Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly impact both typing experience and sound profile. The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out with its tactile feedback and unique sound signature, offering a crisp and light tactile feel that many typists enjoy. Its "clacky" and "marbly" sound profile can add an engaging auditory dimension to your typing, making each keystroke feel more dynamic. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g presents a contrasting option for those who prioritize a silent typing experience. With a well-balanced 53g bottom-out force, these linear switches provide a smooth and quiet keystroke, reminiscent of gentle raindrops, ideal for office environments or shared workspaces. Choosing between the tactile delight of the Baby Kangaroo and the serene silence of the Silent Sakura ultimately hinges on your individual preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g differ significantly in their housing materials, leading to distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is highly regarded for its ability to resonate clearly. This material's stiffness allows for a more pronounced auditory experience, especially beneficial for RGB setups where the translucency of polycarbonate enhances lighting effects. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing dampens sound, producing a deeper and fuller tone, which contributes to a more rounded overall sound when actuating keys. Thus, while the top housing shines in projection and clarity, the bottom housing enriches the auditory experience by softening and rounding it.
On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g utilizes a nylon top housing paired with a polycarbonate bottom housing, creating a different auditory dynamic. The nylon top absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile akin to that found in the Baby Kangaroo (V2)'s nylon bottom housing. This combination enhances the switch's ability to mute sharp sounds, perfect for quieter environments where noise is a concern. With a polycarbonate bottom housing, though, the Silent Sakura introduces certain characteristics such as elaborate clarity and a sharper sound at the bottom-out point. This means that while the top housing contributes to a muted experience, the bottom housing steps up to infuse some brightness into the switch action.
Despite these distinct housing materials, both switches can yield somewhat similar results in terms of overall sound and tactile feel due to the contrasting but complementary nature of their materials. For instance, the polycarbonate and nylon mixed configuration of each switch means that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) can achieve a well-balanced crispness combined with depth, while the Silent Sakura achieves a muted response with bursts of clarity, particularly at the bottom-out phase. Users can enjoy a tactile experience that is finely tuned to their preferences depending on which switch they choose, all while experiencing differentiated sound profiles that can be enjoyed in a variety of typing contexts.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, we see a distinct difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, classifying it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a similarly lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. Due to these differences, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Conversely, the heftier forces of the Baby Kangaroo may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience, providing clearer tactile feedback and a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference regarding typing feel and comfort over prolonged use.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the Baby Kangaroo offers a shorter actuation distance, which can be advantageous for gamers looking for quicker response times and a more responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura's longer travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel with deeper keystrokes, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback. Therefore, if you are seeking a switch that allows for faster actuation, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be the better choice, whereas those who value a more traditional and hearty depth in their keystrokes might prefer the HMX Silent Sakura.
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 Silent Sakura - 53g comes in at $3.50 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
Regarding sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a lively auditory experience characterized by its clacky and marbly sound profile. When pressed, the switch produces a sharp and snappy noise, resonating with a high-pitched tone that can be both crisp and bright. This results in an engaging and immersive typing sound that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch is specifically designed for a whisper-quiet experience. While the exact sound characteristics are not detailed, its purpose is to avoid producing any distracting noises, catering to users who prefer a subtle and serene typing environment that’s reminiscent of gentle raindrops tapping against a window.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) showcases snappy and bouncy qualities, creating a responsive typing experience that feels both lively and engaging. Users will appreciate the polished finish that delivers smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall tactile satisfaction. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch lacks a tactile bump, which means it might not provide the same dynamic feedback during keystrokes. However, as a linear switch, it ensures a consistent and smooth actuation throughout the keypress, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more uniform feel without tactile interruptions.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) excels in both sound and feel, offering a lively auditory and tactile experience that flourishes in environments where feedback and engagement are valued. Meanwhile, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g prioritizes a quiet and smooth typing experience, ideal for those seeking solitude in their typing and the absence of noise distractions. Depending on your personal preference—whether you favor an engaging sound and feel or a serene, linear typing experience—you can find an excellent option in either switch type.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a more tactile and snappy feel with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the ideal choice. Its crisp, marbly sound profile and lively feedback create an engaging typing experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy a responsive keyboard that delivers auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter environment or spend long hours typing and need a switch that minimizes noise while maintaining a satisfying keystroke, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is your best bet. Its medium-light bottom-out force and whisper-quiet actuation ensure a calm typing experience, allowing you to focus without distractions. Therefore, consider your typing style, ambient noise considerations, and personal preferences to decide which switch aligns better with your needs.
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