Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Magnetic Jade are two standout options, each boasting unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is celebrated for its crisp, light tactility and a marbley sound profile that results in a typing experience that feels both responsive and engaging. Its attributes of clackiness and a high-pitched resonance create a playful auditory feedback that many users find enjoyable. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch introduces a hall effect mechanism, producing a bright and clacky sound that promises a superior typing experience enriched by enhanced acoustics, making it an ideal add-on for those upgrading their Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) shines with its tactile engagement and playful sound, the Magnetic Jade offers a sleek and modern alternative with its advanced technology. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Gateron Magnetic Jade both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a similar auditory experience when typing. The use of polycarbonate in both switches reveals an intention to produce a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness allows for a clearer resonance, enhancing the overall sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate makes these switches an excellent choice for RGB lighting setups, as the light passes through the clear housing, creating an appealing visual effect. Thus, when comparing the two, users can expect quite similar performance in terms of sound and aesthetic when it comes to the top housing.
On the other hand, when we examine the bottom housings of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Magnetic Jade, both are made from nylon, a traditional choice for switch housings. This material inherently absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softness of nylon allows for a rounder typing experience that contrasts with the sharper notes produced by the polycarbonate top. Thus, while both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, they share a commonality in their nylon bottom housings, which collectively create a balanced auditory profile. Users can expect similar results in terms of sound depth, thanks to the common use of nylon in the bottom housing.
With the distinct blend of materials in both switches, we witness how the differences between the top and bottom housings can affect the overall sound and feel. While both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Magnetic Jade will deliver a clear, crisp sound when you press down the keys due to their polycarbonate tops, the feel and bottom-out sound will be influenced by the nylon bottoms. The nylon's softer properties will create a contrasting warm audio profile when releasing the keys, ultimately offering a cohesive balance of auditory character. Therefore, despite slight nuances in other design factors, both switches lead to a surprisingly similar experience overall, showcasing how well the combination of these materials can work together for an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, there are clear distinctions that cater to different user preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy and providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade switch is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This lighter feel makes the Magnetic Jade ideal for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it requires less force, thus reducing finger fatigue. Conversely, those who prefer a firmer push and a more tactile experience might gravitate towards the Baby Kangaroo (V2). The differences in actuation and bottom out forces underscore how these two switches cater to distinct typing preferences, with the Baby Kangaroo being the heavier option and the Magnetic Jade providing a lighter alternative.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, we find that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Magnetic Jade features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Baby Kangaroo (V2) the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that gamers typically prefer for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Magnetic Jade, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced and hearty typing experience, as the added depth can prevent the feel from being too abrupt. Thus, while both switches are close in their travel distances, users may choose between them based on their preference for responsiveness versus depth in their key presses.
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 Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 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
When comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, the Baby Kangaroo is celebrated for its unique combination of a marbly resonance and crisp high-pitched tones. Users can expect a sound that is sharp and snappy, elevated by a clean, high-frequency output reminiscent of two billiard balls colliding. This prominent sound signature creates an engaging auditory experience for typists. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade switches are known to produce a bright and clacky sound, ideal for enhancing the auditory feedback of a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Both switches provide a notable auditory presence, yet their distinct sound characteristics cater to different preferences, with the Baby Kangaroo being more refined and resonant while the Magnetic Jade leans into a lively clackiness.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a tactile experience that can be described as snappy and bouncy, resulting in a highly responsive typing sensation. The switches are designed with longer or dual-staged springs, giving an elastic feedback that feels vibrant and engaging with each keystroke. Users can also expect a polished finish, which enhances the overall smoothness of the key travel, making for a refined typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no specific information detailing the tactile feedback or feel of the Magnetic Jade switches, leaving an unknown aspect of their performance.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switches cater to divergent preferences in sound and typing experience. The Baby Kangaroo is characterized by its marbly, high-pitched sound and lively, polished feel, whereas the Magnetic Jade offers a bright, clacky noise that promises a dynamic typing experience on compatible keyboards. Ultimately, the choice between these two will depend on an individual's preference for either a sharper resonance or a more aggressive clack, as well as the tactile nuances they prioritize in their mechanical keyboard journey.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch ultimately hinges on your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation coupled with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is an excellent option. Its snappy, bouncy feel and marbly sound profile provide an engaging typing experience that can make long typing sessions feel dynamic and enjoyable. This switch is perfect for users who appreciate a robust tactile feedback that enhances their productivity and makes every keystroke feel significant.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a bright, clacky sound, the Magnetic Jade switch may be the better choice. With its medium-light bottom out force and focus on superior acoustics, this switch caters well to those seeking a more effortless typing experience, especially in gaming environments where rapid successive keystrokes are beneficial. Both switches have their unique strengths, so consider your typing style and auditory preferences when making your final selection.
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