Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Type A offer distinct experiences for users. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is known for its crisp, light tactility and unique marbley sound profile, providing a clacky and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Type A stands out for its innovative design focused on travel distances and factory lubing techniques, resulting in a medium-weight switch with a deep sound signature. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a bouncy and polished feel, the Type A provides a more subdued and neutral typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gateron Type A, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material. However, the Type A's nylon top housing offers a different sound experience compared to the Baby Kangaroo (V2)'s polycarbonate top housing. While the polycarbonate in the Baby Kangaroo (V2) creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, the nylon in the Type A produces a duller and rounder sound. This difference highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound profile of a switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) stands out with its polycarbonate top housing that allows for translucency, making it compatible with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A's nylon top housing offers a classic look and feel that may appeal to those who prefer a more traditional design. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize functionality and sound quality, with the housing materials playing a key role in shaping the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a brighter, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, each switch offers a unique sound profile based on its housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Type A ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a rich sound profile, the differences in their top housing materials result in distinct sound characteristics. Whether you prioritize a sharper, crisper sound or a rounder, fuller sound, understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help you make an informed decision based on your individual preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality materials that deliver a satisfying typing experience tailored to different sound preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Type A is the lighter option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is the heavier option with an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) requires a slightly stronger push for typing compared to the Type A. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Type A may be more suitable, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Baby Kangaroo (V2). Despite the differences in weight, both switches provide a tactile feedback and actuation point that can enhance typing performance.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, we find that the Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Type A's 4 mm. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a shallower press, which can be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Type A's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile and substantive key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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) tactile switch is known for its clacky and marbly sound profile, providing a crisp, sharp, and resonant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch is described as having a neutral and subdued sound, offering a moderate sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is characterized by its snappy and bouncy tactile feedback, giving users a responsive and lively typing experience. Additionally, the switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction for a sleek typing sensation. Conversely, information on the tactile feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not available at this time.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch with a unique and lively sound profile along with a snappy and polished feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a moderate and deeper sound signature, the Gateron Type A linear switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light tactile experience with a marbley sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo (V2) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a sound profile that leans towards the deeper side with a more neutral or subdued feel, then the Gateron Type A linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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