Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch. The Baby Kangaroo offers a distinctive tactile experience with a crisp, light tactility and a unique marbley sound profile, providing a clacky and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch is known for its high-pitched yet muted sound, offering a smooth and polished typing feel with a low bottom-out force for extended typing sessions. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the PH Studio Milk Tea, a clear distinction can be seen in their top housing materials. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for RGB lighting setups. In contrast, the Milk Tea features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique audio experience. While both materials excel in creating distinct sound profiles, the choice between polycarbonate and POM depends on the desired sound aesthetic.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a satisfying typing experience. Similarly, the Milk Tea also features a POM bottom housing, delivering a deep and muted sound profile that complements its top housing material. Both nylon and POM bring their own qualities to the switches, contributing to the overall typing experience for users.
When considering how the housing materials of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Milk Tea impact the overall typing experience, it is essential to recognize the role each material plays in sound production. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Baby Kangaroo (V2) creates a unique balance of sharpness and depth in sound, while the POM materials in the Milk Tea offer a consistent and pleasing audio experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profiles and typing feel, as each housing material offers its own set of characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in their performance. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea offers a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, delivering a lighter and smoother keystroke. The difference in force between the two switches can greatly impact the typing experience of the user. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended periods of typing or gaming, the Milk Tea would be the ideal choice. Conversely, those seeking a more substantial push feel may find the Baby Kangaroo (V2) to be more suited to their preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's 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 PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Milk Tea has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Baby Kangaroo. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for producing a clacky and marbly sound profile, giving users a crisp and resonant auditory experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique combination of a high-pitched sound with a muted essence, creating a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. Both switches provide a distinct sound profile that can enhance the typing experience for users.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch is described as snappy and bouncy, offering a responsive and lively typing experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch provides smooth key travel and reduced friction. Similarly, the Milk Tea switch is also described as polished and silky, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience for users. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of typing during prolonged typing sessions.
Overall, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch emphasizes a clacky and marbly sound profile with a snappy and bouncy feel, the Milk Tea switch provides a high-pitched sound with a muted essence, along with a polished and silky feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a crisp, light tactility and a unique marbly sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter linear switch with a high-pitched yet muted sound profile, designed for prolonged typing sessions and effortless keystrokes, then the Milk Tea switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.