Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Maple Leaf both offer tactile feedback, but with unique characteristics. The Baby Kangaroo is praised for its crisp, light tactility and distinctive marbley sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a 'Clacky', 'Marbly', and 'Snappy' typing experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf doesn't have as much specific information available but may appeal to those looking for a more subtle tactile feel. Each switch has its own strengths, providing users with different options based on their preferences. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Maple Leaf differ in their housing materials, with the Baby Kangaroo featuring a polycarbonate top housing known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Maple Leaf has a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. While the Baby Kangaroo's nylon bottom housing is also made of nylon, providing a similar deep and full sound profile, the Maple Leaf's bottom housing is also nylon, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
The choice of housing material in mechanical keyboards can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of typing. The translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Baby Kangaroo allows for the utilization of RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing in the Maple Leaf focuses more on producing a deeper sound profile. However, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a similar sound profile of depth and fullness during typing. The distinction lies in the top housing material, with polycarbonate offering a crisper sound compared to nylon's rounder tone.
In terms of practical use, the housing material of a switch can dictate the overall experience of typing. The split between the top and bottom housing of a switch, such as in the Baby Kangaroo and Maple Leaf, impacts the sound and feel when pressing down or releasing a key. While both switches strive for a satisfying typing experience, the choice between a polycarbonate top housing in the Baby Kangaroo for a crisper sound or a nylon top housing in the Maple Leaf for a fuller sound may cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, we see that they both fall into the medium-heavy category. The Baby Kangaroo has a slightly higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Maple Leaf's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Baby Kangaroo requires 67 grams while the Maple Leaf needs 65 grams. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of weight, with the Baby Kangaroo having a slightly heavier feel overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Maple Leaf may be the better option. However, for those who like a bit more resistance and feedback, the Baby Kangaroo would be the choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Baby Kangaroo has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Maple Leaf, making it better suited for those who prefer a bit more depth when typing. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of 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 Maple Leaf 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
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its unique sound profile, described as clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant. This results in a sharp, crisp, and bright sound when typing, similar to tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of sound.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is known for being snappy, bouncy, and polished, providing a responsive and lively typing experience with smooth key travel. However, the specific feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is unknown, so it's challenging to determine how it compares to the Baby Kangaroo (V2) in terms of typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch offers a distinct sound profile of clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant qualities with a snappy, bouncy, and polished typing feel. Without information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it's difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, based on the available information, users can expect a unique auditory and tactile experience with the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch. If both switches share similar characteristics, users can anticipate getting comparable results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider the key differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a clacky and marbly sound profile, along with a snappy and bouncy tactile feel, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy bottom out force with a yet to be defined sound profile and feel, then the Maple Leaf could be the better option. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking. Experimenting with both switches may be the best way to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences the best.
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