Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Jade offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is known for its tactile feedback, providing users with a satisfying click and a bouncy feel. On the other hand, the WS Jade offers a smooth linear experience coupled with a metallic and resonant sound profile. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) provides a crisp, light tactility and a marbley sound, the WS Jade offers a creamy typing experience with a bright metallic tone. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, making it important to delve deeper to determine the best fit for an individual's typing style and preferences. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Jade feature unique and specialized housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when compared to the WS Jade's POM top housing. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the WS Jade produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a different tactile sensation to users.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both switches again showcase their individual characteristics. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the WS Jade's POM bottom housing contributes to its unique sound profile, offering a deeper and more muted tone that enhances the typing experience. Despite their differences, both materials excel in providing a satisfying sound and feel to users.
When considering the impact of housing materials on overall switch performance, it is evident that the combination of top and bottom housing plays a crucial role. The qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch, influencing both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound generated when releasing a key. While the polycarbonate and POM housings offer their own strengths in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and WS Jade demonstrate how different housing materials can enhance the overall typing experience for users seeking a specific sound and feel in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) requires 59 grams to actuate and 67 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the WS Jade only needs 50 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, placing it in the medium range. Choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference - those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the WS Jade, while others seeking a more substantial push feel may opt for the Baby Kangaroo (V2). Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience, but users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces due to their comparable weights.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the WS Jade has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Baby Kangaroo. Gamers who prefer a faster response time may lean towards the Baby Kangaroo with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke may prefer the WS Jade with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer a balance of performance and feel, providing users with options to suit their individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30 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, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch are described as having a clacky and marbly sound profile. This means that they both produce a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed, with resonant and high-pitched qualities. The sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is described as snappy, bouncy, and polished, providing a responsive and lively typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Jade linear switch is described as silky and creamy, offering an exceptionally smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches provide a unique tactile feedback to the user.
Overall, while the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch may offer a slightly different sound and feel compared to the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, either switch could be a great choice for newcomers looking to explore different mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider the characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light tactility with a marbley sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a typing experience that is uniquely creamy and smooth, with a bright metallic and resonant sound profile, the WS Jade might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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