Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. TTC Bluish White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Bluish White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the TTC Bluish White. These switches offer distinct experiences, making them suitable for different preferences. The Baby Raccoon stands out with its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. It delivers a unique linear sensation that can be described as "marbley." On the other hand, the Bluish White provides a tactile experience that satisfies users seeking a poppy typing feel. Its snappy sound profile adds to the overall enjoyment. Both switches offer enticing qualities, but which one is the best fit for you? Let's explore these switches in more detail beyond the generalities to help you make an informed decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon and the TTC Bluish White switches both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The use of polycarbonate also provides clarity and resonance to the sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality in their mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the implementation of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Thus, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences when using either the Baby Raccoon or the Bluish White switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Baby Raccoon and Bluish White switches utilize nylon. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a relatively softer plastic, nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Therefore, regardless of whether one chooses the Baby Raccoon or Bluish White, they can enjoy the satisfying sound produced by the nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the qualities attributed to the top and bottom housings will be divided between the two materials in switches that feature different housings. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact and bottom-out sound, will be more prominent. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction highlights the significance of the housing materials in creating specific typing sensations and sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch, it is evident that there are differences in their weight. The Baby Raccoon requires a 55-gram actuation force and a 63-gram bottom out force, placing it in the medium range. On the other hand, the Bluish White switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, with a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces would allow for easier keystrokes, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or intense gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This can provide users with a stronger push feel, giving them a satisfying and impactful typing experience.
Both switches offer advantages depending on individual preferences. If one favors a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Bluish White would be a great option. Meanwhile, those seeking a more substantial and forceful typing experience may find greater satisfaction with the Baby Raccoon. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference and the desired weight and feel of the switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch, we can see that the Baby Raccoon has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the 3.5 mm of the Bluish White. Both switches, however, fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. If responsiveness is a priority for you, the Baby Raccoon would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more satisfying depth. Therefore, if you prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the TTC Bluish White, with its slightly shorter travel distance, would be the better option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.18.
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) comes in at $5.50 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 Raccoon linear switch is best described as resonant, marbly, and high-pitched. Tapping on these switches will produce a clean and sharp sound, similar to the sound of two billiard balls colliding. The longer switch stems contribute to a bright sound signature and an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound profile, which means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Overall, the Baby Raccoon offers a more vibrant and high-pitched sound, while the Bluish White provides a deeper and bassier tone. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience. The switch is known to be smooth and buttery, providing a silky sensation when typing. It has a lively feel with rebound when pressed, giving a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The actuation force is moderate to firm, resulting in a snappy and reactive feel. Furthermore, the switch has a polished finish, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. It also provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The switch has a gentle resistance and a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel. The stepped design provides a more mild tactile feedback compared to switches with a bigger bump. Similar to the Baby Raccoon, the Bluish White has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities both in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon offers a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, providing a bright and sharp auditory experience. It also offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished feel, giving a smooth and buttery typing experience with lively feedback. On the other hand, the Bluish White provides a low-pitched sound profile, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It has a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a gentle resistance. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. If you prefer a brighter and more resonant sound with a crisp and creamy feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a deeper and bassier sound with a smooth and gentle typing feel, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force and a switch that offers a bright and crisp typing experience, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is a great choice. With its lengthened switch stems, these switches provide a distinctive "marbley" feel and a resonant, high-pitched sound profile. The Baby Raccoon switches are best described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished in terms of feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a tactile switch that provides a satisfyingly poppy typing experience, the TTC Bluish White switch is the way to go. These switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. The Bluish Whites offer a snappy sound profile and a more approachable feel. They are described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a gentle resistance.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch depends on your preferred bottom out force, sound signature, and typing feel. Consider your personal preferences and requirements to make an informed decision.
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