Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Jerrzi Seashell are two popular linear options to consider. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its elongated switch stems. Described as 'marbley', these switches provide a unique and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell impresses with its stunning purple color and a balance of aesthetic appeal and functionality. Known for being light, clacky, and easy to press, the Seashell switches offer a comfortable and delightful typing experience, making them a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Jerrzi Seashell both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housings of these switches results in a more clear and resonant sound due to the stiffer nature of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing for a visually appealing effect.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches opt for nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to polycarbonate. This choice of material for the bottom housing adds to the tactile experience of pressing down on the switches, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys.
Overall, while both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Jerrzi Seashell share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the specific design and construction of these switches may lead to slight variations in sound profiles and tactile feedback. However, the combination of these materials in different parts of the switches ensures a well-rounded typing experience with a mix of sharpness and depth in sound.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Baby Raccoon is 63 grams, while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Baby Raccoon switch provides a more consistent feel throughout the keystroke with a medium weight, whereas the Seashell switch may feel lighter during actuation due to the lower force required. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the actuation force and bottom out force, catering to individuals who prefer either a lighter or heavier keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has a slightly longer travel distance, making it the longer option between the two. However, the Seashell offers a slightly shorter travel distance, providing a more immediate key press feeling. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Seashell has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Seashell for $2.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a resonant and marbly experience with a higher-pitched and clean profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Seashell switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) leans more towards a resonant and sharp sound, the Seashell switch provides a snappy and percussive sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, offering a smooth, buttery typing experience with spring-like feedback and a refined finish for reduced friction. In contrast, the Seashell is characterized by a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring little exertion from fingers and offering gentle resistance for effortless and low-impact typing sessions. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) provides a more varied tactile experience, the Seashell switch focuses on a light and comfortable typing sensation.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon (V2) provides a resonant and marbly sound with a creamy and bouncy feel, emphasizing smoothness and feedback. On the other hand, the Seashell switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound along with a feathery and easy-to-press feel, prioritizing lightness and comfort. Depending on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches can deliver an enjoyable typing experience, catering to a range of user preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch or the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your preferences in typing experience. If you enjoy a switch with a medium bottom out force and a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile that provides a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing feel, then the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be a solid choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, coupled with a feathery, easy-to-press, and polished typing feel, then the Jerrzi Seashell switch could be the ideal option for your keyboard setup. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what type of tactile and auditory experience you are seeking in your mechanical keyboard switches.
Mentioned in this article
