Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Cherry MX Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, you have two distinct options to consider. The Baby Kangaroo switch offers a tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile characterized by a crisp and light tactility, along with a marbley sound. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red switch provides a linear feel similar to the MX Red switch but with the added benefit of operating quietly, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches have their own set of qualities that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which produces a clear and resonant sound ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches utilize nylon material. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. This means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. However, the top housing of the switches still plays a crucial role in the sound produced when releasing a key, showcasing the importance of both housing materials.
Overall, while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Cherry MX Silent Red switches may differ in their top housing materials (polycarbonate vs. nylon), their shared bottom housing material of nylon results in a similar sound profile when typing. The choice between the switches will ultimately come down to personal preference for the specific sound qualities each housing material brings. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance your typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to the bottom out force, the Baby Kangaroo requires 67 grams to bottom out, while the Cherry MX Silent Red's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Cherry MX Silent Red would be considered lighter than the Baby Kangaroo, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extensive gaming. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preferences, with the lighter force of the Cherry MX Silent Red appealing to some users and the heavier force of the Baby Kangaroo catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Cherry MX Silent Red switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch. The shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the longer travel distance of the Cherry MX Silent Red switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 profile, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch offers a clacky and marbly experience, with a high-pitched and resonant sound that provides a crisp, bright, and percussive typing sound. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch provides a muted and thocky sound, with a low-pitched, deep, and satisfying tone that significantly reduces the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) will provide a louder and more resonant typing experience compared to the silent and subdued sound of the MX Silent Red.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its snappy and bouncy feedback, providing a responsive and lively typing sensation with a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is described as having a textured feel, with noticeable friction when pressed which may be preferred by some users for a more tactile typing experience. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch offers a more dynamic and spring-like feel, while the MX Silent Red provides a different type of feedback with its textured sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities for typing enthusiasts to consider. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch provides a louder and more tactile typing experience with its clacky and bouncy characteristics, while the MX Silent Red switch offers a quieter and smoother typing experience with its muted and textured feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a tactile switch with a crisp, light tactility and a unique marbley sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no bottom out force and a significantly quieter sound profile, ideal for noise-sensitive environments, then the Cherry MX Silent Red may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences in typing experience and sound profile.
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