Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Smoothie stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Baby Kangaroo offers a tactile typing experience with a crisp, light tactility and a unique marbley sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a clacky, high-pitched switch. On the other hand, the Smoothie is a linear switch made of POM material, providing a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. If you value a buttery, low-pitched typing experience, the Smoothie might be the better choice for you. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Smoothie, we can see that both switches have distinct qualities that contribute to their sound profiles. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Smoothie's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched sound with clear resonance, while the POM top housing of the Smoothie provides a pleasing and unique sound on the deeper side.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie also uses a POM bottom housing, contributing to a similarly deep and muted sound. Despite the difference in material, both switches offer a unique sound experience influenced by the characteristics of their respective bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) absorbs more sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile that may appeal to different preferences.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Smoothie will depend on personal preference for sound profiles. While the top and bottom housings of each switch offer unique characteristics that impact the overall sound experience, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with their respective housing materials. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of POM, both switches offer a range of sound profiles that cater to different preferences, making them both solid options for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a unique typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the Smoothie is the lighter option. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a medium-heavy actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. This makes the Smoothie a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer unique benefits based on personal preference, with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) catering to those who prefer a heavier push feel, while the Smoothie is ideal for individuals looking for a lighter actuation force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Smoothie has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Baby Kangaroo. In general, a shorter travel distance like that of the Baby Kangaroo is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance like that of the Smoothie may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feeling. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, so in terms of travel distance, they will provide similar results in terms of responsiveness and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for the specific type of typing or gaming experience 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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 (V2) tactile switch offers a unique marbly sound profile that is crisp, bright, and percussive, with a high-pitched and resonant tone that provides an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is known for its thocky sound signature, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying thud or knock when pressed and released, with a low-pitched and subdued tone that offers a more bass-heavy and mellow sound. Both switches provide distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on whether you prefer a sharp and resonant sound (Baby Kangaroo) or a deep and mellow sound (Smoothie).
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is described as snappy, bouncy, and polished, providing a super responsive and lively typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is known for its buttery, creamy, and silky feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with seamless and effortless typing sensation. While the Baby Kangaroo switch focuses on responsiveness and liveliness, the Smoothie switch emphasizes smoothness and uniformity in typing, making them suitable for users who prefer different tactile sensations.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo switch provides a marbly and high-pitched sound with a snappy and bouncy feel, while the Smoothie switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound with a buttery and creamy feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience, ensuring that users can find the switch that best suits their individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a tactile switch with a crisp, light tactility and a marbly sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and enjoy a linear switch with a thocky sound signature and a smooth, buttery typing experience, then the Gateron Smoothie would be the way to go. Ultimately, your personal preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel will guide you in selecting the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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