Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch to the Cherry MX Red linear switch, there are distinct differences in their characteristics. The Baby Kangaroo is loved for its light, crisp tactility and marbley sound profile, providing a unique typing experience categorized as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'High-pitched', 'Resonant', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is celebrated for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. Both switches have their strengths, with the Baby Kangaroo providing a more tactile and vibrant typing experience, while the Cherry MX Red offers a more solid and deep typing experience. 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Cherry MX Red, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing. This means that users can expect a similar experience in terms of sound profile when typing on these switches. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's ability to absorb sound and create a rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users of both switches can enjoy a satisfying typing experience with a similar acoustic profile.
On the other hand, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Cherry MX Red utilizes a nylon top housing. This difference in top housing material brings a distinct sound profile to each switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, enhancing the overall typing experience with clear and resonant tones. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, providing users with a more mellow and rounded typing experience. These differences in top housing material highlight the unique audio characteristics that each switch can offer users.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Cherry MX Red will depend on the user's preference for sound profile. Those who enjoy a sharper and crisper sound may prefer the Baby Kangaroo (V2) with its polycarbonate top housing, while others who prefer a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Cherry MX Red with its nylon top housing. However, with both switches utilizing nylon in their bottom housing, users can expect a similar sound experience in terms of depth and fullness when typing on either switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is heavier in both aspects. The Baby Kangaroo has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Cherry MX Red may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier actuation force of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. 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, making it shorter than the Cherry MX Red linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Cherry MX Red could provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a unique marbly and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and resonant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, offering a deeper and more satisfying tone when pressed. Both switches provide distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Baby Kangaroo having a sharper and brighter sound while the MX Red delivers a richer and bassier tone.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is described as snappy and bouncy, offering a responsive and lively typing experience. The keys feel polished, providing a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is noted for its textured feel, which may offer some users a preferred amount of friction during typing. While both switches offer different tactile sensations, the Baby Kangaroo provides a more dynamic and spring-like feedback compared to the smoother but textured feel of the MX Red.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo switch presents a marbly, high-pitched sound with a snappy and bouncy feel, while the MX Red switch delivers a thocky, low-pitched sound with a textured typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches provide unique options that can enhance the typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards. By selecting either of these switches, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of overall typing performance and enjoyment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light tactility with a marbley sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile with a classic thocky sound, then the MX Red may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience.
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