Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are distinct characteristics to consider. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a unique tactile experience with a crisp, light tactility and a distinctive marbley sound profile. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', and 'High-pitched', this switch provides a resonant and bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is known for its smooth and affordable typing experience. With buttery smooth keystrokes and a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound, this linear switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', and 'Thocky'. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
52g
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 main difference between the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) lies in their top housing material. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound compared to nylon. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the absorption of more sound by the softer plastic. While both materials have their distinct sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing is more ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches feature nylon, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that the typing experience on both switches will have a similar impact in terms of sound and feel. However, the split between top and bottom housing qualities means that the bottom housing will have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) differ in their top housing material, they both share nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing on the Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for RGB lighting applications, while the nylon top housing on the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for sound characteristics and any specific requirements for RGB lighting.
Weight
Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch. The Baby Kangaroo requires 59 grams of force to actuate and 67 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro only needs 45 grams to actuate and 52 grams to bottom out, classifying it as a medium-light switch. Those who prefer a lighter keystroke for long typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Milky Red Pro, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier Baby Kangaroo. Despite their differences, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces when using either switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch which has a travel distance of 4mm. This means that the Baby Kangaroo switch offers a slightly quicker key press compared to the Milky Red Pro switch. Gamers looking for quicker response times may prefer the Baby Kangaroo switch due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer more depth and a more traditional feel may lean towards the Milky Red Pro switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches provide different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so ultimately the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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) tactile switch is known for its clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile. This switch offers a sharp and snappy sound with a bright and percussive quality, along with a resonant, high-pitched, and clean tone reminiscent of tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is characterized by a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound. Users can expect a deeper and richer sound with a lower frequency range, providing a satisfying "thock" or "knock" when keys are pressed and released. The choice of sound between the two switches depends on personal preference and can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch offers a snappy, bouncy, and polished typing experience. With a super responsive and alive feel, these switches provide a spring-like feedback sensation and smooth, refined finish for reduced friction and sleek key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Users can expect a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation with these budget-friendly linear switches. Both switches provide unique tactile and linear feelings, catering to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities. The Baby Kangaroo switch excels in providing a crisp, bright, and marbly sound with a snappy and bouncy typing feel, while the Milky Red Pro switch delivers a deep, rich, and low-pitched sound with a buttery, smooth keystroke experience. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. However, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a crisp, light tactility and a marbley sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is the way to go. On the other hand, if you favor a medium-light bottom out force with a smooth and buttery keystroke experience paired with a pleasing low-pitched “thock” sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is a great choice. Consider your desired sound and feel when making your decision, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choose the switch that best suits your typing style and enhances your overall typing experience.
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