Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Silent Ocean. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is a tactile switch that offers a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a unique marbley sound profile. Known for being 'clacky', 'marbly', 'high-pitched', 'resonant', 'snappy', 'bouncy', and 'polished', this switch is perfect for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean from Outemu is a linear switch that provides a smooth and silent typing experience. While it may not have specific characteristics in terms of sound and feel, it is favored for its quiet operation. Both switches have their own advantages and drawbacks, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Silent Ocean both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing option for those looking to enhance their keyboard setup.
In terms of their bottom housings, both switches feature nylon material which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This creates a more satisfying typing experience for users, as the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Silent Ocean may differ in material, the qualities each housing material brings to the switch are evenly distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Both switches offer a unique combination of materials that work together to create a satisfying typing experience for users looking for a blend of sound quality and aesthetics in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, which requires 45 grams to actuate. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) requires 67 grams, while the Silent Ocean needs 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Silent Ocean for its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, users looking for a more pronounced push feel may prefer the Baby Kangaroo (V2) for its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and desired weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Baby Kangaroo has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Ocean. The difference may not be significant, but for those who prefer a quicker and more responsive key press, the Baby Kangaroo would be the better choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a bit more depth and tactile feedback in their keystrokes may prefer the Outemu Silent Ocean with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but the decision between the two may 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 Silent Ocean 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 means that when typing on a keyboard with these switches, you can expect sharp, crisp, and percussive sounds that provide an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, so we can assume that it may have a quieter and more muted sound profile compared to the Baby Kangaroo switches.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is characterized as snappy, bouncy, and polished. This means that the switches are super responsive, provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, and have a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch does not have any specific feel descriptors provided, so we can assume that it may offer a smooth and consistent typing experience without tactile feedback.
Considering all available information, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch offers a unique combination of tactile feedback and distinct sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch may provide a quieter typing experience without sacrificing smooth key travel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer their own advantages, and you can expect similar results in terms of overall quality based on the information provided. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch or the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a crisp, light tactility and a unique sound profile that can be described as clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a bottom out force that is slightly lighter, and you prioritize a silent typing experience, then the Outemu Silent Ocean may be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing feel and sound characteristics that align with your preferences and typing style.
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