Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the experience can vary significantly based on individual preferences and typing styles. The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) excels in providing a crispy, tactile response, complemented by its unique marbly sound profile that delivers a delightful auditory feedback. Known for its clacky, high-pitched resonances and snappy feel, this switch appeals to users who enjoy a playful and lively typing sensation. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more refined experience characterized by a smooth keystroke and a neutral sound signature, producing the coveted "thock" that many enthusiasts desire. Its superb performance is amplified by a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble and enhances precision, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort and stability in their typing. Both switches bring distinct qualities to the table, catering to different tastes and preferences in keyboard use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), one notable similarity stands out: both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice inherently gives them a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. Aesthetically, the translucency of the polycarbonate is advantageous for users who incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to pass through beautifully, showcasing vibrant lighting effects. As a result, both switches can deliver a similarly bright auditory experience, particularly during the actuation and release of the keys.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Sticky Rice (V2) are made from nylon, a characteristic that aligns each switch’s acoustic properties. Nylon is renowned for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs sound more readily than harder plastics. This characteristic contributes to a duller and rounder sound, particularly noticeable during the bottom-out phase of the switch. Here, while the top housing generates a sharp and clear sound during release, the nylon bottom serves to temper that sound, creating a balanced auditory experience that is rich and satisfying.
The interplay of the different housing materials in each switch ultimately suggests that users may experience unique sensations depending on the key press dynamics. With polycarbonate on top, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) excel in creating an engaging sound profile during depression, while the nylon bottom housing deepens the acoustic experience during the release. This means that while the top housings produce similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal, the bottom housings provide a contrasting auditory experience that adds depth, catering to the preferences of different keyboard enthusiasts. Overall, the combination of these materials in both switches ensures a comprehensive sensory experience, balancing brightness with warmth.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, there are notable differences. The Baby Kangaroo has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sticky Rice switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to those who favor a softer touch, particularly beneficial for longer typing sessions or gaming. This means that the Baby Kangaroo is the heavier option while the Sticky Rice is the lighter one. Both switches can deliver a satisfying experience, but users will likely choose based on their preference for either a firm or a lighter keystroke engagement.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, the Baby Kangaroo measures at 3.4 mm, while the Sticky Rice has a slightly greater travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Baby Kangaroo (V2) the shorter option, catering to users who appreciate quicker response times, such as gamers who might prefer the snappier feel. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2), with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial key press, offering a more tactile and traditional experience. Ultimately, both switches are designed to provide distinct typing experiences—opting for the Baby Kangaroo (V2) could result in a more responsive typing feel, while the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a heartier depth for those who prefer a more immersive key press.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 considering sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out with its distinctive clacky and marbly auditory profile. Users can expect a sharp, bright sound that is both crisp and resonant, reminiscent of high-pitched tones akin to colliding billiard balls or tapping on marble, creating an engaging auditory experience. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is characterized by a neutral sound signature, which leans towards the coveted "thock" that many enthusiasts appreciate, though specific descriptors for its sound are not detailed. While the Baby Kangaroo offers vibrant acoustics, the Sticky Rice promises a more subdued and balanced auditory experience, catering to different preferences.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) delivers a snappy and bouncy typing experience, offering lively feedback thanks to its responsive design. The polished nature of the switch results in a smooth and refined keystroke, minimizing friction and enhancing the overall sensation of typing. Unfortunately, details about the specific tactile feel of the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) are not provided; thus, one could only speculate about its responsiveness and tactile feedback. However, with its focus on a super smooth keystroke, it seems to offer comfort for those who prioritize a refined tactile sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) excels in providing a lively typing experience with dynamic sound qualities and a responsive, polished feel. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) aims for a refined, smooth experience while boasting a neutral sound signature that many enthusiasts desire. Ultimately, the decision between the two will hinge on your personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, and while the Baby Kangaroo is specific in its auditory and tactile characteristics, the Sticky Rice's offerings remain somewhat unknown but promise a compelling experience nonetheless.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) largely depends on your personal typing preferences and what experience you seek from your keyboard. If you're looking for a typing experience that offers a tactile bump with a medium-heavy actuation force and a sound profile characterized by its clacky and marbly qualities, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is an excellent choice. This switch provides a snappy, responsive feel combined with a lively and bouncy feedback, ideal for those who enjoy an engaging and dynamic typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a light touch with a refined, smooth keystroke that leans towards a balanced auditory experience, you would benefit more from the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2). With its lower actuation force and neutral sound profile, this switch caters to users who appreciate a delicate "thock" and a polished feel without the weighty bottoming out of traditional tactile switches. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you desire an energetic and tactile typing experience or a smooth and refined one, ensuring that your keyboard provides exactly what you need for productivity or enjoyment.
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