Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Akko Fairy, both linear switches with unique qualities. The Baby Raccoons are best known for their bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to their lengthened switch stems. These switches are described as resonant, marbly, and polished, making them perfect for those who enjoy a bouncy and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy switches are designed with a focus on comfort and quietness, making them an excellent choice for office settings. With factory-applied lubrication and a medium weight, these switches offer a smooth typing experience without causing fatigue, making them polished, muted, and subtle. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Akko Fairy switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Fairy utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder quality. While the polycarbonate housing of the Baby Raccoon (V2) is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the nylon housing of the Fairy absorbs more sound, resulting in a different typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Akko Fairy switches use nylon. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound. As a result, the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches will be impacted by the nylon bottom housing, creating a more muted and rounder typing experience. This similarity in bottom housing material highlights the importance of the housing material in determining the overall sound profile and typing feel of a switch.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Akko Fairy switches share similarities in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, their differences in top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Raccoon (V2) creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Fairy offers a deeper and fuller sound. These contrasting qualities showcase how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the typing experience and sound profile of a switch. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile with polycarbonate or a deeper sound profile with nylon, both switches provide unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, we see that both switches fall within the medium range. The Baby Raccoon (V2) requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Fairy has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches provide a relatively similar typing experience in terms of the force required. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Fairy, making it better suited for those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel. However, for most users, the differences in force between the two switches may not be significant enough to impact their typing experience. Ultimately, the weight preference comes down to personal preference and the intended use of the keyboard.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko Fairy linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular for faster response times, particularly among gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be very noticeable to most users, but if you prefer a slightly shallower key press, the Akko Fairy may be the better option for you. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, with the Fairy having a slightly shorter press compared to the Baby Raccoon.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Fairy has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Fairy for $3.10.
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 (V2) linear switch is known for its resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, offering a crisp and sharp auditory experience that can be likened to tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Akko Fairy linear switch is described as having a muted and neutral sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for office environments or shared spaces. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Baby Raccoon being more resonant and high-pitched, while the Fairy leans towards a quieter and more neutral sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is characterized by its creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience, offering smooth and buttery key presses with spring-like feedback and reduced friction. Similarly, the Akko Fairy linear switch is also described as having a polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. The Fairy switch is further detailed as providing a mild and subtle typing feel, offering a gentle resistance suitable for most users seeking a comfortable and approachable typing experience. Both switches prioritize smoothness and key travel, with the Baby Raccoon leaning towards a more invigorating and bouncy feel, while the Fairy opts for a gentler and subtler touch.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities tailored to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon excels in delivering a bright, resonant sound with a creamy and invigorating feel, appealing to users seeking a tactile and immersive typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Fairy prioritizes a muted and neutral sound profile with a polished and mild typing feel, catering to those who prefer a quieter, smoother, and more approachable typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch or the Akko Fairy linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a unique typing experience with a bright and crisp sound profile, characterized by a marbley feel and a medium bottom out force, then the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience, with factory-applied lubrication for extended comfort in office settings, and a slightly lower bottom out force, then the Akko Fairy linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Consider the sound and feel descriptors for each switch to determine which aligns best with your typing style and environment. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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