Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch but can't decide which one to choose? Look no further, as we'll be comparing and contrasting two popular options for you: the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, both tactile switches. The Baby Kangaroo switch is best known for its crisp and light tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience with its distinct marbley sound profile. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is renowned for its sharp tactile bump, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing feel. While the Baby Kangaroo offers a higher-pitched and snappy sensation, the Blueberry switch delivers a slightly deeper sound frequency without being overly "thocky." However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry have different housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Baby Kangaroo features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that resonates clearly. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry has a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. This unique sound profile is distinct from the Baby Kangaroo's. However, both switches' top housings allow for the use of RGB lighting due to their translucency.
The housing materials for the bottom half of the switches also differ. The Baby Kangaroo utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the NovelKeys Blueberry has a POM bottom housing, contributing to its pleasing and unique sound that is also on the deeper side and relatively more muted. With their different bottom housings, both switches offer a distinct typing experience and sound when the keys are pressed down.
While the top and bottom housings of the switches vary, it is important to note how they impact the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the keys are pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, users can expect a combination of the unique sound profiles from both the top and bottom housings when using either the Gateron Baby Kangaroo or the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. Despite their differences, these switches provide satisfying sound experiences that enthusiasts can appreciate.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Baby Kangaroo is slightly lighter at 59 grams compared to the 55 grams of the Blueberry. However, the bottom out force of the Baby Kangaroo is 67 grams, while the Blueberry is heavier at 80 grams.
The lighter actuation force of the Baby Kangaroo may make it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. This makes it a great option for those who use their keyboard extensively for work or gaming. On the other hand, the Blueberry offers a stronger push feel with its heavier actuation and bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. This can be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile and satisfying keystroke.
Both switches offer their own unique benefits depending on personal preference. If one prefers a lighter touch, the Baby Kangaroo would be a fitting choice. Similarly, for those who enjoy a heavier touch, the Blueberry would provide a satisfying typing experience. Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry is heavier, thus catering to different preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, which is 4 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the NovelKeys Blueberry is more in line with the traditional travel distance, while the 3.4mm travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo is relatively shallow. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Baby Kangaroo would be the better choice. However, for those who prefer a deeper key press, the longer travel distance of 4 mm in the NovelKeys Blueberry may be more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on individual preference and whether a shorter or longer travel distance is preferred.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 tactile switch is known for its crisp and light switch-like tactility. When typing on these switches, users experience a marbley sound profile. The sound can be described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo switch is resonant, resulting in a clean and sharp sound profile. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a very sharp tactile bump, providing a sharp typing feel. The sound of the Blueberry switch has a lower-than-average frequency, giving it a slightly deeper tone compared to average switches. It is described as low-pitched and resonant, resulting in a clean and sharp sound profile. Overall, both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Baby Kangaroo being clacky, marbly, and high-pitched, while the Blueberry is low-pitched and resonant. In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo is snappy, bouncy, and polished, providing a responsive and smooth typing experience. The Blueberry switch is also snappy, but has a buttery keystroke experience, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The Blueberry switch is also described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed. It is invigorating and offers pronounced feedback, creating an immersive typing sensation. Overall, both switches have their unique feel qualities, with the Baby Kangaroo offering a snappy, bouncy, and polished experience, and the Blueberry providing a snappy, buttery, and textured feel. Based on the available information, users can expect different subjective qualities when using these switches, providing a diverse typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a crisp, light tactile feel and a marbley sound profile, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a snappy and bouncy typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In terms of sound, they have a clacky and high-pitched profile, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy switch with a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch would be a better fit. These switches offer a snappy and buttery typing experience, with a textured feel that some users prefer. In terms of sound, they have a low-pitched and resonant profile, creating a mellow and immersive auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches would depend on your personal preferences for weight, tactile feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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