Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are thrilled to introduce two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Outemu Yellow Silver. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The Baby Kangaroo switch provides a delightful tactile experience, delivering a satisfying feedback with a crisp, light switch-like tactility. Furthermore, it produces a distinct marbley sound profile, creating an immersive typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch from Outemu boasts a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile. This makes it particularly advantageous for gamers and typists who prefer a swift and responsive typing experience. While these generalities provide a good starting point, let's now dive deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you determine the ideal choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Outemu Yellow Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which means they will have similar sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Both switches also feature clear housings, which is aesthetically pleasing and ideal for RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a polycarbonate top housing and plan to use RGB lighting, either the Baby Kangaroo or the Yellow Silver would be a good choice.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Baby Kangaroo utilizes a nylon material while the Yellow Silver also has a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches that use nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, both the Baby Kangaroo and the Yellow Silver will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the sound produced.
Overall, the main difference between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Outemu Yellow Silver lies in their top housings, as they both use polycarbonate for their bottom housings. The Baby Kangaroo's top housing is not described in the given information, while the Yellow Silver's top housing is also made of polycarbonate. Therefore, if you are specifically interested in the sound produced when letting go of a key, the Yellow Silver may have a slight advantage due to its polycarbonate top housing. However, if you are primarily focused on the typing experience, both switches will offer similar results with their nylon bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Baby Kangaroo has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Yellow Silver's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo has a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Yellow Silver has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the Baby Kangaroo switch heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it can greatly impact typing experience and duration. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Yellow Silver switch, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces make it easier to type on for extended periods of time. This lighter weight is particularly suitable for individuals who use the keyboard frequently at work or engage in long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, some individuals prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For those seeking a heavier switch, the Baby Kangaroo would be a suitable choice. Its higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a more robust keystroke, giving a satisfying tactile feedback while typing.
While the actuation and bottom out forces differ between these two switches, it is important to note that the actuation force for both falls within the medium range. Therefore, individuals seeking similar results in terms of typing experience may find that both switches provide a satisfactory level of tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the Baby Kangaroo and Yellow Silver switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Baby Kangaroo has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Yellow Silver switch. The difference may not seem significant, but for those who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo may be preferred. Gamers, in particular, often opt for switches with shorter travel distances to enhance their gaming experience. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel and enjoy a deeper key press may find the longer travel distance of the Yellow Silver switch more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision of which switch to choose depends on personal preferences and the desired level of responsiveness and depth.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch is best known for its crisp, light switch-like tactility, which provides a satisfying feedback when typing or gaming. It is also described as having a marbley sound profile, producing a resonant, high-pitched, and clean sound. As a result, the Baby Kangaroo switch offers both a tactile and auditory experience that is unique and enjoyable.
On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is favored by gamers and typists for its light actuation force and speediness. While there is no specific description of its sound profile, the Yellow Silver switch is stated to have a neutral sound profile, suggesting a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes.
When comparing the sound of the two switches, the Baby Kangaroo switch is clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant. In contrast, the Yellow Silver switch has a neutral sound profile. Therefore, the Baby Kangaroo switch provides a more distinct and vibrant auditory experience compared to the Yellow Silver switch.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo switch is described as snappy, bouncy, and polished. Its snappy and bouncy nature makes it highly responsive and provides a spring-like feedback sensation. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch ensures smooth and refined key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific description of the feel of the Yellow Silver switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch stands out for its crisp tactility, marbly sound profile, and snappy and bouncy feel. It offers a unique and enjoyable typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch provides a neutral sound profile and its feel remains unknown. Therefore, if one desires a switch with a satisfying tactility and distinctive sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo would be a great choice. However, if one prefers a more neutral sound and the feel is not a crucial factor, the Yellow Silver switch may be a suitable alternative.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a crisp, light switch-like tactility, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo is a great choice. These switches offer a marbly sound profile that is resonant, high-pitched, and clean. They provide a snappy and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver is a suitable option. These switches have a light actuation force, making them favorable for gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. With a moderate sound profile and a neutral feel, they are versatile and suitable for various use cases.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Outemu Yellow Silver depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a distinct sound and a snappy feel, the Baby Kangaroo is a great option. If you prefer a lighter switch with a neutral sound profile and a versatile feel, the Yellow Silver is worth considering.
In the end, it's important to try out different switches and find the one that suits your typing style and preferences the best. Experimentation is key in discovering the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for you.
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