Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. HMX Canglan V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Canglan V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect linear mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Canglan V2 present two compelling yet distinct options. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is celebrated for its unique marbley feel, characterized by a bright sound signature and an invigorating typing experience thanks to its longer switch stems. Users often describe it as resonant and bouncy, making it ideal for those who enjoy a lively and engaging tactile interaction. On the other hand, the HMX Canglan V2 switch has garnered attention for its rich, thocky sound profile and smooth, light feel, providing a satisfying typing experience that HMX enthusiasts have long desired. Its deeper tonal quality and polished construction cater to users who appreciate a more subdued yet impressive auditory feedback. Both switches offer distinct benefits, appealing to different typing preferences and styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and HMX Canglan V2 switches exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The Baby Raccoon (V2) incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its stiffness. This characteristic creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, resulting in a crisper auditory experience when the switch is activated. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the RGB lighting effects, emphasizing visual appeal. In contrast, the Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, a material well-regarded for creating deeper, fuller sound profiles. Nylon's softer qualities absorb more sound, leading to a duller, rounder sound, which can appeal to users who prefer a less aggressive auditory feedback.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This commonality means that both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Canglan V2 will provide a consistently deeper and more resonant sound profile during key presses, thanks to nylon's inherent properties. The sound produced from the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, thus creating a more profound experience for both switches. This shared nylon material means users can expect a level of uniformity in acoustic response, even with the contrasting top housing materials.
The overall performance of each switch is further defined by the interaction between the top and bottom housing materials. In the case of the Baby Raccoon (V2), the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing blends with the deeper tones from the nylon bottom housing, producing a unique character that balances clarity and richness. On the other hand, the Canglan V2, with both top and bottom made of nylon, emphasizes a fuller, warmer sound, potentially appealing to users who favor a softer typing experience. In summary, while their materials diverge in some respects, both switches can achieve an impressive auditory result due to their shared nylon component, offering complementary sound profiles tailored to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch, it's clear that they cater to different preferences in typing feel. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, which provides a more substantial push that some users may prefer for a tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Canglan V2 is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of only 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, appealing to those who favor a more effortless keystroke, suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. With these specifications, the Baby Raccoon (V2) can be considered the heavier switch, while the Canglan V2 offers a lighter option. If users prefer a light switch for extended use, the Canglan V2 would be the ideal choice, while those seeking a stronger resistance may gravitate towards the Baby Raccoon (V2).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch, the Baby Raccoon (V2) measures 3.6 mm, while the Canglan V2 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you're seeking a switch that provides a bit more depth in your press, the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers that extra 0.1 mm, which could be preferable if you enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Canglan V2's shorter travel distance may provide quicker actuation, making it potentially more suited for gamers who favor swift responses. Both switches are relatively close in travel distance, but if you prioritize responsiveness, the Canglan V2 would be the better choice, whereas the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be favored by those who prefer a fuller keypress experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Canglan V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Canglan V2 for $2.99.
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) is notable for its bright and clean auditory profile. Described as having a resonant and high-pitched signature, it produces a sharp, crisp sound reminiscent of the impact of billiard balls colliding or tapping on a piece of marble, creating an immersive experience. This sound quality enhances the typing auditory pleasure for users who prefer a more elevated acoustic dimension in their mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the HMX Canglan V2 switch does not have detailed descriptions available regarding its sound profile, leaving its auditory characteristics somewhat of an unknown in comparison.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) truly shines with its creamy, bouncy, and polished sensations. This switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, thanks to factory lubrication and the careful choice of materials. With a lively and invigorating feedback, each keystroke feels responsive and fluid, creating an engaging typing session. In contrast, the HMX Canglan V2 is hinted to provide a light and smooth feel but lacks specific descriptors that detail its tactile feedback or responsive qualities, leaving users curious about its overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a well-defined high-pitched sound along with a delightful and polished feel, the HMX Canglan V2 presents an air of mystery as its sound and tactile characteristics remain unspecified. The Baby Raccoon impressively caters to those who appreciate auditory and tactile pleasuring in their typing experience, while the Canglan V2 may hold appeal through its promise of smoothness and a deeper sound profile that enthusiasts are eager to explore. Ultimately, for users seeking a specific tactile feedback and auditory response, the Baby Raccoon (V2) delivers a more established experience, whereas the Canglan V2 suggests potential that remains to be discovered.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you appreciate a more tactile experience with a medium bottom out force of 63 grams, the Baby Raccoon (V2) will cater to your needs perfectly. Its unique "marbley" sensation, coupled with a bright, resonant sound, offers an invigorating and polished typing experience that can make long typing sessions enjoyable. This switch is particularly suited for those who prefer a lively and crisp feedback that enhances your overall typing rhythm. Conversely, if you lean towards a lighter and smoother keypress, the HMX Canglan V2, with its gentle bottom out force of 48 grams, would be your ideal choice. Its thocky sound signature and light feel provide an effortless yet satisfying typing experience. The Canglan V2 excels for users who desire a more subdued auditory experience and a silky typing sensation. Overall, consider your typing style, how much feedback you appreciate from your switches, and which sound profile resonates with you.
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