Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Red mechanical keyboard switches, one immediate contrast is their tactile versus linear nature. The Baby Kangaroo offers a crisp, light tactility with a distinctive marbley sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Red is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. If you value a clacky, bouncy, and snappy typing experience, the Baby Kangaroo may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet and linear keystroke, the Outemu Red could be the ideal choice. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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 Red, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this material in their top housing, the feel and sound when pressing down on the keys may vary due to other factors such as stem material and spring weight.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Red differs from the top housing material. Nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone. This distinction in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch. Therefore, users may notice a difference in sound and feel when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings compared to those with polycarbonate bottoms.
Overall, while the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Red have similarities in their top housing material of polycarbonate, the differences in their bottom housing material of nylon can result in variations in sound and feel during typing. It is important to consider these factors when selecting a switch for a specific typing experience, as the housing materials play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, whether opting for the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) or the Outemu Red, users can expect a unique typing experience based on the combination of top and bottom housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is evident that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) requires a heavier touch compared to the Red switch. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, whereas the Outemu Red has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Outemu Red lighter in terms of actuation force and slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force. This means that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) will provide a more substantial typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Outemu Red will offer a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches, however, fall within the medium-heavy and medium range, ensuring that users will still get similar results with either option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will 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, making it shorter than the Outemu Red linear 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, while the longer travel distance of the Outemu Red may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages in terms of travel distance, so selecting the one that best suits your needs is key to achieving optimal typing comfort and efficiency.
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 Red 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 stands out for its unique qualities. Users have reported a clacky and marbly sound profile that adds a crisp and bright element to typing. The high-pitched and resonant nature of the switch further enhances the auditory experience, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a distinct sound while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch offers a tactile experience that is described as snappy, bouncy, and polished. The snappiness of the switch makes it super responsive, providing a lively typing experience. The bouncy nature adds a spring-like feedback sensation, giving users a satisfying rebound when pressed. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. Conversely, there are no specific feel descriptors available for the Outemu Red linear switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch is known for its unique clacky and marbly sound profile, as well as its snappy, bouncy, and polished feel. On the other hand, information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Red linear switch is not available. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with specific sound and feel characteristics, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch would be the recommended choice based on the provided information.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) with 67 grams may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a switch with a crisp, light tactility and a unique marbly sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and a smooth linear feel without any specific sound characteristics, the Outemu Red switch may be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactility, sound, and typing experience.
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