Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Durock Koala both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo switch is celebrated for its crisp and light tactile feedback, accompanied by a distinctive marbley sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Koala strikes a balance by providing a noticeable bump without being overwhelming, making it ideal for those who enjoy a slightly more pronounced tactility. While the Baby Kangaroo is labeled as 'Clacky' and 'Resonant', the Koala is described as 'Accented' and 'Neutral'. Both switches offer a polished typing experience, but with different levels of pitch and stiffness. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Durock Koala both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material choice leads to a more clear and resonant sound due to polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. Both switches offer a similar sound profile and aesthetics with their polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Durock Koala both utilize nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This material choice affects the typing experience, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. Both switches provide a similar typing experience with their nylon bottom housings, offering a satisfying sound profile for users.
When comparing the two switches, the choice of housing materials significantly impacts the overall sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper sound profile, they differ in their bottom housings with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) using nylon and the Durock Koala also utilizing nylon. These differences in bottom housing materials affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. Ultimately, users can expect a similar deep and full sound experience from both switches due to their nylon bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it's clear that the Baby Kangaroo is the lighter option with an actuation force of 59 grams, while the Koala's actuation force remains unknown. However, both switches share a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. The actuation force is crucial for determining the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force indicates the pressure needed to fully press the key. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, the Baby Kangaroo might be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Koala for its potentially heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch by Gateron has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Durock Koala tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the longer travel distance of the Koala may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and what feels most comfortable during typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so trying out both may be the best way to determine which one suits your needs best.
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 Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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) switch is known for its clacky and marbly profile, offering a sharp and crisp sound with a hint of resonance. On the other hand, the Durock Koala switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound, presenting a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on personal preference, the Baby Kangaroo switch may be more appealing to those who enjoy a brighter and sharper sound, while the Koala switch suits those looking for a more subdued and mellow typing experience.
Moving on to feel, both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Durock Koala switches share the descriptor of being polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the Baby Kangaroo switch is also described as snappy and bouncy, offering a responsive and lively feel due to longer or dual-staged springs. In contrast, the Durock Koala switch is highlighted for its accented tactility, providing a medium amount of tactility that is prominent without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the Koala switch is noted for its stepped feature, offering a more mild tactile sensation compared to switches with a single large bump.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Durock Koala switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo switch excels in providing a bright and crisp sound with a responsive and bouncy feel, perfect for those seeking a noticeable tactile feedback and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Koala switch delivers a mellow and neutral sound with a polished and accented feel, making it an ideal choice for users looking for a smoother and more moderate tactile sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the chosen switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a crisp, light tactility with a unique marbley sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke and provides a bit of resonance without being overly loud, the Durock Koala might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking.
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