Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron Mountain Top mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, attributed to its longer switch stems and described as "marbley." On the other hand, the Mountain Top switches are engineered for discretion in office environments, providing a quiet yet responsive typing experience. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) is characterized by a more expressive and invigorating typing experience, the Mountain Top switch offers a subtle and professional feel. 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
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and Mountain Top switches both feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. In contrast, the Baby Raccoon (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the Mountain Top's nylon top housing.
While the nylon bottom housings of the Baby Raccoon (V2) and Mountain Top switches share similar qualities in creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, the top housings differ significantly in their impact on sound and feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Raccoon (V2) contributes to a sharper and crisper sound when releasing a key, especially beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Mountain Top creates a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. These differences in top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles for each switch.
In summary, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and Mountain Top switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate top housing, while the Mountain Top provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings for a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing. Whether you prefer a crisper sound or a rounder sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is clear that the Mountain Top is the lighter option. The Baby Raccoon has a medium actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Mountain Top features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a preferred choice for those who prefer a softer touch. The actuation force determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the amount of force needed to press the key all the way down. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the weight preference of the user, with the Baby Raccoon being more suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier touch and the Mountain Top for those who enjoy a lighter feel.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, we find that the Baby Raccoon has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mountain Top has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Baby Raccoon offering a bit more depth compared to the Mountain Top. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) comes in at $5.50, whereas the Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00.
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 Raccoon (V2) linear switch is known for its resonant, marbly, and high-pitched characteristics, providing a bright and immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes, especially in office environments where discretion is valued. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Baby Raccoon (V2) being more vibrant and engaging, while the Mountain Top provides a quieter and more subtle typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, offering a smooth, spring-like, and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is characterized by its bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle attributes, providing a gentle, responsive, and light typing feel. While both switches offer different tactile experiences, they both aim to enhance typing comfort and efficiency in their respective ways, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch each offer unique sound and feel characteristics that can cater to different preferences and needs. The Baby Raccoon (V2) provides a vibrant and resonant typing experience with a bright sound signature and crisp feel, while the Mountain Top offers a more neutral and discreet typing experience, ideal for office settings. Regardless of the choice between the two switches, users can expect a high-quality typing experience that suits their individual preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switches, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a bright, resonant, and marbly sound signature with a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing feel, then the Baby Raccoon (V2) is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and seek a quiet, neutral sound profile with a bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle typing feel tailored for office settings, then the Mountain Top linear switch would be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your mechanical keyboard. Choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and enhances your overall typing experience.
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