Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Dareu Snow offer unique typing experiences worth comparing. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is a tactile switch known for its crisp, light tactility and marbley sound profile, categorized as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'High-pitched', 'Resonant', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow is a linear switch that utilizes POK material for a smooth typing experience with a deeper sound signature, categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. While the Baby Kangaroo offers a tactile typing experience with a distinctive sound profile, the Dareu Snow provides a smooth linear feel with a deeper sound signature. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 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
POK
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Dareu Snow feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile and durability. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) uses a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffness. This makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Snow's POK top housing offers a smooth and clacky typing experience, with exceptional durability and wear resistance. While both materials have their own advantages, the polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may appeal to those looking for a more resonant sound, while the POK top housing of the Snow prioritizes smoothness and durability.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Snow utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer compared to other plastics, absorbing more sound and resulting in a rounder sound profile. This ensures a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying sound when bottoming out keys. Since both switches feature nylon bottom housings, users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. Whether typing on the Baby Kangaroo (V2) or the Snow, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a pleasant typing experience with a deep and full sound.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Dareu Snow may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and durability. The polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prioritize sound clarity, while the POK top housing of the Snow provides a smooth and durable typing experience. Both switches share the use of nylon bottom housing, ensuring a deep and full sound profile with comfortable typing feedback. Whether you prefer the sharpness of polycarbonate or the smoothness of POK, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch differ in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Kangaroo has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Snow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a medium typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Snow switch, which allows for longer typing sessions and smoother keystrokes. On the other hand, the Baby Kangaroo switch is better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference for the actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, the Baby Kangaroo has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Snow's 3.3 mm. While both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distance, the small difference may be noticeable to some users. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Snow, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Baby Kangaroo. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between these two switches may not be significant enough to drastically impact the typing or gaming experience, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall feel and performance.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 offers a unique combination of a clacky and marbly sound profile that is sharp, bright, and high-pitched with a resonant quality, providing an immersive auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch is characterized by a thocky sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying, along with a neutral sound profile suitable for various uses. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) leaning towards a sharper and brighter sound, while the Snow switch provides a deeper and more bass-heavy tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its snappy and bouncy feedback, offering a responsive and lively typing experience due to its longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch results in a smooth and refined key travel, reducing friction and enhancing the overall typing sensation. Conversely, the Dareu Snow linear switch also offers a bouncy feel with spring-like feedback, providing a rebound effect when keys are pressed. Both switches prioritize a tactile experience, with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) emphasizing responsiveness and a polished finish, while the Snow switch focuses on a consistent and lively feedback during typing.
Considering all available information, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a sharp, bright, and high-pitched sound profile with a snappy and bouncy feel, while the Snow switch offers a deep, rich, and satisfying thocky sound with a bouncy feedback sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound characteristics, key feel, and overall typing experience desired. Both switches promise a unique and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of quality, but with different attributes to cater to various preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a crisp, light tactility and clacky, marbly sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a smooth, thocky sound profile and a bouncy feel, then the Dareu Snow might better suit your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel when typing on your mechanical keyboard.
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