Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, both being tactile switches, you'll find distinctive characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out for its crisp and light tactile feedback, paired with a unique marbley sound profile, offering a clacky and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Lavender Purple V3 switches from Akko provide a higher-pitched sound profile along with a satisfying tactile bump, creating a bouncy and polished feel while typing. Depending on whether you prefer a more pronounced sound profile like the Baby Kangaroo or a smoother typing experience like the Lavender Purple Pro, you may find one switch more suitable to your preferences. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
20mm
Housing materials
While both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, they provide slightly different experiences. The polycarbonate used in the Baby Kangaroo (V2) contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for users who prefer a more distinct typing sound. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro also benefits from the characteristics of polycarbonate, creating a similar sound experience that is clear and resonant. Both switches are compatible with RGB lighting, thanks to the translucency of polycarbonate, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the keyboard setup.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, both switches opt for nylon, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to users looking for a more muted typing experience. Despite the difference in top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent typing sound and feel across both switches, creating a satisfying typing experience for users who value sound feedback.
In terms of typing experience, the choice of housing materials in both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro plays a significant role. While the top housing material influences the overall sound profile of the switch, the bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Users can expect a distinct and resonant sound when pressing down on keys, with the nylon bottom housing providing a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether opting for the Baby Kangaroo (V2) or the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, both switches offer a balance of tactile feedback and sound characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard setups.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the Akko V3 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. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. The actuation force of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is higher than that of the V3, making it require more force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is also higher than that of the V3, indicating that it is more substantial to press all the way down. In summary, while both switches offer a tactile typing experience, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the lighter Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter feel for longer typing sessions or a more substantial push for a stronger typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch. The difference may not be significant, but it can impact the overall typing experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times might lean towards the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper key press might opt for the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 known for its clacky and marbly sound profile with a high-pitched and resonant tone that provides a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile that complements its satisfying tactile bump, contributing to a delightful typing experience. While the specific descriptors for the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro are not provided, it can be inferred that the switch provides a unique sound profile that differs from the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2).
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is praised for its snappy and bouncy characteristics, offering a super responsive and lively typing experience. The polished finish adds to the smooth and refined key travel, resulting in reduced friction. Similarly, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is described as providing an accented tactility, a bouncy feel, and snappy response, while also featuring a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer an enhanced tactile feedback, making them suitable options for those seeking a tactile typing experience.
Overall, while the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switches may have different sound profiles and tactile characteristics, they both offer quality options for keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the sharp and crisp sound of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) or the higher-pitched tone of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique features. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of high-quality performance and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light tactile experience with a marbly sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and appreciate a higher-pitched sound profile along with a satisfying tactile bump, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and enjoy a delightful typing experience tailored to your liking.
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