Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are excited to introduce two mechanical keyboard switches for your consideration: the Gateron Baby Kangaroo, a tactile switch, and the SP-Star RedBlue, a linear switch. The Baby Kangaroo switch offers an exceptional tactile experience, providing a crisp and light switch-like tactility that is accompanied by a marvelous sound profile resembling marbles. Labelled as 'clacky', 'marbly', 'high-pitched', 'resonant', 'snappy', 'bouncy', and 'polished', this switch promises a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch stands out with its medium-light typing experience, making it the ideal choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. Its sound profile is relatively higher-pitched, and it is categorized as 'low-pitched', 'neutral', 'mild', 'thocky', and 'polished'. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the SP-Star RedBlue share similar qualities in terms of their housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal. Consequently, users can expect comparable sound and lighting experiences from both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Baby Kangaroo features a nylon material, while the RedBlue maintains a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the stiffer composition of polycarbonate in the RedBlue's bottom housing contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. This difference in material results in varying bottom-out sounds and feels when the switches are pressed.
In summary, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the SP-Star RedBlue offer similar sound profiles with their polycarbonate top housings. The choice between them lies in the material used for the bottom housing, with the Baby Kangaroo's nylon producing a deeper and fuller sound, while the RedBlue's polycarbonate offers a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the decision depends on the user's preference for the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, a clear difference can be seen. The Baby Kangaroo has an actuation force of 59 grams, providing a medium-heavy touch, while its bottom out force is slightly higher at 67 grams. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch has an unknown actuation force, but its bottom out force is lighter at 57 grams, making it medium-light.
Weight plays a significant role in the typing experience for many individuals. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the RedBlue switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without strain or fatigue. This makes it suitable for a keyboard that is used extensively at work or during prolonged gaming sessions. In contrast, the Baby Kangaroo switch provides a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. This offers users a more substantial push feel, resulting in a typing experience with a greater sense of tactile feedback.
Despite the varying forces, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium range. Therefore, individuals who desire a similar typing experience in terms of weight can expect comparable results from either option. Overall, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switch offers a medium-heavy touch, while the SP-Star RedBlue switch provides a medium-light sensation, catering to the preferences of users who favor different weightings.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have different travel distances. The Baby Kangaroo has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the RedBlue has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of comparison, the RedBlue switch has a longer travel distance than the Baby Kangaroo switch.
The 4.0mm travel distance of the RedBlue switch is considered more traditional, while the 3.4mm travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo switch is on the shorter side. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. So, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Baby Kangaroo switch might be a better choice for you. However, it's important to note that some people find short travel distances to be too abrupt. In such cases, if you prefer a more substantial depth to your key presses, the RedBlue switch with its longer travel distance could be a better fit. Overall, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable and satisfying to the individual user.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 Baby Kangaroo switch is best known for its crisp, light tactile feel and marbley sound profile. When typing with these switches, users can expect a snappy and responsive feel, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs. The keys provide a bouncy feedback sensation, giving them a spring-like and elastic feel. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience with reduced friction. Sound-wise, the Baby Kangaroo switch is clacky and resonant, producing a sharp, high-pitched sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, similar to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding.
On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch is particularly suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience. These switches offer a mild and gentle feel, falling within a safe middle-ground zone that most users will find approachable. Like the Baby Kangaroo, the RedBlue switch also has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. However, there is limited information on the specific qualities of the RedBlue switch.
While the information provided gives a clear understanding of the subjective qualities of the Baby Kangaroo switch, there is less information available for the SP-Star RedBlue switch. Based on what is known, the Baby Kangaroo switch offers a crisp, light tactile feel with a bouncy and polished sensation, as well as a clacky and resonant sound profile. As for the RedBlue switch, its feel is described as mild and polished, but there is limited information on its sound profile. Therefore, it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the two switches, and it is suggested to try both switches in order to fully understand their similarities or differences in feel and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy tactile switch with a crisp and light switch-like tactility, along with a marbley sound profile, then the Gateron Baby Kangaroo would be the ideal choice for you. It produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, providing a sharp and percussive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo offers a snappy and bouncy typing experience, thanks to its responsive and lively characteristics.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, then the SP-Star RedBlue would be more suited to your needs. It has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is medium-light, providing a comfortable typing experience. The RedBlue produces a low-pitched sound when pressed, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The switch offers a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the SP-Star RedBlue depends on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and feel. Consider whether you prioritize a medium-heavy tactile switch with a unique marbley sound profile, or a medium-light linear switch with a lower-pitched, bass-heavy sound. Additionally, think about whether you prefer a snappy and bouncy typing experience, or a more mild and polished feel.
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