Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it becomes evident that they each offer unique features catered to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo switch provides a crisp, light tactile experience with a distinct marbley sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a 'clacky' and 'resonant' typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is designed for gamers, offering smooth keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound, ideal for those who prefer an 'easy-to-press' and 'silky' feel. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, we find that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Silver Pro provide a different typing experience. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out on these switches. This difference in material between the top and bottom housing affects the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
While both switches offer similar sound profiles due to the shared polycarbonate top housing, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Akko V3 Silver Pro diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) boasts a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in these switches contributes to their unique sound profiles and overall typing feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Silver Pro is the lighter option. With an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, the V3 Silver Pro provides a light typing experience. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a medium-heavy actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the V3 Silver Pro, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Baby Kangaroo (V2). Both switches provide unique typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the V3 Silver Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, which is preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the specific tactile feel and response desired.
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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for producing a clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, giving users a sharp and snappy typing experience with clean and sharp auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is described as having a high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and crisp auditory experience. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the accompanying keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is characterized by its snappy, bouncy, and polished typing feel, providing a responsive and lively feedback sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is highlighted for its easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky typing feel, offering gentle resistance, smooth and buttery keystrokes, and reduced finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches provide different tactile experiences that cater to the individual preferences of users, whether they prefer a more responsive and springy feel or a smooth and effortless typing experience.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel for the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, users can expect distinct differences in their typing experiences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a crisp, light tactility with a marbly sound profile and a bouncy, polished feel, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro delivers a pleasing bassy sound with an easy-to-press, creamy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, typing style, and the desired auditory and tactile feedback for an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light tactility with a marbley sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force, a high-pitched sound profile, and a smooth, buttery typing experience with reduced finger fatigue, then the Akko V3 Silver Pro is the switch for you. Consider your typing style, gaming needs, and sound preference to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a keyboard switch.
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