Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Outemu Lime
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Lime switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are super excited to be offering these Baby Kangaroo switches, known for their crisp, light switch-like tactility and marbley sound profile. These switches are categorized as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'High-pitched', 'Resonant', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Lime switches are incredibly unique, being lightweight, featuring an approachable tactility, and being silenced. These switches are perfect for tactile fans who want a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility. The Lime switches fall under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Outemu Lime switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches have a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. The nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sounding key press. This characteristic is present in both switches, making them ideal for those seeking a more muted and satisfying typing experience.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the two switches differ. The Baby Kangaroo features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, making it particularly appealing for users who prioritize a distinct and prominent typing sound. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate allows for better illumination when using RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of these switches.
In contrast, the Outemu Lime utilizes a nylon top housing. While still providing a solid and satisfying typing experience, the nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a slightly duller and rounder sound profile compared to the polycarbonate housing of the Baby Kangaroo. Typing on the Lime switches evokes a deeper and fuller sound, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter and more mellow typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Outemu Lime switches offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials. The Baby Kangaroo's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the Lime's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a similar overall typing experience, offering a deeper and rounder sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Baby Kangaroo switch has a comparatively higher actuation force of 59 grams, while the Lime switch requires only 35 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that the Lime switch is lighter in terms of actuation force. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, whereas the Lime switch requires 45 grams to bottom out. Therefore, the Baby Kangaroo switch is also heavier in terms of bottom out force.
Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Lime switch more suitable for their needs. The lighter actuation force of the Lime switch allows for effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger and more substantial typing feel may opt for the Baby Kangaroo switch. Its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying push and greater tactile feedback.
However, if one desires a similar typing experience, where both actuation and bottom out forces yield comparable results, the Lime switch might be selected as it is significantly lighter in both aspects compared to the Baby Kangaroo switch. Ultimately, the choice of switch will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience for each individual.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it is evident that the Baby Kangaroo has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Lime has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Although the difference between the two switches is minimal, it can still be a factor to consider when selecting a switch for your keyboard. The Baby Kangaroo falls within the range of a more traditional travel distance, providing a moderate depth to the key press. On the other hand, the Lime offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which can be beneficial for gamers seeking quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the Baby Kangaroo and the Lime depends on personal preference and the desired level of key press responsiveness.
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 Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40 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
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo is known for its crisp, light switch-like tactility and a marbley sound profile. It produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, which can be described as sharp, bright, and percussive. The sound is resonant and clean, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Lime switch is lightweight and silenced, offering a feathery light typing experience with a subtle and muted sound profile. It has a neutral sound with a softer and quieter noise compared to regular or clacky switches.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo switch is snappy, bouncy, and polished. It has a super responsive typing experience and provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The keys feel lively and offer rebound when pressed. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Lime switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience. It has a gentle resistance and requires little exertion from the fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The switch also provides a subtle and polished feel, maintaining a light typing feel and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Outemu Lime switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with crisp tactility, while the Lime switch offers a muted and neutral sound with approachable tactility. In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo switch is snappy, bouncy, and polished, while the Lime switch is mild, feathery, and polished. Depending on personal preferences, one can choose the switch that best suits their desired sound and typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a crisp, light switch-like tactility, along with a clacky and marbly sound profile, then the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch would be the perfect choice for you. Additionally, if you prefer a snappy and bouncy feel with a polished finish, this switch will provide a sleek and responsive typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light bottom out force and an approachable tactility, along with a neutral and muted sound profile, the Outemu Lime tactile switch would be the ideal option. This switch offers a feathery feel, reducing finger fatigue and providing comfort during extended typing sessions. It also features a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force, a crisp sound profile, and a snappy feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switch is the one for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and a feathery feel, the Outemu Lime switch is the better choice. Consider your typing preferences and requirements to make an informed decision.
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