Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. HMX Cloud - 63.5g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, both of which are linear switches. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is well-known for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g offers a clacky sound profile and a heavier typing experience for enthusiasts who prefer a bright typing experience. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) is characterized as resonant, marbly, high-pitched, and bouncy, the Cloud - 63.5g is known for its bouncy, clacky, creamy, and high-pitched attributes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
56g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 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 Cloud - 63.5g switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller tone compared to the polycarbonate of the Baby Raccoon (V2).
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Cloud - 63.5g switches employ nylon, offering a similar typing experience. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic is consistent across both switches, making them ideal choices for users looking for a quieter and more muted typing experience. Despite having different top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing ensures a uniform sound profile between the two switches.
While the top and bottom housings play a crucial role in determining the sound profile of a switch, the differences in material can result in varying experiences. The Baby Raccoon (V2)'s polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper sound when releasing a key, while the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller tone. On the other hand, the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel, with both switches sharing nylon for this component. Ultimately, the choice between the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Cloud - 63.5g will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch reveals some similarities and differences. Both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Baby Raccoon having a bottom out force of 63 grams and the Cloud - 63.5g having a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. However, the actuation force of the Baby Raccoon is slightly lighter at 55 grams, while the actuation force of the Cloud - 63.5g is 56 grams. This means that the Cloud - 63.5g offers a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Baby Raccoon. The weight of a switch is a crucial factor to consider, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Baby Raccoon for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Cloud - 63.5g for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) has a shorter travel distance compared to the HMX Cloud - 63.5g. This means that the Baby Raccoon (V2) will require less distance to be pressed down fully compared to the Cloud - 63.5g. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the level of depth and responsiveness desired in typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 63.5g for $2.99.
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, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, providing users with a clean and sharp auditory experience that is immersive and bright. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, resulting in a sharp, crisp, and percussive typing experience that appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy a bright sound profile. While both switches have a high-pitched element to their sound, the Baby Raccoon (V2) leans towards a more resonant and marbly tone, while the Cloud - 63.5g offers a clacky and sharp sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, offering users a smooth, buttery, and spring-like typing experience with pronounced feedback and reduced friction. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch also provides a bouncy and creamy feel, giving users a lively sensation with elastic feedback and a silky smooth typing experience. Both switches focus on providing users with a tactile and responsive feel, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) excels in providing a marbly, resonant sound and a creamy, bouncy feel, the Cloud - 63.5g delivers a clacky, high-pitched sound and a bouncy, creamy feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, users can choose between these switches to customize their typing experience. Overall, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience with their distinct characteristics, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences. If you are looking for a switch with a bright sound profile and a crisp typing feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) with its marbly characteristics may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth typing experience, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch may be more up your alley. Consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel that best suits your needs and preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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