Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Bsun Cliff
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Bsun Cliff switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, the choice of mechanical keyboard switches can make a world of difference. The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2), a linear switch, is celebrated for its unique tactile response, characterized by a "marbley" feel that offers a bright sound signature and a refreshingly crisp typing experience, thanks in part to its longer switch stems. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prefer smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes with minimal noise. In contrast, the Bsun Cliff switch presents a tactile sensation with medium tactility and a crisp sound, appealing to those who enjoy feedback during their typing sessions. This tactile response provides a satisfying bump that can enhance the typing rhythm, particularly for those who type frequently or engage in gaming. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics and advantages, catering to different preferences in feel 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
37g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Bsun Cliff feature polycarbonate constructions for their top housings. This shared choice of material yields comparable acoustic characteristics, as polycarbonate is recognized for providing a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. With its stiffer composition, polycarbonate facilitates resonant sound quality, making it a preferred option for enthusiasts who desire an enhanced auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate housing in both switches enhances their aesthetic appeal, especially beneficial for setups utilizing RGB lighting. Consequently, users can expect a similar acoustic result from both switches due to this uniformity in material.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Bsun Cliff are both made of nylon, another shared characteristic that influences the overall sound and feel during key presses. Nylon's softer properties create a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it tends to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a rounder and more mellow auditory experience compared to the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate top housings. By maintaining the same material for the bottom housing, both switches promise a consistent impact on the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, contributing to a smooth typing experience.
When evaluating the overall performance of these switches, it’s essential to consider how the combination of materials in the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Bsun Cliff interact to create a harmonious typing experience. Though both switches utilize the same materials, the transition between polycarbonate and nylon creates a duality in sound, allowing for a differentiation in noise profiles when pressing and releasing keys. As a result, while the top housings sharpen the sound upon release, the softer nylon bottoms cushion the impact on downstrokes, offering a unique blend of auditory contrast that satisfies both tactile and auditory preferences. This symmetry in material selection results in switches that, while distinct in branding, deliver a surprisingly cohesive typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch to the Bsun Cliff tactile switch, a distinct difference in actuation and bottom out forces emerges. The Baby Raccoon (V2) requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Bsun Cliff switch is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This difference implies that users who favor the lighter Cliff switch will likely experience less fatigue during long typing sessions, making it a better option for those who need to work continuously or engage in extended gaming. Conversely, the heavier Baby Raccoon (V2) appeals to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a firmer feel when pressing the keys. Thus, while both switches serve different preferences, the Baby Raccoon (V2) provides a more robust tactile feedback compared to the softer touch of the Bsun Cliff.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Bsun Cliff tactile switch both share a travel distance of 3.6 mm, resulting in similar performance when it comes to key engagement. This identical travel distance means that users can expect similarly responsive feedback and key feel when pressing each switch. Whether you're looking for a smooth linear experience with the Baby Raccoon or a tactile sensation with the Cliff, the consistent travel distance ensures that both switches will deliver comparable results in terms of how far the key travels from the top to the bottom.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 is notable for its bright and resonant qualities, characterized by a crisp and high-pitched sound signature. It's often described using terms like "marbly" and "high-pitched," evoking imagery of a clean auditory experience, reminiscent of tapping on solid marble or the collision of billiard balls. This results in a sharp and immersive typing sound, which is particularly appealing for those who prefer a less muted auditory profile. On the other hand, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch does not have specific sound qualities documented, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison for this aspect. However, tactile switches generally have their own distinct sound that can vary based on design and construction.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) excels with descriptors such as "creamy," "bouncy," and "invigorating." The smooth and buttery experience offered by these switches can be attributed to either factory lubrication or specific materials, resulting in a polished and fluid keystroke action. The lively feedback and moderate to firm actuation force create an engaging typing sensation that enhances overall user experience. In contrast, details regarding the feel of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch are absent, which leaves an unknown quality in this regard. Typically, tactile switches deliver a different sensation compared to linear switches, focusing on a tactile bump rather than a smooth press.
In summary, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch offers an impressive combination of sounds and tactile sensations, highlighted by its bright, resonant acoustics and smooth, invigorating feel. The Cliff switch, while offering medium tactility, lacks specific sound and feel descriptions, leading to uncertainties in comparison. Those who enjoy the characteristics of the Baby Raccoon may find it more aligned with their preferences, especially if they prioritize sound clarity and typing smoothness.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Bsun Cliff tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and what you prioritize in your keyboard experience. If you enjoy a typing experience that feels smooth and invigorating with a lively sound and tactile feedback, the Baby Raccoon (V2) could be the ideal choice for you. Its medium bottom-out force of 63 grams combined with its longer switch stem delivers a unique "marbly" sensation, making each keystroke feel dynamic and engaging. This switch would be particularly well-suited for users who appreciate a higher-pitched auditory experience alongside a refined and polished typing feel. On the other hand, if you're someone who prefers lighter actuation and a tactile bump to guide your typing, the Bsun Cliff switch may better serve your needs. With a lighter bottom-out force of just 45 grams and a medium level of tactility, it provides a more subtle but satisfying tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for typing-heavy tasks or daily usage where a softer feel is desired. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not just the sound and tactile preference but also how much feedback you enjoy during your interactions with your keyboard.
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