Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear keyboard switches, one can immediately notice the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Akashi stands out for its innovative design featuring a UPE stem and a unique POM top and nylon bottom housing combination, resulting in a resonant and satisfying typing experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its longer switch stems. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences - the Akashi is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'snappy', while the Baby Raccoon (V2) is characterized as 'marbly', 'resonant', and 'bouncy'. 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
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
20mm long spring
Housing materials
The comparison between the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) reveals some interesting differences. The Akashi utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Raccoon (V2), which produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Akashi results in a more unique sound profile, while the polycarbonate in the Baby Raccoon (V2) is known for its translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting. However, both switches use a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties that absorb more sound.
While the top and bottom housings of the Akashi and Baby Raccoon (V2) differ in material, they both provide unique sound profiles based on their respective housing materials. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a more pleasing and deeper sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound. In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The impact of each housing material is felt differently, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a unique and pleasing sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Despite their differences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials, showcasing the importance of material choice in switch design.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch is lighter compared to the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Akashi requires a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams. In contrast, the Baby Raccoon (V2) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Akashi provides a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use, while the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance while typing. Both switches have their respective strengths depending on personal preference, with lighter switches being better for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more satisfying tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch, we can see that the Akashi has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Baby Raccoon's 3.6 mm. While the difference may seem minimal, it can have an impact on the typing experience and feel of the switch. The Akashi's slightly longer travel distance may provide a bit more depth and feedback when pressed, while the Baby Raccoon's shorter travel distance could appeal to those looking for a quicker and more responsive keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
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 Bsun Akashi linear switch is best described as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound with a bright and percussive tone. On the other hand, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch offers a resonant and marbly sound, with a higher-pitched clean profile that immerses the user in a unique auditory experience. Both switches provide distinct sound qualities that can enhance typing enjoyment based on personal preferences, but the Akashi leans towards a crisper bottom-out sound, while the Baby Raccoon offers a more resonant sensation.
Moving on to feel, the Bsun Akashi switch is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, with easy-to-press keys that have a polished and silky feel. This results in a smooth and buttery sensation while typing, minimizing resistance and enhancing the overall keystroke. In comparison, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) switch also offers a creamy typing experience, along with a bouncy and invigorating feel that provides firm actuation force and reactive feedback, contributing to a lively and rebounding sensation. Both switches deliver a polished and smooth typing experience that can cater to different preferences, but the Baby Raccoon adds a level of bounce and invigorating feedback to the mix.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Akashi delivers a clacky sound and a creamy typing feel, the Baby Raccoon provides a resonant and marbly sound with a bouncy and invigorating typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience, both switches offer a range of qualities that can elevate the overall mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Akashi or the Baby Raccoon, you can expect a satisfying and precise typing feel that aligns with your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a unique tactile feedback experience with a hybrid housing design that produces a bright, crisp sound contrast, the Akashi may be the switch for you. However, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a bright, crisp typing feel with lengthened stems for a marbly sound signature, the Baby Raccoon (V2) could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to ensure a satisfying typing experience with your mechanical keyboard.
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