Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are super excited to introduce you to two mechanical keyboard switches - the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Outemu Red Panda. These switches offer unique tactile feedback and sound profiles, making them standout choices for keyboard enthusiasts. The Baby Kangaroo provides a crisp, light switch-like tactility and a marbley sound profile, characterized by its clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant qualities. On the other hand, the Red Panda boasts a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Known for its thocky and mild attributes, it offers a different typing experience compared to the Baby Kangaroo. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Outemu Red Panda both have polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic advantages from both switches when it comes to the top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Baby Kangaroo and the Red Panda use nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that utilize nylon bottom housing. Both switches offer this characteristic, providing a similar auditory experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel.
It's important to note that the split between the top and bottom housing materials in a switch impacts the overall sound and feel. When pressing down a key, the qualities of the bottom housing become more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback. Conversely, when releasing a key, the impact on the sound is primarily influenced by the top housing. While both switches share similar housing materials in their respective categories, the different combinations of top and bottom housing materials may result in subtle variations in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is clear that there are notable differences between the two. The Baby Kangaroo has a slightly higher actuation force of 59 grams, compared to the Red Panda's 50 grams, making it slightly heavier. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Baby Kangaroo is also slightly higher at 67 grams, whereas the Red Panda requires 60 grams to bottom out. Despite these differences, both switches can still provide a satisfying typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Red Panda more suitable, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo offers a slightly heavier push feel, appealing to individuals who enjoy a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we can see that there is a slight difference. The Baby Kangaroo has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Red Panda has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become popular in recent times, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. Opting for a shorter travel distance, such as the Red Panda, can provide a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, some individuals may find that shorter travel distances feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a more substantial feel, the Baby Kangaroo's slightly longer travel distance may provide a sense of depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for either a shorter and faster response or a longer and more substantial typing experience.
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 Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 and light switch-like tactility, which results in a marbley sound profile. When pressed, the Baby Kangaroo switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving it a sharp and percussive quality. It is also described as resonant, with a clean and sharp sound profile. In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo switch is snappy and bouncy, providing a super responsive and lively typing experience. The keys have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a light-medium amount of tactility. When typing on these switches, users can expect a bassier and raindrop-like bottom-out sound, as well as a clackier and higher-pitched top-out sound. The Red Panda switch is described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. However, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Red Panda switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and Outemu Red Panda tactile switches have distinct sound profiles. While the Baby Kangaroo switch is clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant, the Red Panda switch is thocky. The feel of the Baby Kangaroo switch is characterized by being snappy, bouncy, and polished, providing a responsive and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the Red Panda switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience without any specific qualities mentioned. Based on the information provided, it is clear that these two switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo would be a great choice for you. It offers a medium-heavy feel with a crisp and light switch-like tactility. The sound profile of the Baby Kangaroo is described as clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant, providing a sharp and percussive auditory experience. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo switch is known for its snappy, bouncy, and polished feel, resulting in a responsive and smooth typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly lighter bottom-out force, the Outemu Red Panda would suit you well. It offers a medium bottom-out force and provides a light-medium amount of tactility. The Red Panda switch is recognized for its bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound, which creates a unique auditory experience with a thocky characteristic.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Outemu Red Panda will depend on your preference for switch weight, sound profile, and typing feel. Whether you prioritize a crisp and light tactility with a heavier bottom-out force or a gentler typing experience with a lighter bottom-out force and thocky sound, both switches offer their distinct qualities. It is recommended that you consider your personal preferences and requirements when making a decision. Happy typing!
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