Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Akko Botany
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Akko Botany switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that often come up for enthusiasts are the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Akko Botany, both of which fall into the linear category. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out with its distinctive "marbley" feel, characterized by a bright sound signature and a refreshing typing experience, thanks in part to its longer switch stems that contribute to a polished and invigorating tactile feedback. In contrast, the Akko Botany delivers a lively and crisp typing experience with its clacky sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. Both switches offer a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences, whether you seek the luxuriant smoothness of the Baby Raccoon or the energetic response of the Botany. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon Pro
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
Stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Akko Botany, clear distinctions can be drawn between the top housings. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that further enhances the experience when RGB lighting is utilized, as the light can pass through the clear housing effectively. In contrast, the Akko Botany utilizes a nylon top housing, a material known for its softer characteristics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound and creates a rounder tone. Therefore, the top housings of these two switches not only provide different aesthetic qualities but also create notably different auditory experiences when typing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Akko Botany feature nylon materials. This shared use of nylon means that the bottom-out sound and feel upon pressing the keys will have a more uniform quality across both switches. Since nylon tends to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, both switches will elicit a similar depth and fullness when bottoming out. Thus, while the auditory profiles differ at the top of the switches due to their varying materials, users will likely experience a convergence in sound characteristics when engaging with the switches from below.
In summary, the comparison highlights how the distinct features of the top housings influence the sound profile differently, while the similarity of the nylon bottom housings creates a consistent experience during key presses across both switches. For enthusiasts looking to achieve a particular acoustic feel, this means that while they may enjoy unique sound profiles when typing, the bottom-out experience will resonate similarly, thanks to the shared nylon material. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Akko Botany can cater to specific tastes, making them appealing options within the mechanical switch market.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Akko Botany linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Akko Botany switch features a significantly lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Consequently, the Botany switch is the lighter option, making it ideal for users who appreciate reduced fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Baby Raccoon (V2) may provide a more tactile feel for those who prefer a substantial typing experience. Thus, while both switches serve different preferences, the Akko Botany is better suited for users seeking a softer touch, whereas the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) appeals to those who enjoy a firmer resistance.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Akko Botany linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. Since both switches feature the same travel distance, users can expect similar feedback and feel when pressing down on the keys. This uniformity in travel distance may result in comparable typing experiences, enabling users to switch between the two without a significant adjustment period. Thus, when considering travel distance, the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Botany offer the same performance, allowing for a consistent feel regardless of the switch choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Botany has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Botany for $3.11.
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 Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a resonant, high-pitched auditory experience that typists often find engaging. Its bright sound signature, described as marbly, provides a clean and sharp auditory feedback reminiscent of the sound produced when tapping on solid marble or the collision of billiard balls. This gives the Baby Raccoon a unique quality that can make the typing experience more lively and immersive. On the other hand, while the Akko Botany linear switch is recognized for producing a crisp and lively clacky sound straight out of the box, detailed subjective descriptions of its sound profile are limited. However, it's reasonable to speculate that the Botany switch may also be bright and engaging in sound, while likely differing in texture and resonance from the Baby Raccoon.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) shines with a creamy and polished typing experience, creating a smooth and buttery sensation as fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. The bouncy feedback adds to a lively typing sensation, offering a balance of responsiveness and comfort that invigorates each keystroke. The subjective qualities of the Botany's feel remain unspecified, making it difficult to draw definitive comparisons. However, because the Baby Raccoon is lauded for its smooth and refined action, if the Botany switch excels in its own right, users may still find a similarly enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and Akko Botany linear switches provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences, though the Baby Raccoon’s characteristics are better defined. The Baby Raccoon is notable for its resonant sound and creamy, polished feel, while the Botany’s offerings are primarily described in terms of crispness without additional detail. Choosing between them may ultimately depend on individual preferences, as users seeking a lively and engaging auditory experience may find satisfaction with either switch, though the Baby Raccoon may lead in defined qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Akko Botany linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you enjoy a medium actuation force and a typing experience that is characterized by a bright, resonant auditory profile combined with a marbley feel, then the Baby Raccoon (V2) will likely be your go-to switch. Its longer stem design enhances the typing experience with a creamy, bouncy response that many typists find invigorating and satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force paired with a lively clacky sound that is direct and crisp, the Akko Botany switch may be more suitable for you. This switch is ideal if you favor a more straightforward and energetic auditory experience without the additional richness of the Baby Raccoon's sound. In summary, choose the Baby Raccoon (V2) for a dynamic, immersive typing session with a touch of sophistication, while the Akko Botany more readily suits those who want an easily accessible and lively feel, perfect for rapid typing or gaming applications.
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