Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Gazzew U4T both offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. The Baby Kangaroo is renowned for its crisp and light switch-like tactility, providing a satisfying feel with each keystroke. Additionally, it boasts a distinctive marbley sound profile, adding a touch of elegance to your typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T stands out with its harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. The U4T delivers a bassy 'thock' sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience. Its assertive tactile feedback ensures that every keystroke is accompanied by a palpable and satisfying sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Baby Kangaroo and the Gazzew U4T differ in their choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom housings of the switches. The Baby Kangaroo utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing made of a softer plastic blend known as "boba plastic". This blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile, providing a different auditory experience compared to the Baby Kangaroo.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Baby Kangaroo employs a nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T also utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend for the bottom housing, offering a similar rich and deep sound profile as the top housing. This "boba plastic" blend, due to its softness, contributes to an overall satisfying sound experience.
While the Baby Kangaroo and the Gazzew U4T have different housing materials for both the top and bottom housings, they both prioritize delivering a distinct and high-quality sound profile. The Baby Kangaroo's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Gazzew U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing provides a rich and deep sound experience. Similarly, both switches' choice of housing materials for the bottom housing ensures a fuller sound profile, with the Baby Kangaroo's nylon and the Gazzew U4T's proprietary blend contributing to a satisfying auditory feedback. Thus, although the specific materials differ, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality from both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Gazzew U4T tactile switches, some notable differences and similarities can be observed. The actuation force of the Baby Kangaroo is 59 grams, which provides a medium-heavy feel, while the exact actuation force of the U4T is unknown. However, the U4T has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls into the medium range.
In terms of weight, the Baby Kangaroo seems to be slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 67 grams. This can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the U4T's bottom out force of 62 grams offers a slightly lighter option. This lighter weight may be preferred by individuals who value typing for longer periods of time without feeling fatigued.
Although the actuation force of the U4T is unknown, it is possible that it could be similar to the Baby Kangaroo, resulting in a comparable typing experience. Both switches provide tactile feedback, but the specific actuation force of the U4T remains uncertain. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding typing experience and desired weight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that they are different in length. The Baby Kangaroo has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the U4T has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 4.0mm length is a more traditional travel distance, offering a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the 3.4 mm distance is considered shorter and is favored by gamers seeking faster response times. So, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Baby Kangaroo with its shorter travel distance would be the better option. However, if you prefer a more substantial and deeper key press, the Gazzew U4T's longer travel distance would be more suitable.
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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo is known for its clacky and marbly sound profile. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a resonant and high-pitched quality. This switch offers an immersive auditory experience, with clean and sharp sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is described as having a bassy 'thock' sound profile. It offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The U4T provides a satisfying and distinct sound, with a strong and crisp tactile bump being prominently felt.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo offers a snappy and bouncy feedback sensation. It is super responsive, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is described as having a sharp tactile feedback. Its strong and crisp tactile bump can be distinctly felt with each and every keypress.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Gazzew U4T offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a sharper and snappier sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo with its clacky and marbly characteristics would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a deeper and richer sound, accompanied by a sharp tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4T with its bassy 'thock' sound profile would be more satisfying. Both switches offer unique subjective qualities that can enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preference and the desired auditory and tactile satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with a crisp, light switch-like tactility and a marbley sound profile, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo would be a great choice for you. The Baby Kangaroo offers a snappy and bouncy feel, making every keystroke feel responsive and lively. It produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, which can be sharp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, the Gazzew U4T would be the way to go. The U4T provides an assertive tactile feedback and a bassy thock sound profile, delivering auditory and tactile satisfaction with each keypress. Although it offers a sharp feel, it lacks the bouncy and polished attributes found in the Baby Kangaroo. Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and Gazzew U4T depends on your preference for sound, feel, and weight.
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