Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Kailh Box Mute Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Kailh Box Mute Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Kailh Box Mute Jade stand out as unique options. The Baby Raccoon offers a bright sound signature and a refreshing crisp typing feel. With slightly longer switch stems than typical switches, these linear switches provide a distinct and "marbley" experience. On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade is perfect for those who prefer a clicky switch with a more subdued sound profile. This switch offers a crunchy feel with a quieter, yet still unmistakably clicky sound signature. While these general characteristics can help you narrow down your choices, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
75g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
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
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Kailh Box Mute Jade both have polycarbonate top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the transparent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for similar sound characteristics and plan to utilize RGB lighting, both switches will provide comparable results.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Baby Raccoon uses nylon while the Box Mute Jade also utilizes nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches will provide this characteristic, making them suitable options for those seeking a switch with a more muffled and subdued sound.
When it comes to overall typing experience, the bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Pressing down on either the Baby Raccoon or the Box Mute Jade will allow you to experience the qualities of the nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the top housing material will affect the sound produced when you release a key. Therefore, while both switches offer similar sound profiles, the individual components of the switch housing will slightly vary the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch to the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Baby Raccoon has a relatively lighter actuation force of 55 grams, while the Box Mute Jade requires a heavier force of 75 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Baby Raccoon has a force of 63 grams, whereas the Box Mute Jade has a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams.
These variances in force can significantly impact the typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gateron Baby Raccoon would be an ideal choice. Its lower actuation force allows for faster and more effortless keystrokes, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions or intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who seek a more substantial typing experience might gravitate towards the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch. The greater actuation and bottom out force provide a tactile feedback and resistance that some users find satisfying and more comfortable for typing longer documents or engaging in precise gameplay activities.
Considering the weight is crucial as it ultimately determines the behavior and feel of the switch. Those seeking lighter switches for extended periods of typing or gaming would find the Baby Raccoon to be a suitable option. Meanwhile, individuals who prefer the satisfaction of a heavier push and a more substantial typing experience would benefit from the Box Mute Jade. In both cases, users can achieve desired results but with different levels of force and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it moves from the top to the bottom when pressed down. In the case of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch, both switches have a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches as they both provide a 3.6 mm travel distance.
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 Kailh Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50.
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
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is known for its resonant and marbly sound profile. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched and clean sound experience. The sound is sharp and crisp, similar to the sound of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the collision of billiard balls. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers a more subdued sound profile. While still clicky, the sound is quieter compared to other clicky switches. It has a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon switch offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience. These switches provide a smooth and buttery sensation, similar to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. They also offer a lively feel, giving a spring-like or elastic feedback when pressed. The Baby Raccoon switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive feel. Additionally, these switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch is described as accented and stiff. The tactile feedback provided by these switches is prominent but not overwhelming or subtle. They require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches, giving them a stiffer feel. Similar to the Baby Raccoon switch, the Box Mute Jade also has a polished finish, which results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon has a resonant and marbly sound profile, while the Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy and quieter clicky sound. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience, while the Box Mute Jade is more accented and stiff. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences. However, if you are looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, the Baby Raccoon and Box Mute Jade switches may not be the best matches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a bright sound signature and a crisp typing feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon is the perfect choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 63 grams, it offers a marbley experience that is both satisfying and immersive. The Baby Raccoon's resonant, marbly and high-pitched sound profile provides a clean and sharp auditory experience, making typing on these switches a delight.
On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a more subdued sound profile, the Kailh Box Mute Jade is the ideal option. With a heavy bottom out force of 82 grams, it provides a crunchy feel that replicates the satisfying sensation of stepping on piles of crispy autumn leaves. The Box Mute Jade offers a quieter clicky sound while still providing a slight bump for tactile feedback.
In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience. These switches are smooth and buttery, providing a silky sensation and effortless keystrokes. The bouncy nature of the keys adds a lively feel, giving you rebound with each press. Moreover, the refined finish of the Baby Raccoon ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Box Mute Jade delivers an accented, stiff, and polished typing experience. While not as tactile as some other switches, the Box Mute Jade provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The keys have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek and satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch boils down to personal preference. If you value a bright sound signature with a crisp typing feel and a medium bottom out force, the Baby Raccoon is the way to go. However, if you prefer the crunchy feel of a clicky switch with a more subdued sound profile and a heavier bottom out force, the Box Mute Jade is the better choice. Consider your sound and feel preferences to make the decision that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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