Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Bsun Ragdoll present two compelling but distinct options. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is celebrated for its crisp tactile feedback and a unique marbley sound profile, delivering a satisfying, tactile experience that many typists and gamers appreciate. Its characteristically clacky and high-pitched auditory feedback, paired with a bouncy action, makes it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy a lively typing environment. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll, with its Y3 stem and nylon-fiberglass housing, focuses on providing smooth actuation that glides effortlessly with each keystroke, catering to users who prefer a quiet, linear experience devoid of tactile bumps. This switch is particularly well-suited for fast-paced gaming or for those who appreciate a serene, uninterrupted typing session. Both switches have their unique strengths that can enhance your typing experience; 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Bsun Ragdoll, several notable differences emerge that significantly influence their sound profiles and user experience. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and ability to create a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This characteristic allows for a crisper auditory experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced keystroke. Furthermore, the translucence of polycarbonate enhances the visibility of RGB lighting, which can be an important feature for enthusiasts who value aesthetics alongside functionality.
In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll features a nylon top housing, a material traditionally known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience. This distinction can significantly affect typing feedback; users may find that while the Ragdoll’s keystrokes feel more cushioned due to the material's sound-dampening qualities, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a more dynamic and defined keystroke feel that highlights each individual actuation.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which means that some auditory and tactile similarities will present themselves in that area. The nylon construction in both cases tends to produce a deeper sound profile and a more rounded feel when bottoming out. Consequently, while the top housings contribute distinctive characteristics to the overall sound profile and feel of each switch, the nylon base ensures that both switches deliver a consistent and fundamental sound experience when the keys are fully pressed. Thus, users will enjoy some level of familiarity and depth in tactile feedback regardless of the differences in the top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch with the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) boasts an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Ragdoll linear switch features a significantly lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This difference means that those who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions will find the Ragdoll more suitable, while users who appreciate a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the heavier Baby Kangaroo (V2). Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on personal preference for typing experience and comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, we find that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Ragdoll measures 3.8 mm. This makes the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) the shorter option, providing a quicker actuation that can be appealing for gamers seeking faster response times. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll's longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke, offering a fuller feel during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference; if you value speed and responsiveness, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is the ideal option, whereas if you prefer a more tactile depth, the Ragdoll caters to that desire.
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 Bsun Ragdoll has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ragdoll for $3.29.
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) produces a distinctly clacky auditory profile, characterized by its crisp and high-pitched notes, offering a sharp and percussive experience. This switch is resonant, delivering a clean and immersive sound that can make typing feel engaging and lively. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch lacks specific descriptions regarding its sound profile, though it features a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, which suggests a potential for a clacky sound as well. However, without definitive descriptors provided for the Ragdoll, it's more challenging to make a direct comparison based solely on sound qualities.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out for its snappy and bouncy characteristics, providing a lively and responsive typing experience. Its polished finish enhances this sensation, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction, making it pleasant for both typing and gaming. Unfortunately, the feel of the Ragdoll switch is not detailed, leaving a gap in understanding how it may compare. Without the tactile feedback or performance insights typically associated with switches, the Ragdoll's feel remains unassessed.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) presents a clear advantage when it comes to both sound and feel, showcasing crisp, high-pitched auditory qualities along with a responsive and smooth typing experience. Meanwhile, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, while potentially capable of a clacky sound, lacks specific information regarding its acoustics and tactile feedback. For those who value auditory engagement and a spritely feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is likely the preferable choice, while the Ragdoll may require further exploration to fully understand its characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you seek a more tactile experience with a medium-heavy feel, and you enjoy a crisp, snappy response combined with a lively auditory feedback, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is an excellent choice. Its upper-tier bottom-out force of 67 grams provides a satisfying tactile bump, making it particularly well-suited for typists who enjoy a more deliberate keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter feel while typing, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch would be the way to go. With its more forgiving bottom-out force of 52 grams, it allows for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue and delivers a buttery smooth performance ideal for fast typists or gamers who prioritize rapid key presses. Ultimately, consider what you value more: a pronounced tactile response or smooth linear travel, as both switches cater to different experiences that can enhance your overall typing or gaming setup.
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