Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Outemu Crystal
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Outemu Crystal switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that come to mind are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Outemu Crystal, both of which are linear switches. The Baby Raccoon switches are characterized by their bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing feel. This can be attributed to their longer switch stems, making them stand out with a unique and "marbley" experience. On the other hand, the Crystal switches offer a fairly elastic typing feel with a medium-light weight, providing a distinct linear typing experience. Additionally, these switches have a neutral sound profile while typing. Both switches have their own strengths, but to truly decide on the best fit for your preferences and needs, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Outemu Crystal, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This results in similar qualities for both switches, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in switches with clear housing is aesthetically pleasing, especially for those who plan to use RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting effects to shine through, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Baby Raccoon features nylon while the Crystal uses polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Baby Raccoon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal aligns with the top housing, creating a consistent sharper and crisper sound profile throughout the switch.
In terms of the overall impact on sound and feel, the qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent during key presses, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches share similar qualities in terms of their top housing material, the different bottom housing materials add their own characteristics to the typing experience, providing slight variations in sound and feel between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Outemu Crystal.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Baby Raccoon is slightly heavier at 55 grams compared to the Crystal's lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Baby Raccoon requires a force of 63 grams, while the Crystal requires a lighter force of 55 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Crystal switch would be a suitable choice, as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower than the Baby Raccoon. This lighter force allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue, making it ideal for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Baby Raccoon switch. Its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a more robust typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Outemu Crystal switches have their own unique characteristics when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a lighter and gentler typing experience with the Crystal switch or a more substantial and robust experience with the Baby Raccoon switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch have contrasting travel distances. The Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Crystal has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Crystal falls within the more common range of 4.0 mm, while the Baby Raccoon offers a slightly shorter distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Baby Raccoon with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Crystal with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth in keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) comes in at $5.50, whereas the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40.
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 switches are best known for their resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile. Typing on these switches provides an immersive auditory experience, with a clean and sharp sound. The sound can be likened to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the collision of two billiard balls. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal linear switches have a neutral sound profile, described as chirpy and high-pitched. These switches have a unique acoustic signature that sets them apart, adding a little squeak to the typing experience. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, with the Baby Raccoon providing a more resonant and marbly sound, while the Crystal delivers a chirpy and high-pitched auditory experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switches are described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. These switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, thanks to lubrication applied in the factory or specific materials used. Typing on a Baby Raccoon switch feels silky, as your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys, melding into each keystroke. Furthermore, the keys provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving a lively and bouncy feel, offering a sense of rebound when pressed. The switches also offer pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. Additionally, the polished finish of these switches reduces friction and enables smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal linear switches are also described as polished, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a refined and smooth feel, thanks to either the materials used or factory lubing.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switches and Outemu Crystal linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon switches have a resonant and marbly sound profile, while the Crystal switches provide a chirpy and high-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon switches offer a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience, while the Crystal switches offer a polished and sleek feel. It's important to note that individual preferences for sound and feel may vary, and factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen can also influence the overall typing experience. If you're looking for similar results, both switches offer a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
If you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a bright sound signature, the Baby Raccoon may be the better choice for you. The lengthened switch stems of the Baby Raccoon contribute to a crisp typing feel and a unique marbley sensation. With its resonant and high-pitched sound profile, typing on the Baby Raccoon can provide an immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a more neutral sound profile, the Crystal may be the preferable option. The Crystal switches offer a fairly elastic type feel and a sleek typing experience. While its high-pitched sound profile may not appeal to everyone, the Crystal switches have a chirpy and sharp sound when pressed.
In terms of feel, both switches offer smooth and refined finishes, resulting in a polished typing experience. The Baby Raccoon switches are described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, providing a silky sensation, spring-like feedback, immersive typing experience, and reduced friction. The Crystal switches, on the other hand, are also described as polished, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Baby Raccoon switches are best known for their bright sound signature, crisp typing feel, and marbly sensation, while the Crystal switches are known for their elastic type feel, medium-light weight, and neutral sound profile. Consider your individual preferences in terms of sound and feel when making your decision.
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