Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the TTC Light Cloud V2. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is a tactile switch known for its crisp and light tactility, with a unique marbley sound profile during use. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 is a linear switch that offers a silent typing experience with a refined feel, thanks to its lightweight nature. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is characterized by a clacky and resonant typing sensation, the Light Cloud V2 is described as mild and muted, providing an easy-to-press and feathery touch. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the TTC Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a more resonant and clear sound thanks to its polycarbonate top housing, the Light Cloud V2 provides a rounder and duller sound with its nylon top housing.
Both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Light Cloud V2 have nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder. While the material of the bottom housing may be the same for both switches, the impact of the bottom housing's qualities will be felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing material between the polycarbonate top housing of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the nylon top housing of the TTC Light Cloud V2 will have a significant impact on the sound profile of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) will create a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Light Cloud V2 will produce a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the depth and fullness of the sound profile. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials contribute to unique typing experiences for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it's evident that the Light Cloud V2 is the lighter option. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2 boasts a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Baby Kangaroo (V2) for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Although the travel distance of both switches is relatively close, with just a 0.1 mm difference, the Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch. In terms of responsiveness, gamers may prefer the Baby Kangaroo (V2) due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing, the slightly longer travel distance of the Light Cloud V2 may be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on 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 TTC Light Cloud V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Cloud V2 for $5.49.
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, producing sharp and crisp sounds with a resonant quality. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is described as muted and neutral, offering a softer and quieter typing experience. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch will provide a more pronounced and high-pitched sound, while the Light Cloud V2 switch offers a more subtle and gentle sound that is suitable for a quieter environment. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is acknowledged for its snappy and bouncy nature, providing a responsive and lively typing experience. The keys feel polished, offering a smooth and refined typing sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offers a mild and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force for key activation. The switches feel feathery, ensuring a comfortable and low-impact typing experience. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch provides a more dynamic and energetic key press, while the Light Cloud V2 switch offers a gentler and effortless typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended use.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch provides a more pronounced and lively typing experience with its sharp and resonant sound profile, while the Light Cloud V2 switch offers a quieter and more gentle typing experience that is suited for a variety of settings. Depending on your preference for sound and key feel, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and prefer a tactile switch with a crisp, light tactility and a pronounced sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and seek a silent switch with a refined and delicate typing feel, then the Light Cloud V2 would be the better option. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to determine which one aligns more with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Light Cloud V2 switch will depend on what kind of typing experience you value most.
Mentioned in this article
