Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options often compared are the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, both tactile switches offering unique characteristics. The Baby Kangaroo stands out for its crisp, light tactility and marbly sound profile, giving users a clacky and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion boasts a pronounced tactile bump with a medium weight feel of 63.5g bottom-out, providing an invigorating yet balanced typing sensation. While the Baby Kangaroo leans towards a more high-pitched and bouncy feel, the Thunder Shadow offers a neutral sound signature. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals, making it essential to delve deeper beyond generalities to determine the best switch for your specific typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow are quite similar, with both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to the aesthetics of the switch. However, where these switches differ is in their bottom housing material, with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizing nylon while the Thunder Shadow also opts for nylon in its bottom housing.
While both switches have a polycarbonate top housing, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing enhances the sound experience by creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can influence the overall typing experience and sound output of each switch.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials are distinct. The bottom housing has a larger impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing is more pronounced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow plays a crucial role in determining the tactile and auditory feedback for users during typing.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch differ slightly in terms of weight. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a slightly lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Thunder Shadow has a heavier force of 63.5 grams compared to the Baby Kangaroo's 67 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range, providing a balance between responsiveness and typing comfort. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be preferred for those who prefer a slightly lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions, while the Thunder Shadow may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Thunder Shadow slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Baby Kangaroo. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quick response times. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for a quicker response, the Baby Kangaroo may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly more substantial keypress with a longer travel distance, the Thunder Shadow could be the switch for you. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, providing different options for individuals based on their preferences.
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 Aflion Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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 is known for its unique and crisp "marbly" sound profile, which is resonant and high-pitched, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a more neutral sound signature, suitable for a wide range of applications due to its moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) produces a clacky and sharp sound, the Thunder Shadow provides a balanced and harmonious sound experience, showcasing Aflion's commitment to tailored innovation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offering a more distinctive and tactile sound and the Thunder Shadow providing a versatile and neutral sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is known for its snappy and bouncy tactile feedback, offering a lively and responsive typing experience. The switch is also described as polished, providing a smooth and refined finish that enhances key travel. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow is characterized as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile bump, but the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may offer a more dynamic and lively typing experience compared to the Thunder Shadow. Ultimately, the feel of a switch is a highly personal preference, and users should consider their typing style and preferences when choosing between these two switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a unique and marbly sound profile along with a snappy and bouncy tactile feedback, while the Thunder Shadow offers a neutral sound signature and an invigorating typing feel. Both switches have their own strengths and are suitable for different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, users should consider factors such as sound preference, typing feel, and overall typing experience when selecting between these two switches to ensure a satisfying and tailored mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switches, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams and enjoy a crisp, light tactile bump with a unique marbly sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams and a neutral sound signature with a pronounced tactile bump for a balanced typing experience, then the Aflion Thunder Shadow might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for, whether it be a snappy and marbly feel with the Baby Kangaroo (V2) or a balanced and invigorating experience with the Thunder Shadow.
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