Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Baby Kangaroo switch offers users a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a unique marbly sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a medium level of tactility, making it a highly recommended choice for those seeking a tactile switch. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, this variant offers an approachable tactility, accompanied by a deep and thocky sound profile. While these general characteristics give us a brief understanding of each switch, let's dive deeper to help you decide which one is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring have several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, creating a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches offer similar sound qualities and aesthetic appeal in terms of their top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the switches differ in material. The Baby Kangaroo uses nylon for its bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing. This choice provides the switch with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing. The material of the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In summary, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches share similarities in their top housings. Both utilize polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound profile and is ideal for RGB lighting. However, their bottom housings differ, with the Baby Kangaroo featuring nylon for a deeper sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring incorporates polycarbonate for a sharper sound. The choice of bottom housing material affects 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, we find some notable differences. The Baby Kangaroo has a slightly higher actuation force of 59 grams, whereas the Shadow (Ink) requires a lighter actuation force of 48 grams. This means that the Shadow (Ink) switch will require a lighter touch to register a keystroke. On the other hand, when it comes to bottoming out, the Baby Kangaroo has a heavier force of 67 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) which bottoms out at 55 grams. This indicates that the Baby Kangaroo switch will provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience due to the higher resistance when pressing all the way down.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) switch with its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the contrary, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more pronounced tactile feedback may gravitate towards the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. It is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium force range, providing a balance between ease of typing and a more robust typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is clear that the Baby Kangaroo has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring falls within the most common travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Baby Kangaroo offers a more shallow travel distance. However, with the increasing preference for shorter travel distances among gamers, the Baby Kangaroo may be more appealing for those seeking faster response times. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switch is known for its unique characteristics. Users often describe it as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Additionally, it has a marbly sound profile that is resonant and high-pitched. This combination of crispness, brightness, and percussion gives a distinct auditory experience. On the other hand, information about the sound qualities of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is currently unavailable. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Baby Kangaroo is often praised for its snappiness and bounciness. They feature longer or dual-staged springs, resulting in a highly responsive and lively typing experience. The keys provide a spring-like or elastic feedback, rebounding when pressed. Furthermore, the Baby Kangaroo switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish. This smoothness reduces friction and ensures a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is also reported to have a bouncy feel, providing a similar spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. However, no additional information is available about its tactile qualities.
Taking into account the available information, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switch stands out for its crisp and light switch-like tactility, as well as its unique marbley sound profile. It offers a snappy and bouncy feel, combined with a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, while information about the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch's sound and tactile qualities is currently unknown, it shares the bounciness characteristic. If you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow switch might still provide a satisfying experience. However, if you desire similar subjective qualities to the Baby Kangaroo switch, the available information suggests that the Gateron option would be the preferred choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and enjoy a crisp, light switch-like tactility, along with a clacky and marbly sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, along with a deep and thocky sound profile, then we highly recommend the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch. Both switches offer a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, but the Baby Kangaroo also offers a snappy feel. Ultimately, it is important to consider how the keyboard switch will complement your typing style and the overall experience you wish to achieve.
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