Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly influence your typing feel and experience. The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2), a tactile switch, is celebrated for its crisp and lightweight tactility, creating a delightful marbly sound profile that adds a unique auditory dimension to your keystrokes. It delivers a "snappy" and "bouncy" sensation, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a tactile response without overwhelming noise. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic represents a modern take on the clicky switch, enhancing the traditional clicky sound with smooth factory lubing and innovative dual-railed stems, ensuring that users enjoy satisfying auditory feedback alongside a buttery smoothness. This switch is ideal for those who crave a more pronounced click while maintaining a high level of refinement. Each switch offers distinct advantages depending on your typing preferences and acoustic environment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits 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
4.00 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 Melodic switches both feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housings, leading to remarkably similar acoustic qualities. Polycarbonate, known for being a relatively stiff plastic, enhances the sound profile of these switches, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. This use of polycarbonate in the top housing also facilitates RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for better illumination. Thus, users can expect a vivid lighting display with both switches, making them appealing options for those who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance.
In contrast, both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Melodic utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which significantly influences the overall sound and feel of the switches. Nylon is a classic switch material recognized for its ability to absorb sound, producing a deeper and fuller profile. The softer nature of nylon contrasts with the stiffer polycarbonate, resulting in a unique blend of qualities in these switches. When typing on either switch, users will experience a more rounded and muted auditory feedback from the bottom-out sound due to the nylon material. As a result, while the top housing contributes to the clickiness and resonance during release, the bottom housing ensures a satisfying, softer landing.
In summary, while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Gateron Melodic switches share the same acoustic properties from their polycarbonate top housings, the differentiation lies in the textile influence of their nylon bottom housings. The resonance and clarity provided by the polycarbonate tops, coupled with the rounded, softer sound of the nylon bottoms, create a well-rounded typing experience. Consequently, both switches offer similar auditory outcomes when pressed down, thanks to the warmth and depth provided by nylon, while also delivering a crisp release sound owing to polycarbonate, ensuring that typing feels cohesive and satisfying in either case.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, notable differences emerge. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a firmer actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, classifying it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, while the Melodic clicky switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, its actuation force is unknown, leaving a gap in the comparison. However, assuming a range that is typical for medium switches, it can be speculated that the actuation force for the Melodic might be lighter than the Baby Kangaroo's. This suggestion aligns with the general preference some typists have for lighter switches, making it easier for extended typing or gaming sessions. Therefore, if the Melodic's actuation force turns out to be lighter than 59 grams, it would cater to those who favor a less strenuous typing experience, while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would suit those seeking a more robust tactile feedback with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Melodic clicky switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and provides a heartier feel when pressed. This difference means that users who prefer faster response times might favor the Baby Kangaroo (V2) due to its shorter travel distance, which aligns with the trend in gaming keyboards. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper keystroke might find the Melodic switch more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback and response time.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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) and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch each provide unique auditory experiences, though they share some similarities. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a clacky and marbly sound profile, characterized by sharp, bright, and resonant tones that deliver a crisp auditory experience reminiscent of high-pitched percussion. On the other hand, the Melodic switch offers a delightful, crunchy sound typically associated with clicky switches, combined with a clean resonant quality. Both switches emit higher-pitched sounds that captivate the listener, promoting an engaging typing experience that may vary depending on the keyboard and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the differences between the two switches are more pronounced. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is designed to be snappy and bouncy, providing a lively typing experience with a polished sensation due to its factory lubrication. This combination allows for quick response times and a feeling of springiness when keys are pressed. In contrast, the Melodic switch boasts a buttery and invigorating feel, which emphasizes a smooth keystroke experience while still delivering notable feedback. The tactile nature of the Melodic switch offers a moderate to firm actuation force, resulting in a reactive and immersive typing sensation. Although both switches provide a responsive experience, the Baby Kangaroo leans more towards a vibrant, energetic feel, while the Melodic prioritizes a smooth, fluid touch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer exciting characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is ideal for those seeking a lively, tactile experience with a sharp sound, while the Melodic is suited for users who prefer the classic clicky feel accompanied by smooth operation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on the qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch, as both can lead to satisfying typing experiences but in notably different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the kind of sound and feel you desire in your mechanical keyboard. If you enjoy a medium-heavy switch with a crisp, light tactility and the unique marbley sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is an excellent option. Its snappy and bouncy characteristics are sure to provide a responsive and lively typing experience, making it ideal for both productive tasks and casual gaming. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a classic clicky sound with a slightly lighter actuation force, the Gateron Melodic might be your best bet. With its smooth factory lubing and crunchy auditory feedback, it perfectly balances the satisfying click you crave with buttery typing motions, providing a delightful experience for both typing and gaming enthusiasts. Ultimately, consider what you prioritize most in your keyboard experience—whether it’s the tactile nature and unique sound of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) or the invigorating feedback and nostalgic click of the Melodic.
Mentioned in this article
