Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the characteristics of tactile and linear options, such as the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Huano Strawberry Latte. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) embodies a tactile feel with its crisp actuation and marbley sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a pronounced feedback with every keystroke. This gives typists an engaging experience, particularly when they appreciate the satisfying feedback of each press. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte stands out for its super smooth linear action, providing a seamless typing experience without any tactile bump. This switch is ideal for users who prefer a quieter and uninterrupted key press, perfect for both gaming and extended typing sessions where a smoother response is paramount. While the Baby Kangaroo offers a more tactile and resonant experience, the Strawberry Latte leans towards a balanced sound profile that satisfies those seeking elegance in their keystrokes. 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
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
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Huano Strawberry Latte, notable distinctions arise, especially in their top housings. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) boasts a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which enhances clarity and resonance in sound profiles—this creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte features a POK top housing, celebrated for its smoothness and durability, which, while it may lend a clacky feel to the keypress, does not match the brighter sound produced by polycarbonate. This means that users seeking a vibrant sound likely would prefer the Baby Kangaroo (V2), while those vying for a softer auditory touch and durable material might lean towards the Strawberry Latte.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are crafted from nylon, a classic and widely regarded material in the keyboard industry. This shared choice leads to a similar auditory outcome; both switches will exhibit a deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out. Nylon’s soft properties are ideal for sound absorption, providing a rounder feel that softens the impact of the switch actuation. This alignment in bottom housing choice ensures that even with differing top materials, the typing experience retains a level of consistency in sound when keys are pressed down, reflecting the solid qualities of nylon.
Overall, the distinct top housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Huano Strawberry Latte lead to a unique sound experience in terms of the key release, while both switches maintain a shared, fuller sound during the keypress due to their identical nylon bottom housings. Consequently, when utilizing both switches in a keyboard, expect a harmony between the enhanced clarity of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) during release and the deeper tones from both switches upon actuation, illustrating how varying sound characteristics can exist side by side while providing specific auditory benefits to the user.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch to the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) boasts an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte has a significantly lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a much more suitable option for those who prefer a softer touch during typing or gaming sessions. Therefore, the Gateron switch requires a stronger push, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, while the Huano switch offers a lighter experience, which can facilitate longer usage without fatigue. Ultimately, users looking for similar keystroke responsiveness should be aware that they will experience different levels of tactile feedback and effort based on these forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges: the Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Strawberry Latte boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is the shorter option, which might appeal to gamers or users who prefer quicker response times. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte's longer travel distance may provide a more significant tactile feedback and a more pronounced depth that some users favor. Those who appreciate a more responsive feel may lean towards the Baby Kangaroo (V2), while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Strawberry Latte.
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 Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) is characterized by a clacky, marbly, and high-pitched tone, which produces a sharp and percussive auditory feedback when typing. This bright resonance can be likened to the sound of billiard balls colliding, offering a clean and immersive auditory experience. In comparison, the Huano Strawberry Latte is known for its balanced sound profile, striking a middle ground between being not too quiet and not overly resonant. Although no specific descriptors are provided for the sound qualities of the Strawberry Latte, its emphasis on balance suggests a pleasant auditory performance that will likely resonate well with those who appreciate a sound that isn’t overly assertive or dulled.
When it comes to the feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out with its snappy, bouncy, and polished characteristics. The snappiness provides a highly responsive typing experience, enhanced by longer springs that deliver a lively sensation with every keystroke. The bouncy nature of the switch creates a delightful rebound effect, while the polished finish ensures smooth key travel and minimized friction. On the other hand, the feel of the Huano Strawberry Latte is not elaborated upon, leaving its tactile sensations open to interpretation. However, given the reputation of Huano switches for producing smooth action, you can expect a satisfactory experience that aligns closely with the smoothness that typists often desire.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a crisp and engaging auditory experience alongside a lively and responsive tactile feel. Its unique sound profile complements its snappy and polished feel, making it a compelling choice for users who enjoy pronounced feedback while typing. While the Huano Strawberry Latte also promises a balanced sound, its tactile characteristics remain unspecified; however, its reputation suggests a smooth typing experience. Overall, both switches cater to different preferences, and the choice may ultimately hinge on whether you favor the dynamic auditory and tactile feedback of the Baby Kangaroo or the balanced subtlety of the Strawberry Latte.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch should largely depend on your typing preferences and the typing experience you seek. If you appreciate a tactile feedback sensation that’s snappy and bouncy, along with a crisp and resonant sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would serve you well. This medium-heavy switch boasts a delightful tactile bump, making it an ideal choice for typists or gamers who enjoy a more engaged and lively feel while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience, the Strawberry Latte linear switch may be more up your alley. With its light actuation force and smooth key travel, it’s excellent for long typing sessions or fast-paced gaming where you need to minimize fatigue and maximize speed. In the end, your decision comes down to whether you prioritize the tactile sound and feel of the Baby Kangaroo or the silky smoothness and lighter actuation of the Strawberry Latte. Choose wisely based on what aspects of typing you find most enjoyable!
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