Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, it's important to consider factors such as tactility, sound profile, and overall feel. The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a unique typing experience with a crisp, light tactility and a distinctive marbley sound profile. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'High-pitched', 'Resonant', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished', this switch is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch is designed for those who prioritize a quiet typing environment, making it perfect for office settings. With a rounded tactile bump and categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Penguin switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and quiet operation. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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 Akko Penguin offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon top housing of the Akko Penguin produces a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile, whereas the softer nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in sound profiles highlights the impact that housing materials have on the overall typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko Penguin utilize nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing helps absorb sound, creating a more muted and rounded bottom-out sound and feel. While the top housing material may have a more noticeable effect on key release sound, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. Despite utilizing the same material for the bottom housing, the unique design and construction of each switch can still lead to subtle differences in sound and feel during typing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko Penguin plays a crucial role in shaping the sound and tactile feedback experienced by the user. The differences between polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings result in distinct sound profiles, with polycarbonate offering a sharper and crisper sound compared to the deeper and fuller sound produced by nylon. By understanding how housing materials impact sound and feel, keyboard enthusiasts can select switches that align with their preferences for typing experience and overall keyboard aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is clear that there is a difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Penguin's lighter 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) requires 67 grams, slightly heavier than the Penguin's 60 grams. This makes the Baby Kangaroo (V2) more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Akko Penguin may be favored by those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches provide a medium force feedback, ensuring a balance between actuation and bottom out forces for a comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Baby Kangaroo for its slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more substantial key press feel. However, those looking for a quicker response time may lean towards the Akko Penguin with its slightly shorter travel distance. In general, both switches offer a similar experience with only a minor difference in 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 Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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) switch is known for its clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant characteristics, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be likened to tapping on marble or two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, designed for quieter typing experiences in office environments. The Penguin switch focuses on minimizing noise, making it a suitable choice for those who prioritize a quiet typing environment. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Baby Kangaroo offering a more resonant and vibrant sound, while the Penguin aims for a softer and more subdued typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch is described as snappy, bouncy, and polished, providing a responsive and lively typing experience with smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch also features a polished feel, along with being mild, feathery, and subtle. The Penguin switch offers a gentle typing experience with light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue and providing comfort for extended typing sessions. Both switches prioritize a smooth and refined typing feel, with the Baby Kangaroo focusing on responsiveness and bounce, while the Penguin aims for a gentle and approachable typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo switch provides a more lively and resonant sound profile, coupled with a snappy and bouncy typing feel for a vibrant typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switch focuses on minimizing noise with a muted sound profile and offers a gentle, feathery typing experience for comfortable extended use. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can cater to different typing environments and user needs, providing a diverse range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and enjoy a crisp, clacky sound with a tactile bump that feels snappy and bouncy, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter keyboard experience with a more muted sound profile and a gentle typing feel that is polished and approachable, then the Akko Penguin switch would suit your needs better, especially for office environments where noise minimization is important. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the specific use case for your mechanical keyboard. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in your typing experience.
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