Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular choices in the tactile switch category are the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the KTT Phalaenopsis. The Baby Kangaroo is known for its crisp, light switch-like tactility and a unique marbley sound profile. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis offers a beautiful translucent design with a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue. The 50g tactile force in the Phalaenopsis ensures a satisfying and discernible tactile bump with every keystroke. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them appealing options. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the KTT Phalaenopsis both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The similarities in their top housing materials ensure that both switches will deliver similar sound characteristics and visual aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a notable difference between the two switches. The Baby Kangaroo features a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, which ensures a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile.
When using these switches, the impact on sound and feel will vary depending on which part of the switch is being engaged. The bottom housing's qualities will be felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing's characteristics will come into play when releasing a key, affecting the sound produced at that moment. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both switches will offer satisfying sound experiences due to their well-engineered design.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the KTT Phalaenopsis share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing materials, they differ in their bottom housing. The Baby Kangaroo utilizes nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phalaenopsis uses polycarbonate, producing a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches are engineered to deliver an enjoyable typing experience, combining the unique qualities of their housing materials to create distinct sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are distinct differences between the two. The Baby Kangaroo has a medium-heavy actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis has a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Phalaenopsis would be the ideal choice as its actuation force and bottom out force are lower. This lighter weight allows for extended typing periods, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Baby Kangaroo provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience, appealing to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel.
Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing style. If a lighter touch is desired, the Phalaenopsis would be the optimal choice. However, for those seeking a more robust and tactile typing experience, the Baby Kangaroo would be a suitable option. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer distinct and satisfying tactile feedback, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for the user.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of short travel distances, with the Baby Kangaroo being slightly shorter. Shorter travel distances are preferred by gamers for faster response times, making the Baby Kangaroo a great option for those seeking quick responsiveness. However, for those who prefer a deeper key press, the Phalaenopsis with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying feel. Overall, both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4 mm, providing options for different preferences and needs.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 switch offers a unique combination of qualities. It is described as clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant. This means that when using these switches, you can expect a sharp and snappy sound, similar to the sound of two billiard balls colliding. Additionally, the switches have a clean and crisp sound profile that is higher-pitched and immersive. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is characterized as bassy and thocky. This means that the sound produced by these switches will have a deeper and richer profile with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switch offers a snappy, bouncy, and polished typing experience. The switches are designed to be super responsive, providing a lively and alive feeling due to longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, the keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, resulting in a bouncy feel and providing rebound when pressed. The switches also have a smooth and refined finish, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped. This means that the switch has a two-stage feeling, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Based on the available information, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switch offers a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a marbley sound profile. It provides a snappy and bouncy typing experience with a polished finish. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch offers a light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. It provides a satisfying tactile bump and a deeper, richer sound profile. While the two switches have different qualities, they both offer unique and delightful experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you can choose either switch to achieve similar results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a marbley sound profile, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switch is a great choice for you. The Baby Kangaroo switch offers a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, ensuring each keystroke is a delightful experience. It has a clacky and marbly sound profile, producing a sharp, bright, and resonant sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and effortless typing with minimized finger fatigue, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is the ideal option. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Phalaenopsis switch provides a delightful typing experience. It has a bassy and thocky sound profile, offering a deep and rich sound during key presses.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switches will depend on your preference for key force, tactility, sound, and feel. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired tactile feedback when making your decision. Whichever switch you choose, both the Baby Kangaroo and Phalaenopsis switches will provide a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience.
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