Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Gazzew U4Tx, are both tactile switches that offer unique features for different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo is known for its crisp, light switch-like tactility and marbly sound profile, giving a satisfying and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx combines the best of both worlds, offering a deeper, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. Each press on the U4Tx provides a sharp, satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. While these generalities may help you decide on your preference, let's delve deeper into the specifics to help you make the best switch choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in their housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The Baby Kangaroo features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for those who want to utilize RGB lighting. In comparison, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend produces a rich and deep sound due to its softness. It provides a different type of auditory experience, with a focus on delivering a satisfying and rounded sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Baby Kangaroo utilizes a nylon housing, which offers a classic switch sound. Typing on switches with nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx opts for a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, also known as "boba plastic." This material shares similarities with the top housing blend, providing a rich and deep sound due to its softness. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, and both these housing materials contribute to delivering an enjoyable typing experience.
While the Baby Kangaroo and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in their choice of housing materials, they also share some similarities. The Gateron Baby Kangaroo's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and clear sound, while the Gazzew U4Tx's proprietary blend top housing produces a rich and deep sound. While the materials may differ, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying auditory experience. Similarly, the Baby Kangaroo's nylon bottom housing and the U4Tx's proprietary blend bottom housing both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. Although the specific materials may vary, both switches emphasize the importance of the bottom housing in creating the desired sound when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, we can see that their weights differ slightly. The actuation force of the Baby Kangaroo is 59 grams, while the actuation force of the U4Tx is unknown. However, both switches share a similar medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Baby Kangaroo having a force of 67 grams and the U4Tx having a force of 65 grams.
Considering weight is important for various reasons. Those who prefer a lighter switch may enjoy the Baby Kangaroo, as it provides a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the U4Tx, as it offers a slightly heavier force, resulting in a more substantial typing experience.
Although we do not have the exact actuation force of the U4Tx, we can assume that it will provide similar results to the Baby Kangaroo in terms of actuation, as both switches fall into the medium-heavy category for their bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Baby Kangaroo being lighter and the U4Tx being slightly heavier.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it becomes evident that there is a slight difference between the two. The Baby Kangaroo has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the U4Tx has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the variance is minimal, it can still be influential depending on individual preferences.
In terms of practicality, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances when compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. This makes them suitable for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, such as gamers who require faster response times. However, it is important to note that while these switches share similar characteristics in terms of travel distance, they may still offer slightly different typing experiences due to other factors like actuation force and tactile feedback.
For individuals seeking a more subtle and gentle keypress, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo with its shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm may be the better option. This switch provides a quick actuation without feeling too abrupt or shallow. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx with its slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. It is recommended to try out both options, if possible, to determine which travel distance provides 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 Gazzew U4Tx 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 tactile switch offers a clacky sound with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. It also has a marbly sound profile that is resonant, high-pitched, and clean. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a cleaner, refined sound profile. It offers a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. While the Baby Kangaroo has a more high-pitched and resonant sound, the U4Tx offers a bassy and muted sound. Both switches have their unique sound characteristics, and the choice between them would depend on personal preference and the other components used in the keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo switch provides a snappy and bouncy experience. It has a super responsive nature with a lively feel due to longer or dual-staged springs. The keys have an elastic feedback sensation, offering rebound when pressed. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch offers a sharp tactile experience. It has a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The U4Tx focuses more on the intensity of the feedback rather than the bounce and smoothness of the typing experience.
Considering all the information available, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo provides a clacky and marbly sound profile with a snappy, bouncy, and polished feel. On the other hand, the U4Tx offers a cleaner, refined sound with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. The U4Tx also provides a sharp tactile feedback. While both switches have their unique qualities, it is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps when making a decision. If you are looking for a similar sound or feel, it is recommended to choose a switch with comparable qualities based on the available information.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Gazzew U4Tx would be suitable options. However, the main differentiating factors come down to sound and feel.
The Baby Kangaroo is best known for its crisp, light switch-like tactility and a marbley sound profile. If you enjoy a clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant sound while typing, the Baby Kangaroo would be a great choice for you. Additionally, the switch offers a snappy and bouncy feel, providing a responsive and lively typing experience.
On the other hand, the U4Tx is designed for a cleaner, refined sound profile. With this switch, you'll experience a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, coupled with a whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. The U4Tx also offers a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, giving you a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactily enjoyable.
If you prefer a bassy and muted sound profile, the U4Tx would be the better option for you. As for the feel, the U4Tx provides a sharp and intense tactile bump, ensuring that you can distinctly feel the feedback with each keypress.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Gazzew U4Tx comes down to personal preference. Consider what sound and feel you enjoy the most while typing and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences. With either option, you can expect a high-quality tactile experience for your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
