Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is praised for its crisp, light tactile feedback that provides a unique typing experience with a distinct marbley sound profile. It is described as 'clacky', 'marbly', 'high-pitched', 'resonant', 'snappy', 'bouncy', and 'polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Black is a linear switch that offers a smooth and consistent typing experience without any tactile bump or audible feedback. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a satisfying tactile response, the Outemu Black offers a quieter and more linear 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
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Black switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Despite both switches using polycarbonate for their top housings, the differences may lie in the design and construction of the housings themselves, potentially leading to slight variations in sound and feel.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Black switches are made of nylon. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housings, the specific design and construction of the housings may contribute to slightly different typing experiences and sound profiles between the two.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Black switches creates a unique typing experience. While both switches benefit from the properties of the housing materials, such as the sharp and clear sound profile of polycarbonate and the deep and full sound profile of nylon, the specific design and construction of each switch may result in subtle differences in sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for typing experience and aesthetics.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Outemu Black linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams. The Baby Kangaroo switch is more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch provides a stronger push feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Both switches have their advantages depending on individual preferences, with the actuation and bottom out forces playing a crucial role in the overall typing feel. Ultimately, those looking for a lighter switch should opt for the Baby Kangaroo (V2), while those seeking a heavier typing experience will find the Outemu Black more to their liking.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Black has a longer travel distance compared to the Baby Kangaroo. The shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Outemu Black may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on individual preference for travel distance.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 offers a unique combination of qualities. Users have reported a clacky sound profile that is crisp, bright, and percussive, along with a marbly resonance that is high-pitched and clean. This creates an immersive auditory experience that can be likened to tapping on marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it's difficult to compare the two in this aspect. However, both switches' sound profiles can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch is described as snappy and bouncy, providing a responsive and lively typing experience. The switches are also said to be polished, resulting in smooth key travel with reduced friction. This polished finish contributes to a sleek typing experience that enhances overall comfort and performance. As for the Outemu Black linear switch, information about its feel is unavailable, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) in this aspect.
Taking into account the available information, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch stands out for its unique sound profile that combines clacky and marbly qualities, along with its snappy, bouncy, and polished feel characteristics. While the qualities of the Outemu Black linear switch remain unknown, users can expect a distinct auditory experience and responsive typing feel from the Baby Kangaroo (V2). Overall, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light tactile feel with a unique marbley sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a linear switch without any tactile feedback, the Outemu Black may be the better choice. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to determine which one aligns more with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
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