Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Cheese mechanical keyboard switches, they both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese offers unparalleled smoothness and a pristine typing experience, along with a satisfying clacky sound signature. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) is categorized as resonant, marbly, high-pitched, creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, the HMX Cheese is known for being ultra-light and falling into a class of its own. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
46g
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
Ly
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Cheese differ significantly in terms of the materials used. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Cheese utilizes a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice between these two materials will ultimately come down to personal preference, as the polycarbonate will offer a more clear and resonant sound, while the nylon will provide a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Cheese use nylon material. This nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a more muffled and rounded sound when typing on these switches. This similarity in material for the bottom housing may lead to a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both switches.
When comparing the impact of the different housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that each material brings unique qualities to the switch. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. This means that while the Baby Raccoon (V2) may offer a sharper sound when pressing a key due to its polycarbonate top housing, the Cheese may offer a deeper sound when releasing a key due to its nylon top housing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the individual's preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Baby Raccoon has slightly heavier forces with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Cheese switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Baby Raccoon switch would provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a medium actuation and bottom out force, making them suitable for a wide range of users looking for a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the HMX Cheese linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. However, the slight difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be significant enough to be noticeable during everyday use. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, and users are likely to get comparable results with either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
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) linear switch offers a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean, sharp, and somewhat marbly, akin to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese linear switch is noted for its unmatched smoothness and pristine typing experience, boasting a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. Both switches provide unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, depending on personal preferences and setup.
Moving on to the feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is described as creamy and bouncy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation. The keys feel lively and invigorating, providing a snappy and reactive feel that enhances the typing sensation. Additionally, the switches are polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, information on the HMX Cheese linear switch feel is not provided, but considering its ultra-light nature and smoothness, it can be inferred that it also offers a unique typing experience with a focus on light actuation and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and HMX Cheese linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Baby Raccoon (V2) excels in its resonant and marbly sound profile, as well as its creamy and bouncy feel, providing a refreshing typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese switch stands out with its smoothness and ultra-light actuation, offering a satisfying clacky sound signature. Depending on whether you prefer a brighter sound profile or a smoother typing experience, both switches can provide excellent results for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch or the HMX Cheese linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in terms of typing experience. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force, a bright and crisp sound signature, and a marbley typing feel, then the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force, an ultra-smooth and clacky sound profile, and an unparalleled typing experience, then the HMX Cheese linear switch would be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience that aligns best with your preferences.
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