Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Huano Caramel Latte
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Caramel Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often gravitate towards options that suit their unique typing styles and preferences. Two notable contenders in the linear switch category are the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Caramel Latte. The Baby Raccoon (V2) captivates users with its resonant, marbly feel, characterized by a crisp typing experience thanks to its longer stems, which create a distinctly bright sound signature. For those who enjoy a bouncy and polished touch, these switches are a perfect match. On the other hand, the Huano Caramel Latte excels with a medium weight bottoming out at 50g, offering a satisfying clack that enhances its super smooth actuation, making every keystroke a joy. While the Baby Raccoon caters to those who prefer a lively and invigorating typing experience, the Caramel Latte stands out for its overall smoothness and comfort. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Caramel Latte, notable differences emerge, particularly in the composition of their top housings. The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. This characteristic not only enhances clarity but also resonates well, especially when the switches are paired with RGB lighting, thanks to the material's translucency. In contrast, the Huano Caramel Latte employs POK, or polyketone, as its top housing material. While POK offers a smooth and durable experience with a higher coefficient of friction, its sound properties are distinctly different. The result is a clackier sound profile, promoting a different auditory experience when typing, despite being both exceptional materials used in switch design.
Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which creates a unifying sound characteristic. Nylon is recognized for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile, reducing higher frequency sounds and absorbing vibrations more effectively. As a classic material choice, the nylon bottom housing in both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and Huano Caramel Latte contributes to a round and muted auditory experience. Thus, despite the variances in their top housing materials—the clarity and resonance of the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the smoothness and durability of the Caramel Latte—both switches maintain a similar bottoming-out sound and feel due to the use of nylon in their bases.
Ultimately, combining the different top housing materials with the same nylon bottom housing results in distinct experiences while typing. The Baby Raccoon (V2) delivers a sharper sound with clear resonance when keys are released, thanks to its polycarbonate top, while the Caramel Latte offers a clackier response due to its POK top. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that when pressed down, both switches evoke that deep, full sound profile characteristic of nylon, leading to similar outcomes when it comes to the typing experience, albeit with varying tonal qualities arising from their unique top housings.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switches exhibit distinct characteristics when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, indicating a heavier feel that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Caramel Latte features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a softer touch that can make prolonged typing or gaming sessions less tiring for users who favor a lighter switch. Therefore, while both switches fall into the medium category with respect to their bottom out forces, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is the heavier option and would be better suited for those seeking a more robust feel, whereas the Caramel Latte is the lighter choice, ideal for those looking for ease and comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this regard. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel when pressing down on either switch, resulting in a consistent typing experience. Since both switches share the same travel distance, enthusiasts will find that their key presses will register at the same depth, contributing to an overall linear action that feels consistent across both types.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Caramel Latte has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Caramel Latte for $2.75.
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 Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) switches produce a bright, resonant sound profile characterized by a high-pitched and crisp auditory experience. This "marbly" quality elevates typing to an immersive level, akin to the sharp sound of billiard balls colliding or tapping on a solid piece of marble. The clarity of each keystroke stands out, making them a pleasure for those who prefer a cleaner sound. In contrast, the Huano Caramel Latte switches are also known for a bright, clacky sound, though specifics about their sound characteristics are less defined. The Caramel Latte's sharpness likely provides a distinctly enjoyable auditory experience, but details such as resonance or pitch are currently unknown, making them sound somewhat quieter or less resonant compared to the Baby Raccoons.
Regarding feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) switches deliver a multifaceted experience that blends creaminess and bounciness with an invigorating response. The smooth and buttery typing experience is complemented by a lively feedback sensation that brings a sense of spring to each keypress, adding to the overall enjoyment of typing. The polished nature of these switches offers reduced friction and effortless key travel. On the other hand, the tactile qualities of the Huano Caramel Latte switches remain unspecified, leaving a gap regarding their smoothness or feedback. However, based on their reputation for providing a smooth typing experience, they might offer a solid yet less dynamic feel compared to the Baby Raccoons.
In summary, while the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) switches excel in sound clarity and a rich tactile experience, the Huano Caramel Latte switches promise a pleasurable typing sensation with a bright sound profile that is enjoyable in its own right. The Baby Raccoons’ resonant, marbly characteristics make them stand out for those who prioritize vivid auditory feedback and an invigorating typing experience, while the Caramel Lattes may appeal to individuals seeking a softer touch and sound. Ultimately, both switches deliver satisfying results, but the choice will depend on personal preference regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switches ultimately depends on what kind of typing experience you prefer. If you find yourself gravitating towards a more pronounced auditory feedback and a unique feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the switch for you. With its medium bottom-out force of 63 grams and a delightful, marbly sensation, these switches provide an invigorating and bouncy typing experience. The high-pitched sound profile makes them ideal for those who enjoy a bright and engaging sound while typing, ensuring that every keystroke feels crisp and lively. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer touch with a smoother experience, the Caramel Latte switches, which have a 55-gram bottom-out force, are an excellent choice. Their super smooth action facilitates effortless typing, making it easier to glide through lengthy writing sessions or gaming marathons. You'll appreciate their medium-light force and clacky sound that adds a pleasant auditory element without overwhelming your senses. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you favor a firmer, more tactile experience or a lighter, silky smooth feel—both options have their unique charm and performance to elevate your keyboard experience.
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