Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Gateron CAP Anniversary
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron CAP Anniversary mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, it becomes apparent that each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is renowned for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems and distinct 'marbley' quality. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary stands out for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes facilitated by the innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) is characterized by a more resonant and bouncy typing experience, the CAP Anniversary provides a snappy and polished feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron CAP Anniversary are quite similar, as both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal. Despite their similarities in the top housing, the Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate bottom housing.
In terms of sound and feel, the differences between the housing materials of the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the CAP Anniversary become more pronounced. The nylon bottom housing of the Baby Raccoon (V2) absorbs more sound than the polycarbonate bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. This creates a unique typing experience that sets the Baby Raccoon (V2) apart from the CAP Anniversary. However, both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housing, creating a consistent crisp and clear sound profile with a touch of translucency for RGB lighting.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron CAP Anniversary will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its nylon bottom housing, while both switches provide a sharp and crisp sound profile with their polycarbonate top housing. Whether you prioritize a unique typing experience with the Baby Raccoon (V2) or prefer the consistent sound profile of the CAP Anniversary, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, the Baby Raccoon (V2) has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the CAP Anniversary's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Baby Raccoon (V2) requires 63 grams, while the CAP Anniversary is heavier with 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium weight category, making them suitable for a range of typing preferences. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Baby Raccoon (V2), while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch. In terms of travel distance, the Baby Raccoon is the shorter option while the CAP Anniversary is the longer option. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Baby Raccoon, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the CAP Anniversary. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, but overall, they provide similar results as they are both linear switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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) linear switch offers a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, providing a bright and sharp auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Sound perception can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, offering a smooth, bouncy, responsive, and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is described as snappy, creamy, and polished, providing a responsive, smooth, and refined typing sensation. Both switches offer creamy and polished typing experiences, with the Baby Raccoon (V2) also including bouncy and invigorating qualities.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is characterized by a bright, resonant sound profile and a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch showcases exceptional smoothness, snappiness, creaminess, and polished finish in typing. While there are some overlapping qualities between the two switches, such as creamy and polished feel, the specific sound profiles and feel characteristics set them apart. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a bright, marbly sound signature with a crisp typing feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and value exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary switch with its unique CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design may be more suited to your preference. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so choosing between them comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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