Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) 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 and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Baby Kangaroo switch is lauded for its crisp and light tactility, accompanied by a unique marbley sound profile. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', and 'High-pitched', this switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is known for its maximum tactility, delivering a punchy feel that is satisfyingly clean and clacky. Categorized as 'Resonant', 'Neutral', and 'Sharp', this switch provides an invigorating and snappy typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision in choosing the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), it is clear that they offer different sound profiles. The Baby Kangaroo features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) boasts a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials have their advantages, the difference in sound profile is significant between the two.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Baby Kangaroo utilizes a nylon material, known for eliciting a deep and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the POM T1 (Sunflower) uses a POM bottom housing, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch. This material also creates a pleasing and unique sound, albeit on the deeper side and relatively more muted compared to nylon.
It is worth noting that the impact of the housing materials is split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing the key. Therefore, while there are differences in the housing materials between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), their impact may vary depending on the specific action performed on the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing them in the medium-heavy category. However, the actuation force of the Baby Kangaroo is 59 grams, while the actuation force of the POM T1 (Sunflower) is unavailable. This means that the Baby Kangaroo requires a slightly lighter force to trigger a keystroke compared to the unknown actuation force of the POM T1 (Sunflower).
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Baby Kangaroo may be a better choice as its actuation force is lower. This can be particularly beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it reduces the strain on the fingers and allows for comfortable usage over time. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial and forceful keystroke may prefer the POM T1 (Sunflower), as its actuation force is unknown but bottom out force matches the medium-heavy category. This heavier force can provide a satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of stability during typing.
Ultimately, the decision between these switches would depend on personal preference and typing style. While the actuation force of the POM T1 is unknown, the similar bottom out force of both switches suggests that they may deliver comparable results in terms of overall typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, we can see that the Baby Kangaroo has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the POM T1 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the POM T1 falls within the standard range of 4.0 mm, while the Baby Kangaroo is on the shallower end at 3.4 mm. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, often prefer shorter travel distances, making the Baby Kangaroo an ideal choice for them. However, for those who prefer a more substantial keypress, the longer travel distance of the POM T1 may be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 tactile switch is known for its crisp, light switch-like tactility. When typing on these switches, users experience a sharp and snappy sound, described as clacky and marbly. The clacky sound profile is crisp, bright, and percussive, while the marbly sound is resonant, high-pitched, and clean. The higher-pitched sound produced by the Baby Kangaroo switch contributes to a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is known for its maximum tactility. Typing on these switches provides a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack. The sound profile of the POM T1 switch is also described as resonant, clean, and sharp. Both switches offer a similar resonant sound profile, with the Baby Kangaroo having additional descriptors of clacky and marbly. Overall, both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience with distinct tactile feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switch offers a snappy and bouncy experience. The snappy feature of these switches makes them super responsive, providing a more alive typing experience. Additionally, the bouncy sensation offers a spring-like or elastic feedback, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. The polished finish of the Baby Kangaroo switch further enhances the typing experience by providing a smooth and refined feel. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is known for its sharp and accented tactile feedback. The sharp tactile bump is intense and can be felt distinctly with every keypress. The accented feature refers to a medium tactility that is prominent without being overwhelming or subtle. The POM T1 switch also offers a snappy and invigorating typing experience, with pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience, with the Baby Kangaroo having descriptors of snappy, bouncy, and polished, while the POM T1 offers a sharp and accented sensation.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Baby Kangaroo switch is characterized by its crisp, light tactility and marbly, clacky sound profile. It offers a snappy, bouncy feel with a polished finish. On the other hand, the POM T1 switch is known for its maximum tactility, sharp feedback, and clean clack sound. It provides a snappy, invigorating feel and an accented sensation. Despite these differences, the switches share some similarities, such as a resonant sound profile, snappy responsiveness, and a tactile typing experience. When choosing between these switches, it is important to consider personal preferences for specific sound and feel qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you value a crisp, light switch-like tactility and a marbley sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo is a great choice. Its clacky and marbly sound, along with the snappy and polished feel, will provide an enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, if maximum tactility is what you seek, along with a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack, then the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the switch for you. It offers a resonant sound and an invigorating, sharp feel. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire.
Mentioned in this article
