Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is celebrated for its crisp, light switch-like tactility and unique marbley sound profile, providing a range of sensations that include being clacky, marbly, high-pitched, resonant, snappy, bouncy, and polished. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown doesn't have as much distinctive characteristics attributed to it. Choosing the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be preferred for those looking for a more pronounced typing experience and a visually appealing sound profile. 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
55g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housing materials allows for a more resonant sound, especially beneficial for those looking to enhance their RGB lighting experience. However, while both switches share this aspect, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Crystal Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities as the Baby Kangaroo (V2).
Furthermore, the nylon bottom housing of both switches plays a significant role in impacting the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches. The differences in the bottom housing materials contribute to the unique sound profiles of each switch, influencing the perception of the typing experience. While the top housing has more of an effect on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. This shows how the choice of housing materials can affect different aspects of the typing experience, allowing users to customize their keyboards to suit their preferences.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their housing materials. While they share the advantages of using polycarbonate in the top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, the differences in their nylon bottom housings contribute to variations in the typing experience. Whether you prefer a more resonant and clear sound (Baby Kangaroo V2) or a deeper and fuller sound (Crystal Brown), these switches provide users with options to customize their keyboards based on their sound preferences. Ultimately, understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles can help users make informed decisions when choosing between different switches.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, which only requires 45 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) also requires more force at 67 grams compared to the Crystal Brown's 55 grams. This means that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Crystal Brown offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler keystroke. Both switches fall within the medium weight category, but the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is on the heavier side, while the Crystal Brown is on the lighter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. In contrast, the longer travel distance of the Crystal Brown may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more pronounced key press. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distance, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences. Overall, the travel distance of a switch plays a significant role in the typing experience and can greatly impact the overall feel of a keyboard.
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 Crystal 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a marbley resonance, providing a crisp and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound profile is not available, so it is difficult to directly compare. However, both switches may offer a different sound experience depending on the keyboard they are mounted on and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is described as snappy, bouncy, and polished, offering a responsive typing experience with a lively feedback sensation and smooth key travel. The feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is unknown, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience. It is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in determining which switch would feel more comfortable for each user.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch is praised for its clacky sound and snappy feel, the information on the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is limited, making it hard to compare them directly. Ultimately, the best way to determine which switch is suitable for you would be to try them out firsthand and see which one aligns with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider the bottom-out force, sound, and feel preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and enjoy a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a marbley sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and are looking for a switch with no distinct sound or feel characteristics mentioned, the Crystal Brown may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your personal preferences and typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for you.
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