Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, both tactile switches. The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) is recognized for its crisp and light tactility, accompanied by a unique marbly sound profile. Known for its clacky, marbly, high-pitched, resonant, snappy, bouncy, and polished qualities, this switch provides a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a tactile response. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown offers a tactile typing experience without specific attributes, providing a more neutral feel. While the Baby Kangaroo switch boasts distinct characteristics, the Dustproof Brown switch may appeal to individuals seeking a more understated tactile feedback. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Dustproof Brown have some clear similarities, as they both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to polycarbonate's stiffness and clear translucency. This makes both switches ideal for use with RGB lighting, as the clear housing allows for vibrant color displays. However, where they differ is in their nylon bottom housings. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) uses nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Dustproof Brown also utilizes nylon but for a duller and rounder sound due to its softer nature.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Dustproof Brown offer distinct tactile experiences due to their different bottom housing materials. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) with its nylon bottom housing will provide a deeper sound and feel when typing, offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, but with a softer sound profile that absorbs more sound, resulting in a different typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for the type of sound and tactile feedback desired.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Dustproof Brown share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, their differing nylon bottom housings contribute to distinct typing experiences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound, while the Dustproof Brown offers a softer, more absorbing sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a duller, rounder sound will influence your decision when choosing between these two switches. Regardless of the choice, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a heavier actuation force at 59 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch at 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, both switches are similar with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) at 67 grams and the Dustproof Brown at 65 grams, making them both medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Dustproof Brown would be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be more suitable for users looking for a stronger push feel while typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Baby Kangaroo has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Brown. Shorter travel distances are preferred by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances may feel more substantial to some users. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding between the two. However, if you are looking for a shorter travel distance, the Baby Kangaroo would be the better option, while the Dustproof Brown would be suitable for those who prefer a longer 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 Dustproof 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 offers a unique combination of clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant characteristics. This results in a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile that is reminiscent of tapping on a piece of marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is not available. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is described as snappy, bouncy, and polished, providing a responsive typing experience with a lively feel and smooth key travel. These qualities make typing on this switch feel alive and refined. Unfortunately, specific information on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is not provided.
In conclusion, while the subjective qualities of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch are clearly described with features such as a marbly sound profile and a bouncy, polished feel, information on the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is lacking. Therefore, for a newcomer looking for a similar experience to the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2), it is recommended to consider switches with known qualities that align with their preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, exploring different switch options and considering personal preferences will help in finding the perfect mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, you should choose the Baby Kangaroo (V2) if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, a crisp and light switch-like tactility, and a sound profile that is described as clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant. On the other hand, you should opt for the Outemu Dustproof Brown if you prefer a slightly lower bottom out force of 65 grams and do not mind the lack of specific sound and feel descriptors. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for actuation force, tactile feedback, and sound profile.
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