Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo switch is praised for its tactile feedback, providing a crisp and light tactility along with a distinctive marbley sound profile. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its smooth and creamy linear action, achieved through the innovative use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. While the Baby Kangaroo is described as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'High-pitched', 'Resonant', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished', the Vanilla Ice Cream is characterized as 'Buttery', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', and 'Resonant'. Each switch has its own merits, offering a unique typing experience to suit different 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
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, we see contrasting differences in their top housings. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The Vanilla Ice Cream, on the other hand, uses a proprietary KTT blend that offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both materials aim to enhance sound quality, the polycarbonate of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the KTT blend of the Vanilla Ice Cream leans towards a more distinct clacking sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound with its softer plastic composition. On the contrary, the Vanilla Ice Cream incorporates a POK bottom housing that prioritizes smoothness, clackiness, and durability. The nylon bottom housing of the Baby Kangaroo (V2) absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile, whereas the POK material of the Vanilla Ice Cream boasts exceptional strength, wear resistance, and shock resistance. These differences highlight the diverse priorities in sound quality and durability between the two housing materials.
In terms of overall switch performance, the qualities of the top and bottom housings play a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is felt during bottom-out motions, influencing the overall sound and feel when typing. The top housing, on the other hand, has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Vanilla Ice Cream may have contrasting housing materials, their distinct qualities ultimately contribute to providing a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Vanilla Ice Cream is the lighter option while the Baby Kangaroo is heavier. The actuation force of the Baby Kangaroo is 59 grams, heavier than the Vanilla Ice Cream's 43 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Baby Kangaroo is 67 grams, heavier than the Vanilla Ice Cream's 48 grams. This means that users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Vanilla Ice Cream, which requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Baby Kangaroo, which offers a heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream switch. The difference of 0.1 mm may not be significant to most users, but for those who prefer a slightly shallower keypress, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly deeper keypress, you may lean towards the Vanilla Ice Cream switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, catering to users who prioritize quicker response times. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the feel you are most comfortable with.
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 Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer high-pitched and resonant profiles. The Baby Kangaroo switch has a unique marbly sound that can be likened to tapping on marble, while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch delivers a clacky sound that is sharp and distinct. Depending on your preference for sound, both switches provide an immersive auditory experience that sets them apart from other switches on the market.
In terms of feel, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) switch offers a snappy and bouncy typing experience, giving users a responsive and lively feel when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch provides a buttery and creamy sensation, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience reminiscent of its namesake dessert. Whether you prefer a polished and refined typing experience or a seamless and effortless one, both switches cater to different tactile preferences for a comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch have their own unique sound and feel characteristics that appeal to different preferences. While the Baby Kangaroo switch offers a marbly and snappy sound with a bouncy feel, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch provides a clacky sound with a buttery and creamy sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but rest assured that both switches deliver quality performance that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a crisp, light tactile bump and a marbly sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a light linear switch with a remarkably smooth and creamy feel, along with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, the Vanilla Ice Cream could be the ideal option. Consider how the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel align with your preferences to make the best decision for your typing experience. Happy typing!
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