Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often face the dilemma of choosing between the tactile feedback of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the smooth, linear experience of the HMX Perky. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is celebrated for its crisp, light tactile response and distinctive marbled sound profile, making it a great option for those who enjoy auditory and physical feedback while typing. This switch is characterized by qualities like being clacky, snappy, and polished, catering to users who appreciate a bouncy touch and resonant acoustics. On the other hand, the HMX Perky stands out with its softer and glittery nylon housing, delivering a neutral and condensed typing experience thanks to its shorter travel distance. This makes it ideal for typists seeking fluidity and speed without the distraction of tactile bumps. Each switch offers its unique attributes tailored to different typing 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
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Perky, there is a significant contrast in the composition of their top housings. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness. This characteristic enhances the switch's sound profile, creating a sharper, higher-pitched auditory experience that many typists find desirable for its clarity and resonance. The polycarbonate's translucency also allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects to shine through, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize aesthetics in their keyboard designs. In contrast, the HMX Perky features a nylon top housing, a material that offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. By absorbing more sound, nylon results in a rounder and less crisp auditory experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a more subdued typing sound. Thus, the differing materials of the top housings distinctly influence the overall sound and feel of each switch.
Conversely, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Perky share a crucial similarity in their bottom housings, with both incorporating nylon. This commonality means that the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches are heavily influenced by the properties of nylon. As a softer plastic, nylon contributes to a richer and fuller auditory output, which can appeal to users seeking a more muted and pleasant keystroke experience. Hence, while the top housings provide contrasting sound profiles, the uniformity in the bottom housings means users can expect a similar depth and resonance when they engage the switches. This shared material greatly contributes to the tactile feedback and overall experience of typing across both switches.
In summary, the difference between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Perky lies predominantly in their top housing materials, which dictate their distinct sound profiles—crisper and sharper for polycarbonate, and deeper and fuller for nylon. However, the use of nylon in the bottom housings links the two switches in terms of sound richness and feedback, ensuring that both options deliver a satisfying typing experience despite their contrasting top characteristics. As a result, users who value diverse auditory profiles may select one over the other, while those appreciating a consistent bottom feel will find common ground between the two models.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) boasts an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch ideal for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Perky offers a lighter touch with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions and gaming due to its ease of activation. As such, if you prioritize a lighter feel for comfort and prolonged use, the Perky switch will be the better choice, while the Baby Kangaroo will cater to those seeking a stronger push for a more tactile response.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch share the same travel distance of 3.4 mm, which means they offer a similar keypress experience. Because of this equal travel distance, users can expect comparable performance and feedback when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. This uniformity provides a consistent tactile response that can be especially advantageous for those who prefer a particular feel while typing or gaming. Thus, there's no shorter or longer switch in this case, as both are designed to travel the same 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 HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
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) offers a dynamic auditory experience characterized by its clacky, marbly, and high-pitched tones. This vibrant sound profile produces a sharp, crisp, and percussive click, akin to the noise of two billiard balls striking each other or tapping on a solid piece of marble. This lively sound can be immersive and engaging, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, specific information regarding the sound characteristics of the HMX Perky linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, because the Perky switch is generally touted for its softer nylon housing, it is likely to produce a more muted or subdued acoustic response, leading to a contrasting sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is defined by its snappy, bouncy, and polished characteristics. This gives the switch a responsive and lively feel, thanks to its design, including aspects like longer springs that enhance the overall tactile feedback. The bouncy sensation contributes to a spring-like rebound when the key is pressed, making the act of typing feel more engaging. In contrast, the specific tactile qualities of the HMX Perky switch are unknown, making it challenging to comment directly on its feel. However, given its designation as a linear switch, it is likely to have a smoother, uninterrupted keypress, focusing on a different typing experience than the tactile and responsive qualities of the Baby Kangaroo.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out with its lively sound profile and engaging tactile feedback, making it well-suited for users who appreciate a snappy and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Perky linear switch appears to offer a different approach, emphasizing a softer and more neutral typing feel without the sharp auditory feedback found in the Baby Kangaroo. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, these switches cater to different types of keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you lean towards the vibrant audibility of the Baby Kangaroo or the more subdued characteristics of the Perky, both switches will offer unique typing experiences that can meet varied user preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch should ultimately reflect your personal typing preferences and the kind of experience you're aiming for in your keyboard. If you enjoy a tactile feedback with a medium-heavy resistance that offers a snappy and bouncy feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is an excellent option. Its distinct clacky and marbly sound profile adds a lively auditory element to your typing, making it a great choice for someone who relishes crisp, responsive key presses and an invigorating typing experience. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch with a more neutral and satisfying feel, the HMX Perky linear switch could be the better fit, especially given its softer nylon housing and shorter travel distance that promote a more streamlined and efficient typing experience. The Perky’s characteristics suit users who value smoothness and quieter operation, making it perfect for long typing sessions or shared workspaces. Ultimately, assess how you want your mechanical keyboard to reflect your typing style—whether that leans towards a more tactile and audibly engaging experience with the Baby Kangaroo (V2), or a softer, smoother, and adequately responsive feel with the HMX Perky.
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