Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a multitude of options available, each with their own unique features and characteristics. Two switches that stand out among the rest are the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Everglide Oreo, both of which are tactile switches. The Baby Kangaroo is renowned for its crisp, light switch-like tactility, accompanied by a distinctive marbley sound profile. On the other hand, the Oreo offers a delightful treat for your fingertips with a responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. These switches strike a perfect balance between satisfying keystrokes and a comfortable typing experience, all while emitting a subtle and mellow sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for you.
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
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Everglide Oreo both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting in their keyboards. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics when using either of these switches. However, it's important to note that the Baby Kangaroo utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Oreo features a polycarbonate bottom housing.
The use of nylon in the Baby Kangaroo's bottom housing brings a different element to its overall sound profile. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. This can be a desirable characteristic for those seeking a more muted typing sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Everglide Oreo aligns with the overall sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile that is associated with polycarbonate. This harder plastic material contributes to a clear and resonant sound when bottoming out the keys.
In terms of physical feel, the bottom housing of a switch has a more significant impact. When pressing down on the Baby Kangaroo, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys. On the other hand, the top housing, whether polycarbonate or not, will primarily affect the sound when releasing a key. While both switches have different materials for their bottom housings, the impact of these materials on the typing experience may not be as noticeable compared to the differences in sound characteristics. Overall, users can expect distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences from the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Everglide Oreo due to their different housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. The Baby Kangaroo has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Oreo has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light category.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Oreo switch would be ideal as its actuation force allows for a smoother keystroke without requiring much effort. This lighter actuation force is advantageous for prolonged typing or intense gaming sessions, providing a comfortable experience for longer periods. On the other hand, if a more substantial and solid typing feel is desired, the Baby Kangaroo switch with its heavier actuation force would be a suitable choice. This heavier force gives typists a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying and substantial typing experience.
Of course, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference. Those who enjoy a lighter actuation force may find the Oreo more suitable, while individuals who prefer a heavier force will likely lean towards the Baby Kangaroo. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer a distinct tactile feedback, ensuring a responsive typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Everglide Oreo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Oreo switch has a slightly longer distance compared to the Baby Kangaroo switch. The Oreo switch falls within the more traditional range of 4.0 mm, while the Baby Kangaroo switch offers a slightly shorter distance of 3.4 mm.
For individuals who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo switch may be a better choice. This shorter distance allows for faster response times, which is often beneficial in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Oreo switch may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke.
Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired typing experience. If responsiveness is a top priority, the Baby Kangaroo switch with its shorter travel distance may be the better option. However, if a deeper and more satisfying keystroke is preferred, the Oreo switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be the preferred choice.
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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 switch offers a unique and enjoyable experience. It is described as clacky, which means it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This gives a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile to your typing. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo switch is also described as marbly, which means it has a resonant, high-pitched, and clean sound. It can be compared to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo switch has a more subtle and mellow sound profile. It is simply described as chirpy, which indicates that it has a little squeak to it. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a sharper, brighter, and more resonant sound, the Baby Kangaroo is the way to go. However, if you prefer a switch with a more subtle and mellow sound, the Oreo will provide that experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo switch offers a snappy and bouncy typing experience. The switch is described as snappy, which means it is super responsive and gives a lively feel to your keystrokes. This is likely due to the longer or dual-staged springs in the switch, which enhances the typing experience and makes it feel more alive. The Baby Kangaroo switch is also described as bouncy, which means it provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. When you press the keys, you will feel a rebound or a "bounce back" effect. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo switch is described as polished, indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo switch is described as accented, which means it provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It does not fall into the category of being hypersensitive or scratchy. The Oreo switch may also have a stepped feel, meaning it has a mild tactile bump with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a snappy, bouncy, and polished feel, the Baby Kangaroo switch is a great option. However, if you prefer a switch with a more medium tactile feel and a stepped sensation, the Oreo switch would be a better fit.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and Everglide Oreo switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Kangaroo switch provides a clacky and marbly sound profile, which is sharp, bright, resonant, and high-pitched. It also offers a snappy and bouncy typing experience with a polished finish. On the other hand, the Oreo switch has a chirpy sound profile, which is subtle and mellow. It offers an accented and stepped feel, providing a medium tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Both switches have their unique characteristics and can cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a switch with a sharper and brighter sound profile, as well as a snappy and bouncy feel, the Baby Kangaroo is a great choice. If you prefer a switch with a more subtle sound profile and a medium tactile feel with a stepped sensation, the Oreo switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, consider a few key factors. Firstly, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, the Oreo would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel, the Baby Kangaroo with a bottom out force of 67 grams would be more suitable.
Additionally, if you prioritize a crisp and light switch-like tactility with a marbley sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo is the switch for you. Its high-pitched and resonant sound, coupled with a snappy and bouncy feel, offers an immersive auditory experience and a typing sensation that feels more alive.
However, if you prefer a delectable treat for your fingertips with a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a delightfully cushioned sensation when bottoming out, the Everglide Oreo switch is the way to go. The Oreo provides a medium light tactility that strikes the perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and a comfortable typing experience. Furthermore, it offers a subtle, mellow sound profile that is distinctively chirpy.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the Everglide Oreo switches depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Whether you prefer a heavier switch with a marbley sound and a snappy feel, or a medium-light switch with a chirpy sound and a cushioned sensation, both options deliver a unique typing experience. Consider these factors and select the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences.
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