Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are thrilled to introduce two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, the Baby Kangaroo and the Speed Silver. If you are a fan of tactile switches, the Baby Kangaroo is perfect for you. It offers a crisp and light switch-like tactility, creating a delightful typing experience. Additionally, its unique marbley sound profile adds a touch of elegance to your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you seek a fast and precise typing experience, the Speed Silver is the switch to consider. With its reduced travel distance, these linear switches allow for effortless actuation, making it an ideal choice for those who value speed. Both switches offer a polished sound profile, guaranteeing a pleasant auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect 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
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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 TTC Speed Silver both feature polycarbonate top housing. This material provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a clear housing and want a distinct sound profile, both the Baby Kangaroo and the Speed Silver would deliver similar results.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Baby Kangaroo and the Speed Silver incorporate nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches would provide a more immersive typing experience due to the characteristics of the nylon bottom housing material.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the Baby Kangaroo and the Speed Silver, the impact of each housing material is notable in different aspects of the switch. The bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, highlighting the qualities of the nylon material. Conversely, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced and distinctive typing experience with both the Baby Kangaroo and the Speed Silver switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are notable differences. The Baby Kangaroo has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Speed Silver's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams, whereas the Speed Silver has a lower bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Baby Kangaroo provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Speed Silver offers a lighter touch for smoother and faster keystrokes. Those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming could opt for the Speed Silver, while individuals seeking a more robust and tactile typing experience might lean towards the Baby Kangaroo. However, it is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall feel and responsiveness.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 3.4 mm. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch offers a unique and noteworthy experience. It is described as "clacky," producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound profile can be characterized as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo switch has a "marbly" sound, resonant and high-pitched, reminiscent of tapping on a solid piece of marble or the collision of billiard balls. This switch provides an immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile.
On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a more neutral sound profile. It does not have any specific descriptors mentioned for its sound, suggesting a moderate and versatile sound profile. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a switch that does not have a rich or bassy sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch offers a range of characteristics. It is described as "snappy," indicating high responsiveness, possibly due to longer or dual-staged springs. This gives the typing experience a more lively feel. Additionally, the Baby Kangaroo switch has a "bouncy" sensation, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback when pressed, which offers a sense of rebound. Furthermore, this switch is described as "polished," indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, delivering a sleek typing experience.
The TTC Speed Silver linear switch provides a more mild typing experience. It is described as "mild," offering a gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This switch is suitable for a wide range of users due to its approachable qualities that fall within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Speed Silver switch is also described as "polished," indicating a smooth and refined finish that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
To conclude, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch stands out for its unique sound profile that is clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and resonant. It offers a snappy and bouncy feel with a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offers a neutral sound profile and a mild feel, also with a polished finish. While the two switches differ in several aspects, they both provide qualities that make for a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer the distinct sound and pronounced tactile feedback of the Baby Kangaroo or the neutrality and mildness of the Speed Silver, both switches offer options that cater to various preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style.
If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and want a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a marbley sound profile, then the Baby Kangaroo would be a great choice for you. The clacky and marbly sound profile, along with the high-pitched and resonant characteristics, provide a satisfying auditory experience. Additionally, the snappy, bouncy, and polished feel of these switches make typing feel more alive and polished.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver would be more suitable. With a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, these switches offer a safe middle-ground option. The mild and polished feel provides a gentle typing experience, while the reduced travel distance allows for quick and effortless actuation.
In the end, both switches have their own unique qualities and advantages. Consider your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, as well as the specific typing experience you desire. Ultimately, choosing between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo and TTC Speed Silver will ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience tailored to your needs.
Mentioned in this article
