Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are super excited to be offering two unique mechanical keyboard switches - the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream. These switches provide distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo is a tactile switch, delivering a crisp and light switch-like tactility. With its marbly sound profile, this switch offers a unique and high-pitched typing sensation. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream is a linear switch that offers a heftier typing experience. It provides a fairly deep sound profile, which adds to the overall typing enjoyment. While the Baby Kangaroo offers a bouncy and polished feel, the NovelKeys Cream delivers a buttery and textured 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
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
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 Cream differ in terms of their top housing materials. The Baby Kangaroo features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, allowing for a more resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The sound profile is deeper and relatively more muted compared to the Baby Kangaroo. Both housings offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Baby Kangaroo providing a sharper sound and the NovelKeys Cream delivering a deeper sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo uses a nylon material, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream incorporates a POM material. Typing on the switch with a nylon bottom housing will produce a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the POM bottom housing in the NovelKeys Cream offers a similar deep sound, but with a relatively more muted quality. While both switches provide a deeper sound, the Nylon housing of the Baby Kangaroo ensures a fuller sound experience, while the POM housing of the NovelKeys Cream creates a slightly more subdued effect.
When it comes to the overall impact on the switch's sound, pressing down on the switch will mainly highlight the qualities of the bottom housing. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound produced when you release a key. This means that the Baby Kangaroo's polycarbonate top housing will have a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key, while the Cream's POM top housing will offer a unique sound experience upon key release. Despite their differences, both switches provide distinct auditory feedback depending on whether the key is being pressed or released.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there are noticeable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Baby Kangaroo requires 59 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the NovelKeys Cream requires slightly less force at 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range, providing a satisfying tactile feel without being too heavy.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Baby Kangaroo requires 67 grams of force for a full press, while the NovelKeys Cream requires a slightly higher force of 70 grams. This suggests that the NovelKeys Cream provides a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Considering weight is a personal preference, as some individuals prefer a lighter switch for longer typing periods or gaming sessions while others enjoy the feel of a heavier switch. For those seeking a lighter option, the NovelKeys Cream might be the preferable choice due to its lower actuation force. However, if a stronger push and more substantial typing experience are desired, the Baby Kangaroo may be a better fit due to its slightly higher bottom out force. Ultimately, both switches offer satisfying tactile feedback and a medium-heavy feel that many enthusiasts appreciate.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is evident that the NovelKeys Cream has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Baby Kangaroo has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Baby Kangaroo's travel distance falls on the shallower side, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream's longer travel distance may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
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 Cream 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 Cream 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch offers a unique combination of qualities. It is described as clacky, which means it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Additionally, it has a marbly sound profile, which is resonant, high-pitched, and clean. This can be likened to tapping on a solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. It is also noted for having a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a different sound experience. It is described as low-pitched, which suggests a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is also noted as resonant, providing a clean and sharp sound. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch is known for being snappy and bouncy. It offers a super responsive typing experience, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, which makes the keys feel more alive. It also provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Furthermore, the Baby Kangaroo switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a buttery feel. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. While there is no specific information about the texture of the Cream switch, it is worth mentioning that some users prefer a textured (or scratchy) feel, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo provides a clacky and marbly sound profile with high-pitched and resonant qualities. It also offers snappy, bouncy, and polished feel, resulting in responsive, lively, and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream provides a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, with a buttery feel that offers a seamless and uniform typing sensation. While the specific texture of the Cream switch is unknown, some users may prefer a textured feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences and desired typing experience. However, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you are looking for a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Baby Kangaroo with 67 grams is a good option, while the NovelKeys Cream with 70 grams provides a slightly heavier typing experience.
If you prioritize a crisp, light switch-like tactility and a marbley sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo is your go-to choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier linear typing experience with a fairly deep sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream is the way to go.
When it comes to sound, the Baby Kangaroo offers a clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, while the NovelKeys Cream provides a low-pitched and resonant sound. Consider your personal preferences in terms of sound when making your decision.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo offers a snappy, bouncy, and polished typing experience, with responsive keys and reduced friction. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream provides a buttery, textured, and invigorating feel, with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Consider the type of feedback and actuation force you prefer when deciding between these two options.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience. Consider these factors and choose the switch that aligns best with your individual preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
