Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are pleased to introduce two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches for your consideration: the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the SP-Star Meteor Orange. These tactile switches offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Baby Kangaroo switch is renowned for its crisp, light switch-like tactility, providing a satisfying feel and a distinct marbly sound profile. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch stands out for its exquisitely gentle tactility, offering a soft and seductive typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Both switches have their own merits, making them suitable choices for different individuals. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your specific preferences and typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Nylon
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 and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches have different housing materials, resulting in variations in their sound profiles. The Baby Kangaroo features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that resonates more clearly. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Baby Kangaroo and the Meteor Orange utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being softer than harder plastics, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. Therefore, both switches will share similarities in terms of the sound produced when typing, thanks to the common nylon material used in the bottom housing.
However, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in determining the sound profile. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. So, while the Baby Kangaroo and the Meteor Orange may share similarities in their bottom housings, the difference in their top housings, polycarbonate and nylon respectively, will result in variations in sound when keys are released.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, some notable differences arise. The Baby Kangaroo has an actuation force of 59 grams, while the Meteor Orange's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Baby Kangaroo requires 67 grams, whereas the Meteor Orange necessitates 57 grams. This makes the Baby Kangaroo slightly heavier in both aspects.
Weight is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can greatly impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter feel may find the Baby Kangaroo more suitable, as it allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue. This would be beneficial for individuals using their keyboards for work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial and tactile typing experience. For these individuals, the Meteor Orange, with its slightly lighter actuation and bottom out force, would be better suited to provide that desired level of feedback.
Though both switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, it is essential to note that they both fall within the medium range. Therefore, regardless of the choice made, users can expect a similar level of performance and responsiveness. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preference and the specific typing experience one desires.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have different travel distances. The Baby Kangaroo has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Meteor Orange has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Meteor Orange has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Baby Kangaroo.
In terms of preferences, the traditional travel distance is around 4.0 mm, so the Meteor Orange falls within that range. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo's travel distance is slightly shorter at 3.4 mm.
Gamers typically prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Baby Kangaroo a potential choice for those seeking more responsiveness. However, some individuals may find short travel distances to feel too abrupt. In contrast, the Meteor Orange may be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press experience due to its longer travel distance.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the SP-Star Meteor Orange will depend on personal preferences and typing/gaming style. Both switches offer different travel distances, so it is important to consider what feels more comfortable and natural for individual use.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switch provides a unique experience with its crisp and light switch-like tactility. Users can expect a distinctive marbley sound profile when using these switches, similar to the sound of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the collision of two billiard balls. The switch produces a resonant, high-pitched, and clean sound, resulting in an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch offers a more neutral sound profile. It is described as gentle, with a soft and seductive tactility. This switch has a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. If you prefer a sharp and percussive sound, the Baby Kangaroo switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a more neutral sound that is approachable and suitable for most users, the Meteor Orange switch would be the better option.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switch offers a snappy and bouncy sensation. The switch is super responsive, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, which makes the typing experience feel more alive. It provides a spring-like or elastic feedback, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This is attributed to both the materials used and factory lubing, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.
Similarly, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. It offers a gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This middle-ground zone of qualities makes it suitable for most users, providing a smoother typing experience. Like the Baby Kangaroo switch, it also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Baby Kangaroo switch provides a unique, clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile with a snappy and bouncy feel, the Meteor Orange switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a gentle and mild feel. Both switches have a polished finish for smooth key travel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can select the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and requirements. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a marbley sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo would be a great option for you. It offers a clacky and marbly sound that is resonant and high-pitched, providing a sharp and percussive typing sound. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo switch is known for its snappy and bouncy feel, which is responsive and provides a lively typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams and a soft and seductive tactility, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch would be more suitable. It has a neutral sound profile that is moderate and thocky, producing a deep and satisfying typing sound. The Meteor Orange switch offers a mild and polished feel, making it approachable to most users and providing a smooth and refined typing experience.
Ultimately, when deciding between these two switches, consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel that align with your preferences and typing style. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, so choose the one that resonates with you the most.
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