Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Bsun Tomcat present distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2), known for its tactile feedback, delivers a crisp and light switch-like tactility, creating an engaging typing experience complemented by a marbley sound profile that resonates with users who appreciate a more auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat, classified as a linear switch, offers a super smooth typing experience with Ly stems, eliminating any tactile bump and providing a consistent keystroke from top to bottom. This makes the Tomcat an ideal choice for those who desire fluidity and silence, particularly for gaming or extended typing sessions. Both switches have their unique appeal—while the Baby Kangaroo invites a dynamic and responsive interaction, the Tomcat focuses on seamless operation. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 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
Ly
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Bsun Tomcat both feature polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in striking similarities regarding sound profile and aesthetic appeal. Both switches produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience, attributed to the stiffness characteristic of polycarbonate. The translucency inherent in polycarbonate also allows for optimal RGB lighting effects, enhancing visual feedback during use. Because both switches utilize the same top housing material, users can expect a consistent sound quality and lighting interaction, making them an excellent choice for gamers and typists who value both auditory and visual stimuli.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Tomcat are identical as well, being made of nylon. This material choice influences the overall sound profile and feel during typing. Specifically, nylon is softer than polycarbonate, which means it absorbs sound effectively, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The rounded sound quality produced by nylon contrasts with the sharper notes from polycarbonate in the top housing, creating a balanced acoustic profile. As both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing, the deeper bottom-out sound and tactile feedback will be consistent across both models, providing a satisfying typing experience.
Overall, the complementary combination of the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing in both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and Bsun Tomcat allows for a harmonious blend of auditory qualities. The higher-pitched clarity from the polycarbonate top resonates with the deeper, more muted sounds of the nylon bottom, resulting in a well-rounded sound profile suitable for various applications. Users can expect similar auditory performance and tactile feedback from both switch types, making them interchangeable options for those seeking clarity and depth in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch with the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) 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 Bsun Tomcat features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, appealing to those who favor a more effortless typing experience, especially during long sessions at work or gaming. Consequently, the Baby Kangaroo is better suited for users who enjoy a firmer push feel, while the Tomcat will likely be more comfortable for individuals seeking less strain during prolonged usage. Thus, if you prioritize lighter switches for quicker typing or extended use, the Tomcat is the clear choice, whereas those who appreciate a heavier switch may gravitate towards the Baby Kangaroo.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) boasts a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Tomcat offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Gateron Baby Kangaroo the shorter of the two options, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat provides a more traditional feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may find to be more satisfying and less abrupt. Thus, if you're leaning towards greater responsiveness, the shorter Baby Kangaroo would be the better fit, while those who prefer a deeper, more substantial keypress might opt for the Tomcat.
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 Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99 per 10 switches.
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) exhibits a unique combination of clacky and marbly qualities. This results in a crisp and bright sound with a sharp, percussive tone that is both immersive and resonant. The high-pitched nature of the switch adds an engaging auditory profile, making each keystroke feel sharp and dynamic. At the same time, the Tomcat linear switch does not have an available sound description, which means its auditory characteristics remain unknown; however, users can generally expect a smoother, albeit quieter, sound typical of linear switches.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a delightful typing experience characterized by its snappy and bouncy feedback. The responsiveness provided by its longer springs enhances the overall liveliness of each keystroke, while the polished finish ensures a smooth and refined journey throughout its travel. On the other hand, the Tomcat switch lacks specific descriptions regarding its tactile feel, which leaves us without definitive information about its overall typing experience. However, linear switches are often known for their smooth action, which could suggest a pleasant yet distinct typing experience compared to the tactile nature of the Baby Kangaroo.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) shines with its crisp, resonant sound and lively tactile feel, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch leaves some of its subjective qualities unknown, particularly in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for an engaging auditory experience coupled with a responsive tactile feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would likely suit you best. Meanwhile, the Tomcat could still provide a smooth and quieter typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a minimalist approach. Ultimately, your choice will depend on the specific qualities you value in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and desired experience. If you favor a more tactile feedback with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is an excellent choice. Its snappy, responsive feel along with a crisp, marbly sound profile delivers an engaging typing experience that can enhance both coding and gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and smoother key presses, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch suits you better. The Tomcat's medium-light actuation force and its super smooth typing experience make it ideal for those who prioritize speed and fluidity, particularly in fast-paced gaming or extensive writing. In summary, choose the Baby Kangaroo (V2) for a tactile, engaging experience with auditory feedback, while the Tomcat is perfect for a seamless, quiet typing experience.
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