Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Bsun Chiikawa - 45g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g both offer unique experiences tailored to different typing preferences, despite both being classified as linear switches. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is celebrated for its longer switch stems, which contribute to a marbley typing feel and a bright, resonant sound profile that many users find invigorating and polished. This switch is ideal for those who crave a satisfying tactile response and an engaging auditory experience while typing. Conversely, the Chiikawa - 45g stands out with its very light actuation force, making it remarkably responsive and perfect for users who prioritize speed and agility in their keystrokes. Its crisp, high-pitched sound further adds to the delight of typing, catering to those who enjoy a nimble and efficient keyboard experience. While both switches have their merits, the choice ultimately boils down to personal preference in tactile feedback and sound. 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
51g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3X
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which contributes to a similar auditory experience while typing. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity and translucency, which allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness ensures that the acoustics are clear and powerful, amplifying the brightness of each keystroke. Moreover, with the advantage of being clear, both switch models are well-suited for setups that include RGB lighting, enhancing not only their aesthetic appeal but also the interactive lighting experience seen in many modern keyboards.
In contrast, both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Chiikawa - 45g utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which brings about a different sound characteristic to their overall typing experience. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material choice results in a rounder and more muted bottom-out sound compared to the brighter tones produced by the polycarbonate top. As a consequence, the experience of typing on both switches will feel pleasantly balanced, with the clarity of the top housing complementing the warmth of the bottom housing.
Since the top and bottom housings in both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Chiikawa - 45g are made of the same materials, the switches can be expected to yield similar results in terms of sound and feel. While the polycarbonate top adds brightness and resonance to the keystroke, the nylon bottom tempers it with a softer, more rounded quality. Users can enjoy a well-rounded typing experience where the sharper sounds from the top housing are balanced by the deeper notes from the bottom housing. This harmonious combination is emblematic of the quality found in both switches, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate nuanced sound profiles in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces stand out. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, which positions it as the heavier option. This choice might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, allowing for greater feedback with every keystroke. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 45g is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, catering to those who favor a softer touch and less fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions. Thus, if you prefer effortless keystrokes, the Chiikawa’s lower force specifications make it the recommended choice; however, the Baby Raccoon's heavier forces may provide a satisfying tactile sensation for those who enjoy more resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch, both switches have identical travel distances of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressed down, users will experience the same amount of key travel with either switch, leading to a similar tactile response during typing or gaming. Therefore, those seeking a consistent feel in their keyboard experience can confidently choose between the two switches, knowing that they will achieve the same results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 45g for $3.29.
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 comparing the sound of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switches, both exhibit a bright sound profile, creating an engaging auditory experience for typists. The Baby Raccoon (V2) boasts a resonant and high-pitched quality, providing a clean and sharp auditory response that emphasizes a more pronounced sound during keystrokes. It's particularly suited for those who prefer more lively and crisp feedback, avoiding the deeper and richer tones found in other switches. While the Chiikawa - 45g is also noted to produce a crisp, high-pitched sound, specifics about its overall sound profile are not extensively detailed; however, it shares the characteristic of being clean, contributing to a similarly engaging typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is characterized by its creamy, bouncy, and invigorating sensations. This switch offers a smooth and buttery feel, likely enhanced by its factory lubrication, delivering a silky typing experience that allows for effortless gliding across the keys. The lively, elastic feedback provides an engaging tactile response, making every keystroke feel snappy and reactive. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 45g does not have specific descriptors available regarding its feel, which leaves some ambiguity. However, given its light actuation force and reputation for responsiveness, it's likely that it will offer a decent typing experience, albeit possibly lacking the nuanced feedback attributes present in the Baby Raccoon (V2).
In conclusion, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switches share a bright auditory signature, making them appealing to users who prefer a lively typing sound. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out with its detailed feel, providing a creamy and invigorating experience that may not be matched by the Chiikawa due to the lack of specific attributes. Ultimately, while users can expect similar bright sounds from both switches, the tactile experience of the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be more richly nuanced, catering to those who appreciate a more sophisticated typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a typing experience characterized by a medium force that offers a bit more resistance, alongside a bright, high-pitched sound profile and a creamy, bouncy feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is an excellent fit for you. Its resonant and polished nature makes it ideal for those who appreciate a tactile yet smooth keystroke experience, especially during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and an incredibly responsive switch, the Chiikawa - 45g would be your go-to choice. With its lower actuation force and crisp sound, it's perfect for faster typing or gaming, allowing you to type with agility and ease. Therefore, consider how much resistance you want in your keystrokes and the sound profile that you find most pleasant when making your decision between these two switches.
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