Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. KTT Cabbage Tofu

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Cabbage Tofu, both of which are linear switches. The Baby Raccoon is best known for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp type feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. The result is a switch that can be described as marbly, offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu switch stands out for its improved tactility and responsiveness, achieved through its lengthened 22mm spring. This allows for a swift rebound after actuation, enabling a faster transition between keystrokes. Additionally, the Cabbage Tofu switch produces a sound profile reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and offer a range of qualities such as resonance, clackiness, creaminess, high-pitched sounds, and a polished feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) Linear

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$5.50 per 10

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Cabbage Tofu both feature polycarbonate top housings, which give them a similar quality in terms of sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches have a translucent design, making them especially suitable for RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a vibrant and distinctive sound, both the Baby Raccoon and the Cabbage Tofu with their polycarbonate top housings would be a great choice.

When it comes to the bottom housing material, the Baby Raccoon utilizes a nylon composition, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu also features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottoms offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Baby Raccoon and the Cabbage Tofu will provide a more immersive and satisfying typing experience with their nylon bottom housings.

Considering the impact of each housing material, the Baby Raccoon and the Cabbage Tofu demonstrate how the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials can influence the overall switch experience. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will be prominent, affecting the sound and feel upon bottoming out. In contrast, the sound when letting go of a key will be more influenced by the characteristics of the polycarbonate top housing. This distinction highlights the importance of selecting the right switch housing materials based on personal preferences and desired typing experience. Whether you prioritize the sharp, crisp sound of the top housing or the deeper, fuller sound of the bottom housing, both the Baby Raccoon and the Cabbage Tofu offer unique options for different preferences.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch, it is important to consider their weight. The Baby Raccoon has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, both of which fall into the medium range. On the other hand, the Cabbage Tofu has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, which can be categorized as medium-light.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cabbage Tofu switch would be more suitable, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces provide a smoother and easier keystroke. This can be particularly advantageous for individuals who spend extended periods typing, such as those who bring their keyboard to work or engage in long gaming sessions.

However, for those who prefer a stronger and more substantial typing feel, the Baby Raccoon switch with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces would be a better choice. The additional force required to trigger a keystroke and reach full bottoming-out point can provide a satisfying tactile feedback, allowing for a more deliberate and controlled typing experience.

Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on individual preferences and typing style. While the Cabbage Tofu offers a lighter and smoother experience, the Baby Raccoon provides a more robust and weightier feel. Both switches offer their own advantages, and users can select the one that aligns with their specific needs and preferences for typing or gaming.

Travel distance

The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum when compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers, in particular, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Baby Raccoon may be the better option for you. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a more substantial keypress. In this case, the Cabbage Tofu's slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Overall, both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to traditional switches and can provide similar results in terms of responsiveness, with the main difference lying in individual preference for a more concise or hearty keypress experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is best known for its bright and resonant sound signature, offering a clean and sharp sound profile. It can be described as "marbly," which means it has a resonant, high-pitched, and clean sound, similar to tapping on a solid piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch provides a clacky sound when pressed, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive in nature. This sound profile is reminiscent of Mahjong tiles colliding. Both switches have a high-pitched sound, resulting in a crisp and sharp auditory experience.

In terms of feel, both switches share similar descriptions. They are both referred to as "creamy" switches, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This sensation is achieved by either applying lubricant at the factory or specific materials used. Typing on these switches will give you a silky feel, as if your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys with each keystroke. Additionally, both switches are described as "polished," indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, contributing to an overall sleek typing experience. The Cabbage Tofu switch is also described as "silky," indicating an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Furthermore, it is mentioned that the Cabbage Tofu switch provides a snappy feel, likely due to longer or dual-staged springs, enhancing the responsiveness and liveliness of the typing experience.

Based on the available information, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon provides a resonant and marbly sound profile, while the Cabbage Tofu offers a clacky sound reminiscent of Mahjong tiles. Both switches offer a creamy and polished feel, with the Cabbage Tofu also providing a silky and snappy typing experience. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, they can choose between the bright and resonant qualities of the Baby Raccoon or the snappy and percussive qualities of the Cabbage Tofu. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and enjoy a bright, high-pitched sound profile, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Baby Raccoon switches are characterized by their refreshing crisp type feel and marbly sound, which can be likened to the sound of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or two billiard balls colliding. Additionally, these switches offer a creamy and bouncy typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation with a spring-like feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and desire improved tactility and responsiveness, the KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a clacky high-pitched sound and offer a creamy and polished typing experience, delivering a smooth and refined sensation with reduced friction and sleek key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and KTT Cabbage Tofu linear switches boils down to your personal preference for sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) Linear

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

KTT Cabbage Tofu Linear

$3.25

$2.75 per 10

Learn more