Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Gateron CM
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron CM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, one popular choice is the Gateron Baby Raccoon, known for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel. These linear switches stand out with their lengthened switch stems, which add a refreshing touch to every keystroke. The Baby Raccoon switch can be described as resonant, marbly, high-pitched, creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. On the other hand, the Gateron CM switch breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, providing a richer and deeper sound signature. These switches come with an impeccable factory lube job, ensuring a smooth typing journey reminiscent of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Thanks to the lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM switches deliver a bouncy typing experience. Categorized as buttery, bassy, polished, thocky, low-pitched, creamy, and frictionless, the CM switch option is sure to impress. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
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
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gateron CM switches offer distinct differences in sound profile and aesthetics. The Baby Raccoon features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. In contrast, the CM switch uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. While the Baby Raccoon focuses on clarity and resonance, the CM prioritizes depth and fullness in sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its ability to create a deep and full sound profile. The nylon bottom housing in both the Baby Raccoon and the CM brings similar qualities to the switches, offering a satisfying typing experience. As a relatively softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contributes to a more immersive and enjoyable typing experience, making both switches suitable for those seeking a deep and full sound while typing.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a keyboard switch play different roles in creating the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. The Baby Raccoon's polycarbonate top housing enhances the sound when letting go of a key, emphasizing its crisp and clear sound profile. Conversely, the CM's nylon top housing adds depth and roundness to the sound when releasing a key. By understanding the distinct qualities of each housing material, users can choose the switch that best suits their preferences and desired typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch are quite similar, with only a slight difference in the bottom out force. Both switches have an actuation force of 55 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, both switches have a medium level of actuation force, making them suitable for those who prefer a balanced typing experience.
However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Gateron CM linear switch is slightly heavier. It has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is categorized as medium-heavy. This means that the CM switch provides a bit more resistance when fully pressed down compared to the Baby Raccoon switch, which has a bottom out force of 63 grams.
Considering weight preferences, those who enjoy a lighter typing experience may find the Baby Raccoon switch more suitable. Its slightly lighter bottom out force can contribute to a smoother typing feel, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing. On the other hand, the Gateron CM switch is better suited for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience.
In summary, while the actuation force of both switches is the same, the Gateron CM linear switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch. By considering these differences in force, users can choose which switch better aligns with their preferred typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Therefore, when pressing down on a key with either switch, you can expect to feel a similar distance of travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 linear switch offers a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile. Typing on these switches provides a clean and sharp sound experience, reminiscent of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Gateron CM linear switch delivers a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound. Key presses on CM switches result in a deeper and richer sound, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. If you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, the CM switches are a great choice. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps. However, with the information provided, one can expect the Baby Raccoon switches to produce a brighter and sharper sound, while the CM switches offer a deeper and more resonant sound.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon switch is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. These switches provide a smooth and buttery typing experience, thanks to factory lubrication or specific materials. Typing on Baby Raccoon switches gives a silky sensation, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Additionally, the Baby Raccoon switches offer a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. Similar to the Baby Raccoon, the CM switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. They offer a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, making it feel like your fingers effortlessly melt into each keystroke. Furthermore, CM switches are known for their reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a pleasing and smooth typing experience, ensuring comfortable and effortless typing.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon switches provide a bright, resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound, while the CM switches offer a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound. In terms of feel, both switches offer a creamy, polished, and buttery typing experience. The Baby Raccoon switches are described as bouncy and invigorating, providing a lively and snappy typing sensation. On the other hand, the CM switches are characterized as frictionless, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. Based on the available information, it is evident that these switches provide distinct qualities, allowing users to choose the sound and feel that best suits their preferences. However, it's important to consider other factors such as personal preferences, keyboard board, and keycaps, as they can also influence the overall experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prioritize a bright and clean sound with a crisp typing feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch would be your top choice. With its lengthened switch stems and resonant sound profile, the Baby Raccoon delivers an immersive auditory experience that resembles the sound of two billiard balls colliding. Additionally, the creamy and bouncy feel of these switches ensures a smooth and invigorating typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, the Gateron CM linear switch should be your go-to option. The full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job of the CM switches result in a richer and bassier sound profile, reminiscent of a deep thud or soft knock. When typing on these switches, you can expect a seamless, effortless, and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and CM linear switches will depend on your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a brighter, marbly sound and a creamy, bouncy feel, the Baby Raccoon will be perfect for you. But if you lean towards a deeper, bassy sound and a buttery, polished feel, the CM switch will meet your needs. Consider your personal typing preferences and choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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