGB lighting where the translucency of the polycarbonate shines through. Conversely, the KD200 features a nylon top housing. Being a softer plastic, nylon tends to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and rounder sound profile. This fundamental difference in housing materials provides distinct acoustic experiences for each switch, catering to different preferences among typists and gamers.
In terms of bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon. This consistency in material leads to similarities regarding the bottom-out feel and sound profile. Since both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the KD200 rely on nylon for their bottom housings, they share a generally similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound. The properties of nylon, being more forgiving and sound-absorbing compared to harder plastics, contribute to a more muted and pleasant bottom-out experience when pressing down on the switches. Thus, despite their differing top housing materials, the compatibility of nylon in the bottom housings ensures that the overall typing experience remains cohesive across both switch types.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and HMX KD200 lead to unique sound profiles that can satisfy different auditory preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2)'s polycarbonate top enhances brightness and resonance, while the nylon top of the KD200 provides a deeper and more rounded sound. Nevertheless, the shared nylon bottom housing creates a bridge between the two, with both yielding satisfying tactile responses and similar acoustic characteristics at bottom-out. Therefore, while users can expect different tonal qualities from the top housing, the use of nylon in the bottom housing means they will still enjoy a similar lush and full sound profile during key presses.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience that some users prefer for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the HMX KD200 is significantly lighter, boasting an actuation force of just 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who type for extended periods or prefer a lighter feel. This means that the Baby Kangaroo is the heavier switch while the KD200 is lighter. The higher forces associated with the Baby Kangaroo may appeal to users seeking a firmer push, whereas the lower forces of the KD200 cater to individuals looking for ease during long typing sessions or gaming. Overall, users should choose based on their preferences for weight and typing experience, as the forces differ significantly between the two switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, there is a slight difference to note. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KD200 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Baby Kangaroo (V2) the shorter option between the two, offering a more responsive feel that is favored by gamers seeking quicker actuation. In contrast, the KD200, with its longer 3.5 mm travel distance, may provide a deeper and more satisfying experience for those who prefer a more substantial key press. Therefore, if you're looking for faster response times, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) is the better choice, while the HMX KD200 is suitable for users who appreciate a little more depth in their 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 KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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) excels with its unique combination of clackiness and a marbly sound profile. This switch offers a crisp, bright, and percussive sound that can be characterized as high-pitched and resonant, providing an immersive auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX KD200 switch is known to be the clackiest member of its family, suggesting it likely produces a loud, sharp sound as well. However, without additional descriptors for the KD200, it’s difficult to pinpoint its exact auditory qualities in comparison to the Baby Kangaroo. Therefore, while both switches are expected to deliver a lively sound experience, the specific tonal details of the KD200 remain unknown.
When discussing feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out with its snappy, bouncy response, making for an incredibly responsive typing experience. The switch provides a lively elastic feedback sensation, contributing to a more dynamic feel when typing. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch ensures smooth key travel, further enhancing its overall performance. On the other hand, information about the feel of the KD200 switch is not available, making it challenging to define its responsiveness, feedback, or smoothness. As such, completion of the comparison is hindered by a lack of detail regarding the KD200's tactile qualities.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) is characterized by its bright, crisp sound and engaging tactile feedback, the HMX KD200's sound and feel qualities remain largely undefined. Both switches promise engaging auditory experiences, though the Baby Kangaroo offers more specific descriptors of responsiveness and smoothness. Potentially similar results may be had with the KD200 in terms of sound, but the absence of detailed attributes leaves an incomplete picture of its overall performance. For those looking to dive deeper into mechanical keyboards, exploring various switches and their nuances will provide a better understanding of what suits individual preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch depends largely on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you favor a more tactile feedback with a medium-heavy actuation that delivers a snappy and bouncy feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is an excellent choice. Its crisp, marbly sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory experience, making it ideal for users who appreciate responsive keystrokes and a satisfying typing sensation. This makes it particularly suited for typists and gamers who thrive on the tactile feedback. Conversely, if you seek a lighter key feel for fast-paced gaming or a quieter typing experience, the HMX KD200 linear switch, with its 50 grams of bottom-out force, would be more appropriate. Known for its clackiness, this switch offers a distinct sound that can inject character into your keyboard without the tactile bump. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your priorities: opt for the Baby Kangaroo (V2) for tactile feedback and sound, or choose the KD200 for a lighter, more linear experience.
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