Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Brown mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are tactile switches, the key difference lies in the sensory experience they offer. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is celebrated for its crisp, light tactile feel, accompanied by a unique marbley sound profile that adds a touch of novelty to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown is known for offering a more traditional typing experience without any standout characteristics. If you value a switch with a distinctive tactile response and an engaging sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo may be the way to go. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Brown switches, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those looking to enhance the auditory experience of typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for users interested in incorporating RGB lighting into their setup. Therefore, in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal, users can expect similar results from both switches due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) employs nylon while the Outemu Brown utilizes polycarbonate. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, polycarbonate is stiffer, creating a clearer and more resonant sound. This difference in bottom housing material will affect the overall typing experience, with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) likely providing a more muffled and rounder sound compared to the Outemu Brown.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Brown switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing material - nylon for the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and polycarbonate for the Outemu Brown - will impact the overall sound and tactile feedback during typing. Users looking for a sharper sound profile may prefer the Outemu Brown, while those seeking a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2).
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch both fall under the medium-heavy category when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Brown's 53 grams, but both require a bottom out force of 67 grams and 65 grams respectively. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may feel slightly heavier when initially pressing the key, the difference in weight between the two switches is not significant enough to drastically alter typing or gaming experiences. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier switch will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches provide a similar level of tactile feedback, making them suitable options for those looking for a medium-heavy typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Baby Kangaroo has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm while the Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Baby Kangaroo's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Brown's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer different tactile feedback and actuation force, so ultimately the choice between them will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming.
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 Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its clacky and marbly sound profile, with a high-pitched and resonant quality that provides a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided. While both switches may produce a similar tactile typing experience, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch is likely to offer a more distinctive and resonant sound profile compared to the Brown switch.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its snappy and bouncy tactile response, offering a responsive and lively typing experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch provides smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing feel. Conversely, the Outemu Brown tactile switch does not have any specific feel descriptors provided. This suggests that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch may offer a more dynamic and refined tactile sensation compared to the Brown switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch shines in both sound and feel aspects, offering a unique and satisfying typing experience with its clacky, marbly sound profile and snappy, bouncy tactile response. While the Outemu Brown tactile switch may provide a similar tactile experience, the lack of specific descriptors for sound and feel suggests that it may not have the same level of distinctiveness as the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel characteristics in mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch or the Outemu Brown tactile switch, you'll want to take into account your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams and enjoy a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a marbley sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 65 grams and are indifferent towards sound profile, then the Outemu Brown tactile switch could be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
