Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are pleased to introduce two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct experiences for users. The Gateron Baby Kangaroo, a tactile switch, offers a crisp and light switch-like tactility. Along with a unique marbley sound profile, this switch is known for its clacky, marbly, high-pitched, resonant, snappy, bouncy, and polished characteristics. On the other hand, the KTT Rose, a linear switch, boasts not only its stunning aesthetics but also a typing experience like no other. Thanks to the use of progressive springs, the Rose switch provides a substantial yet not heavy feel. Users often describe the sound of typing on these switches as bassy raindrops. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Rose switch offers a different appeal. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you. Whether you prefer a tactile and clacky switch with a marbley sound or a linear switch with a unique typing experience, both switches have their own merits to suit your keyboard preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the KTT Rose switches have several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences when using either the Baby Kangaroo or the Rose switches.
However, there is a difference in the bottom housing materials of these switches. The Baby Kangaroo features a nylon bottom housing, while the Rose also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softness, which allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the sound produced when bottoming out keys on the Baby Kangaroo and the Rose switches will have a duller and rounder quality.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housing materials of a switch contribute differently to the overall sound and feel when using the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. With this understanding, users can appreciate how the qualities of the nylon bottom housing enhance the typing experience, while the polycarbonate top housing adds to the overall sound profile of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and the KTT Rose switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are both similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the Baby Kangaroo requires 59 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Rose's actuation force is unknown. This means that if a lighter actuation force is desired, the Baby Kangaroo would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Baby Kangaroo is 67 grams, slightly heavier than the Rose's 63.5 grams. This indicates that the Rose switch provides a slightly lighter typing experience when fully pressed down.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Baby Kangaroo, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This makes it suitable for keyboards used for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards switches with heavier forces. In this case, the medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces of both the Baby Kangaroo and the Rose switches provide a similar result, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch have different travel distances. The Baby Kangaroo has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Rose has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Rose, therefore, has a longer travel distance compared to the Baby Kangaroo. In terms of preferences, the shorter travel distance of the Baby Kangaroo may be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial depth in their key presses may find the longer travel distance of the Rose to be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired feel when typing or gaming.
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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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 unique combination of qualities. It has a clacky sound, which is sharp and snappy, giving it a crisp and bright auditory profile. Additionally, it has a marbly sound, reminiscent of tapping on a solid piece of marble or the collision of billiard balls. This creates a resonant and high-pitched sound experience that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch provides a different sound profile. It is described as low-pitched, which means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is also characterized as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch offers a snappy and bouncy typing experience. The switch is designed with longer or dual-staged springs, making it super responsive and giving it a lively feel. It provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a rebound effect when pressed. Additionally, it is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This is achieved through the materials used and/or factory lubing, which reduces friction and enables smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a milder typing experience. It falls into the category of mild mechanical keyboard switches, providing a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Rose switch also shares the polished characteristic, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking into consideration all the available information, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch stands out for its crisp, light switch-like tactility and marbly sound profile. It offers a snappy and bouncy typing experience with a polished finish, delivering a sleek and refined feel. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a unique typing experience with its use of progressive springs, providing a uniquely substantial feel without being heavy. It produces a low-pitched sound profile and also shares the polished characteristic for smooth key travel. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are seeking a similar sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo's high-pitched and resonant features can provide similar results to the Rose's low-pitched tone. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with crisp, light tactility and a marbly sound profile, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a snappy and bouncy feel, providing a responsive and lively typing experience. They also produce a clacky and high-pitched sound, which can be ideal if you prefer sharp and percussive sound profiles. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a more bassy and mellow sound, along with a mild and polished feel, then the KTT Rose linear switch would be a better fit for you. The progressive springs in the Rose switches offer a unique typing experience that is substantial yet not heavy. Additionally, the low-pitched sound of the Rose switches provides a more relaxed auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and KTT Rose switches will depend on your preference for sound and feel, so consider which qualities align more with your personal typing preferences.
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