Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 present distinct yet appealing options, tailored for different typing preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is celebrated for its tactile response and unique sound profile, combining a crisp and light responsiveness with a "marbly" auditory experience that many users find enjoyable. Its characteristics—described as clacky, resonant, and snappy—make it an excellent choice for those who appreciate feedback and a lively typing sensation. In contrast, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 excels in providing a smooth, linear typing experience, characterized by its subtlety and effortless keystrokes. With generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, it offers a satisfying bottom-out feel while ensuring premium linear performance at an accessible price point. Ultimately, the decision between these switches hinges on personal preference for tactile feedback versus smoothness. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Huano Matcha Latte V2, it is evident that they have differing compositions for their top and bottom housings. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Matcha Latte V2 features a POK top housing. The polycarbonate material in the Baby Kangaroo is known for providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as it is a stiffer material that enhances clarity and resonance. In contrast, the POK material of the Matcha Latte contributes to smoothness and durability, with its slightly higher coefficient of friction and wear resistance making for a different tactile experience. Although both top housings aim to improve sound and feel, they do so using differing principles—one prioritizing clarity and brightness and the other enhancing smoothness and durability.
For both switches, the bottom housing is made from nylon, which leads to shared acoustic properties when typing. Nylon is recognized for delivering a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. Consequently, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Matcha Latte V2 will produce a similar auditory experience when pressed fully down on the keys. In this way, even though the top housings introduce contrasting qualities, the nylon bottom housing harmonizes the overall sound signature toward a deeper, more rounded auditory result.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials between these two switches result in some contrasting sound profiles and user experiences, while their shared nylon bottom housing contributes a cohesive auditory element. Users can expect the Baby Kangaroo (V2) to offer a sharper, more resonant sound on release due to its polycarbonate top, while the Matcha Latte V2 provides a smoother and more durable experience thanks to POK's unique characteristics. However, once the keys are bottomed out, both switches will exhibit a deeper sound profile courtesy of the nylon bottom, providing a common ground that allows enthusiasts to enjoy the nuanced differences between the two.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation forces, which can influence user experience. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) boasts an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy resistance that some users may find satisfying for a substantial typing feel. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer less resistance, especially during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is unknown, which leaves a gap in understanding its overall pressure dynamics. As a result, if you’re looking for a heavier switch that's better for a firmer typing experience, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be the appropriate choice, while the lighter Matcha Latte V2 may be ideal for users seeking ease of use and comfort over long periods.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, one can see a notable difference. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Matcha Latte V2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you opt for the Baby Kangaroo, you will experience a shorter keypress, which can lead to quicker response times — an ideal choice for gamers or those who prefer a more immediate feel. On the other hand, the Matcha Latte V2, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying and deeper keystroke, catering to users who favor a more substantial pressing experience. Overall, choosing the shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo will result in a more responsive keypress, while the longer travel distance of the Matcha Latte V2 will enhance the depth of tactile feedback.
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 Huano Matcha Latte V2 comes in at $3.99 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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) produces a delightfully complex auditory experience characterized by a crisp and marbly profile. Descriptors like clacky and high-pitched encapsulate its sharp and lively nature, making each keystroke feel vibrant and engaging. Typing on these switches can resonate with a clean, resonant sound that's both immersive and satisfying, reminiscent of the collision of billiard balls. In contrast, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches do not have a specified sound profile available, but being linear switches, they generally offer a quieter typing experience without any distinct auditory feedback that tactile or clicky switches provide. This means that while the Baby Kangaroo switches deliver an exciting soundscape, the Matcha Latte V2 would present a more subdued, non-interruptive noise level during use.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) excels with a tactile responsiveness that is both snappy and bouncy. Users will appreciate the alive, spring-like feedback as the keys offer a satisfying rebound when pressed, making for an engaging typing experience. Additionally, these switches are polished, ensuring a smooth and refined key travel with minimal friction, further enhancing their overall usability. On the other hand, the feel of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 lacks specific descriptors, but as a linear switch, it is likely to provide a smooth and uninterrupted key press experience without the tactile bump or resistance found in tactile switches like the Baby Kangaroos. This means while one switch type evokes a dynamic and lively sensation, the other may offer an easy-flow keyboarding experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switches provide an engaging and rich auditory and tactile experience due to their high-pitched, clacky sound and responsive feel, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches offer a more subdued auditory experience and likely a smoother typing feel devoid of tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switch types comes down to personal preference: if you're drawn to a vivid sensation with varied sound, the Baby Kangaroo may be your ideal pick. Conversely, if you prefer a quiet and seamless typing experience, the Matcha Latte V2 could serve you well.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch ultimately depends on your typing style and personal preferences. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience that offers a crisp, snappy feedback along with a marbly sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) might be the ideal option for you. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams gives you a satisfying, responsive feel that can enhance your typing speed and comfort, making it suitable for both casual typing and gaming sessions where precision is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and seamless linear switch, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent choice. With its emphasis on a subtle yet satisfying linear feel and premium performance, it provides a quieter typing experience without the tactile bump, making it perfect for environments where noise levels matter. The generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble further ensure that your typing experience is consistently smooth. Overall, you should assess your priorities—whether you favor the engaging tactile feedback of the Baby Kangaroo or the silky smoothness of the Matcha Latte—to select the switch that best aligns with your typing needs.
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