Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often navigate the diverse landscape of tactile and linear options, each providing a unique typing experience. The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out as a tactile switch, celebrated for its crisp and light tactile feedback combined with a marbley sound profile that many typists find both engaging and satisfying. This switch is characterized by its clacky, high-pitched resonance, making it an enticing choice for those who enjoy a more responsive feel while typing. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch is designed for those who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke, showcasing a meticulously lubricated mechanism that glides effortlessly under the fingers. With its silky texture and satisfying poppy sound, the Poro appeals to users seeking a quieter and more fluid typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages: the Baby Kangaroo for its tactile responsiveness and the HMX Poro for its seamless action. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Poro switches, notable contrasts emerge, particularly in their top housing compositions. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer nature, producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material's translucency enhances the aesthetic appeal of RGB lighting, as it allows illumination to shine through clearly. In contrast, the HMX Poro utilizes a nylon top housing, which is softer and contributes to a deeper, more muted sound profile. The differences in material hardness influence the acoustic signature of each switch, with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) likely generating a more piercing sound upon key release compared to the HMX Poro's rounder tones.
The bottom housing compositions of both switches, however, share a similarity, as both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Poro utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This commonality results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches when pressed down, as nylon is adept at absorbing sound and providing a muffled effect. The retention of nylon in this part of the housing allows users to experience a consistent bottom-out sound, regardless of the differences in their top housings. Thus, while the top housing dramatically shapes the release sound, the nylon bottom housing ensures a uniformity in the tactile feedback and sound produced during key presses.
Ultimately, the interplay of these materials yields a distinct experience for each switch. The Baby Kangaroo (V2), with its polycarbonate top housing, delivers an elevated sound experience characterized by clarity and brightness, while the nylon bottom housing softens the overall impact. Meanwhile, the HMX Poro marries a dulcet tone from its nylon top housing with the familiar deeper sound from its nylon bottom. While these materials contribute differently to each switch’s auditory profile, the shared use of nylon in the bottom makes the overall sound feel more consistent across both options. Thus, users can expect a full, rounded typing experience from either switch, despite their differing top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a medium-heavy actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a stronger, more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Poro switch is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This lighter weight can be advantageous for those who type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions, as it requires less effort to press the keys. In summary, while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) appeals to users who like a firmer push, the HMX Poro offers a lighter touch for a more effortless typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Poro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference means that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a shorter travel distance compared to the HMX Poro, which could appeal to gamers or users seeking faster response times. Conversely, the Poro's longer travel distance may be more appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing, as it provides a deeper engagement with the switch. If you are looking for a more responsive experience, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be the better choice; however, for those who enjoy a more pronounced depth, the HMX Poro might be preferable.
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 Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) switches produce a clacky and high-pitched auditory profile, characterized by a crisp and resonant tone that offers a sharp and snappy experience with each keystroke. This sound can be quite engaging, creating an immersive typing environment that many users find appealing. On the other hand, the HMX Poro linear switches also exhibit a clacky sound, maintaining that same bright and percussive quality. This means that both switches could produce a similarly lively auditory experience, although the nuances in sound may vary depending on the keyboard and keycap selections used in conjunction with them.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switches are described as snappy and bouncy, offering a responsive, lively typing experience with a polished finish that reduces friction and enhances smoothness. This combination creates a dynamic sensation, making each keypress feel more engaging. The HMX Poro switches, while also bouncy, are celebrated for their creamy feel, resulting in a silky and buttery typing experience that glides effortlessly under your fingers. They are also feathery, requiring minimal effort to actuate, which is excellent for reducing finger fatigue over long typing sessions. While both switches provide a lively feedback, the Poro switches prioritize a smoother keystroke, contrasting with the sharper response of the Baby Kangaroo.
Overall, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Poro linear switches offer unique yet appealing characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo impresses with its crisp, resonant sound and snappy tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced experience. In contrast, the HMX Poro excels with its silky smoothness and light actuation, focusing on comfort and effortless keystrokes. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you prioritize a tactile experience with some auditory feedback or a smoother, less physically demanding typing sensation.
Conclusion
In summary, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the nature of your use cases. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch that offers a snappy and responsive experience, with a lively tactility and a crisp, resonant sound, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be an excellent choice. This switch is particularly suited for those who enjoy typists who value a definitive tactile feedback and enjoy the act of typing itself, potentially lending itself to a more immersive experience for writing or programming. Conversely, if you’re looking for something lighter, with a smoother keystroke that minimizes finger fatigue for extensive typing sessions or gaming marathons, the HMX Poro linear switch would be more appropriate. The silky and buttery feel of the Poro, combined with its satisfyingly poppy sound profile, makes it an ideal option for rapid keystrokes and a more relaxed typing experience. Ultimately, assess your preferences on actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feedback to find the switch that best aligns with your personal style and intended use.
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