Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, but can't decide between a tactile or a linear switch? Look no further, as we have two excellent options for you to consider. Introducing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo, a tactile switch, and the Durock Mamba, a linear switch. The Baby Kangaroo is best known for its crisp, light switch-like tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience. It also boasts a unique marbley sound profile, adding a touch of elegance to your keyboard. On the other hand, the Mamba pays tribute to the legendary Kobe Bryant and offers a gliding typing sensation. Its rich and creamy auditory experience sets it apart from other linear switches. Both switches have their unique qualities, making them desirable choices for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Durock Mamba provide distinct differences in sound profiles. The Baby Kangaroo utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, providing a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Mamba's top housing is made of a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE. This blend offers a pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. While both switches have different top housing materials, they both provide enjoyable auditory experiences with their individual characteristics.
In terms of bottom housing, the Baby Kangaroo features a nylon material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer nature allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Mamba utilizes a POM bottom housing. This material creates a pleasing and unique sound profile, with a deeper tone that is relatively more muted. By having different bottom housing materials, the switches offer varying sound experiences that can be customized to personal preferences.
When considering the overall typing experience, the materials of both the top and bottom housings play a crucial role. The bottom housing has a more prominent impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Therefore, with the Baby Kangaroo's nylon bottom housing, users can expect a deeper and fuller sensation. Similarly, the Mamba's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound and muted feel on the downstroke. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. With the Baby Kangaroo's polycarbonate top housing, a sharper and crisper sound can be expected upon key release. Likewise, the Mamba's polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a brighter sound profile when letting go of a key. Despite these differences, both switches provide satisfactory typing experiences, ensuring that users can find a suitable match based on their preferences and desired sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, some key differences arise. The Gateron Baby Kangaroo has an actuation force of 59 grams, slightly lighter than the Mamba with an unknown actuation force. In terms of the bottom out force, the Baby Kangaroo requires 67 grams of force, making it slightly heavier than the Mamba's 60 grams. Therefore, if weight is a significant factor, those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Baby Kangaroo more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. However, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Mamba, as it offers a slightly heavier bottom out force. Overall, while the actuation forces are different, the bottom out forces result in similar medium-heavy sensations for the Baby Kangaroo and medium force for the Mamba.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Baby Kangaroo has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Mamba has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Although the difference may seem small, it can have an impact on the overall typing or gaming experience.
For those who prefer a shorter travel distance, the Baby Kangaroo would be the better choice. With its 3.4 mm travel distance, it offers a slightly faster response time, making it a popular option among gamers seeking quick and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Mamba with its 3.5 mm travel distance provides a slightly deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys, which some individuals may find more satisfying.
It is important to note that both travel distances are relatively close to each other, falling within the range of what is considered typical or traditional. Additionally, personal preference plays a significant role in determining which travel distance is preferred. Some individuals may find the difference of 0.1 mm insignificant, while others might notice and appreciate the distinction.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, and the Durock Mamba linear switch offers a slightly longer distance of 3.5 mm, both switches provide similar results and can be suitable options depending on individual preferences.
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 Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 switch offers a unique auditory experience. It has been described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound is crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo switch has a marbly sound profile, which means it is resonant, high-pitched, and clean. Imagine tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. This switch also has a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch has a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use it at home or work. The Mamba switch also has a thocky sound profile, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Think of a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released.
Moving on to feel, the Baby Kangaroo switch offers a snappy and bouncy typing experience. It is super responsive, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, making typing feel more alive. The keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving you rebound when pressed. Furthermore, the Baby Kangaroo switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This switch has reduced friction and offers smooth key travel.
Similarly, the Durock Mamba switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. It offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of the Mamba switch are approachable to most users, as its qualities fall in a safe, middle-ground zone. Like the Baby Kangaroo switch, the Mamba switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo switch provides a clacky and marbly sound profile, along with a snappy and bouncy typing experience. It has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Mamba switch offers a neutral sound profile along with a thocky typing experience. It also has a polished finish, providing smooth key travel. Both switches excel in different aspects, providing users with options based on their preferences. However, if you are aiming for a similar result in terms of sound and feel, either switch can deliver a satisfying experience depending on the other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a crisp, light tactile feedback and a clacky, marbly sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo is an excellent choice. The snappy and bouncy feel of these switches, combined with their polished finish, provides a responsive and sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a gliding typing sensation and a rich, creamy auditory experience, the Durock Mamba linear switch is a great option. Its neutral sound profile makes it suitable for various purposes, and the mild feel of these switches ensures a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the polished finish of the Mamba switches guarantees reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In summary, the Baby Kangaroo is ideal for those who prioritize a tactile feedback with a clacky and marbly sound, as well as a snappy and bouncy typing feel. Meanwhile, the Mamba is perfect for individuals who prefer a linear switch with a gliding typing sensation and a rich, creamy sound, coupled with a mild and polished feel. Consider your sound, feel, and bottom-out force preferences to determine which switch suits you best.
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