Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are various factors to consider, such as tactility and sound profile. The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) is known for its crisp and light switch-like tactility, creating a unique marbley sound profile that is both satisfying and distinct. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a smooth and substantial feel, with a sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback for a gratifying typing experience. Both switches have their own set of characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The key difference between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro lies in their housing materials. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, they differ when it comes to their bottom housing material. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a rounder sound profile.
Despite the similarities in housing materials between the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, the distinction lies in how these materials impact the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing adds a sharper and crisper touch to the sound profile. This combination results in a unique sound experience for each switch, catering to different preferences in typing sound and feel. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro comes down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. Both switches offer a mix of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials, creating a balance between a clear, resonant sound and a fuller, absorbing sound. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched typing experience with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) or a deeper, rounder sound profile with the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, both switches deliver a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in switch housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch both lean towards the medium to medium-heavy range, with the Baby Kangaroo being slightly heavier. The Baby Kangaroo has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience, with the Baby Kangaroo offering a slightly firmer push feel compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro. Typists who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the V3 Matcha Green Pro for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Baby Kangaroo. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Akko V3 has a longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Baby Kangaroo. The Gateron switch with its shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quick response times, while the Akko switch with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the intended use of the keyboard.
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 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch is known for its unique combination of a clacky and marbly sound profile, creating a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience that can be likened to tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch also offers a clacky sound but with a resonant quality, resulting in a clean and sharp sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch is described as snappy and bouncy, offering a responsive and lively typing experience that is enhanced by the spring-like feedback sensation. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to a smooth and refined keystroke, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing experience. Conversely, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switch also offers a bouncy feel with a creamy and silky sensation, thanks to factory lubing and specific materials that result in a smooth and buttery typing experience. Both switches prioritize a responsive and tactile feel, but the specific nuances in feedback and smoothness may appeal to different users based on their typing preferences.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch provides a clacky and marbly sound with a snappy and bouncy feel, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch offers a clacky and resonant sound with a bouncy and creamy feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, tactile feedback, and overall typing experience, ensuring that you will get a satisfying result regardless of which one you choose.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, you should consider the key characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light tactile switch with a distinctive sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and appreciate a smooth, substantial keystroke with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out, then the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of feel and sound when typing or gaming.
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