Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Dareu Dream both stand out as popular linear options. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is known for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. Described as 'marbley' and categorized as resonant, marbly, high-pitched, creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, these switches offer a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switches provide a light linear option at an attractive price point, making them a top choice for enthusiasts seeking both quality and affordability. Known for being easy-to-press, clacky, and mild, the Dream switches offer a different typing feel compared to the Baby Raccoon. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Dareu Dream both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Dareu Dream differ in their bottom housings, with the former using nylon and the latter using nylon as well. Nylon bottom housings produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, their nylon bottom housings offer slightly different benefits. The split between the bottom and top housing materials means that when pressing down on the switch, you will feel the qualities of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Dareu Dream showcase how different housing materials can influence the overall typing experience, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to a deeper sound profile while the polycarbonate top housing enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Dareu Dream demonstrate the importance of housing materials in creating unique sound profiles for mechanical switches. While they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, their choice of nylon for the bottom housing highlights the different sound characteristics each material brings. The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, while the Dareu Dream provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in these switches contributes to their overall typing experience and sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is evident that the Dream is lighter in both aspects. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has a medium actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a balance between light and heavy typing experiences. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Dream, as it requires less force for both actuation and bottoming out. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Baby Raccoon (V2) due to its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Baby Raccoon has the shorter travel distance compared to the Dream switch. A shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more substantial and tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific use case. However, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of linear feel and actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is known for its resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience as you type. In contrast, the Dareu Dream linear switch is described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. When it comes to feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is characterized by a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing sensation, giving a smooth and buttery experience with lively feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch is easy-to-press and mild, requiring minimal force to activate and delivering a gentle typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. If you enjoy a resonant and marbly sound with creamy and bouncy feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) would be a great choice. If a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel are more to your liking, then the Dareu Dream switch might be the better option for you. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a resonant, marbly, high-pitched sound profile with a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, or polished tactile feel, then the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and an easy-to-press or mild typing feel that is gentle and low-impact, then the Dareu Dream linear switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
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