Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch to the HMX Swift linear switch, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is praised for its crisp, light tactility and distinctive marbley sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a clacky and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile, silky smoothness, and delicate 42g actuation force, appealing to users who prefer a quieter and smoother typing 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
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Swift both offer unique characteristics in their housing materials. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Swift utilizes a nylon top housing for a deeper and fuller sound. Despite their differences, both materials offer distinct advantages. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clear and resonant sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting, while nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Swift utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material provides a deep and full sound profile, as nylon's softness absorbs sound more effectively. The bottom housing's impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch cannot be overlooked, as it contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. The consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the HMX Swift may come down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Swift provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Both switches benefit from the use of nylon in their bottom housings, which contribute to a consistent typing experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile or a deeper sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is clear that the Swift is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a medium-heavy actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Swift makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer different degrees of tactile feedback, with the Swift being lighter and the Baby Kangaroo (V2) having a medium-heavy feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Baby Kangaroo has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Swift has a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. The Baby Kangaroo's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter distances generally result in quicker typing speeds. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Swift may offer a more substantial keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance providing more responsiveness and the longer travel distance offering a more pronounced keypress sensation.
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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 crisp, bright clackiness along with a resonant, high-pitched marbly sound profile. This results in a tactile experience that is both sharp and clean, providing an immersive auditory experience for the user. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is primarily described as clacky, delivering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Swift's deeper sound profile due to its full nylon housings adds a sense of depth to the overall auditory experience. While both switches offer a clacky sound, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a more varied sound profile with additional resonant and high-pitched tones.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its snappy and bouncy feedback, giving users a lively and responsive typing experience. The switch's polished feel ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing sensation. Conversely, the HMX Swift linear switch offers an easy-to-press operation with a feathery touch, requiring minimal force to activate. The switch also provides bounce-back feedback, further contributing to a comfortable and low-impact typing feel. Both switches share the quality of bouncy feedback, providing users with an enjoyable rebound sensation when typing.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch excels in providing a unique sound profile that combines clackiness with resonant and high-pitched tones, while offering a snappy and polished feel for a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch stands out with its deep sound profile and easy-to-press operation, accompanied by a feathery touch and bounce-back feedback. While both switches offer a bouncy typing experience, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a more varied auditory experience with its distinct sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider factors such as your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light tactility with a marbley sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate a deeper sound profile with a silky smooth feel, the HMX Swift linear switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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