Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. TTC Flaming Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Flaming Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and TTC Flaming Pink stand out for their unique tactile experiences and sound profiles. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is celebrated for its bright sound signature and a refreshingly crisp typing feel, largely due to its slightly longer 0.64mm stems that contribute to a “marbley” typing experience, characterized as resonant and invigorating. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Pink offers a smooth and responsive touch with a satisfying bottom-out sound that strikes a balance, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and day-to-day tasks. While the Baby Raccoon appeals to those seeking a lively and polished typing experience, the Flaming Pink caters to users looking for a satisfying performance without being overly loud. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
24mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Flaming Pink switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which significantly influence the sound profile of each switch. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer nature. Both switches exhibit a similar aesthetic quality, given their translucent properties, making them particularly appealing for setups using RGB lighting. Since both are fashioned from the same material for the top housing, users can expect comparable sound characteristics that align with the transparency and vibrancy of RGB effects.
In contrast, both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Flaming Pink switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housings. Unlike polycarbonate, nylon is a softer plastic, which lends itself to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Thus, when switching between these two models, users will recognize that the bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel during typing. The nylon bottom encourages sound absorption, resulting in a more muted auditory experience, which balances the crisper sounds from the polycarbonate top. Therefore, while the top might present similar acoustical qualities, the bottoms will deliver a distinct auditory experience.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings sets both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Flaming Pink apart while also establishing similarities in their sound profiles. The polycarbonate top creates a vibrant soundscape characterized by clarity and brightness, while the nylon bottom deepens this profile, ultimately yielding a balanced auditory result. Although the materials used in each switch contribute uniquely to the overall feedback and sound encountered while typing, the shared qualities of their top and bottom materials allow for a cohesive user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Flaming Pink linear switches, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch, while the TTC Flaming Pink features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a lower bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged usage would find the Flaming Pink more suitable, as it requires less force to actuate, reducing fatigue during extended sessions. In contrast, those who appreciate a heavier feel may favor the Baby Raccoon (V2), which offers a more substantial typing experience due to its increased forces. Ultimately, if trying to achieve similar results in typing or gaming fatigue, the Flaming Pink would be advantageous for lighter, longer use, while the Baby Raccoon (V2) would cater to those who enjoy a more significant tactile feedback and resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users will experience the same amount of key travel when pressing down on either switch, resulting in a similar feel and feedback during use. Since both switches share this identical travel distance, individuals seeking a consistent experience could choose either option without concern for differences in key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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) delivers a resonant and bright auditory experience, typified by a high-pitched and clean sound signature. This is characterized by the switch's "marbly" quality, reminiscent of high-pitched sounds that evoke the clinking of billiard balls—sharp and clear when pressed. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch also boasts a bright sound profile, but it is more subdued and is not as overtly loud. While it provides a satisfying bottom-out sound, the auditory output may lean more towards a gentle "thud" rather than the crystalline ringing of the Baby Raccoon (V2), making it potentially less distracting in a shared environment.
In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) excels with a typing experience that is creamy, bouncy, and invigorating, providing a smooth, lively feedback with every keystroke. This combination offers pronounced tactile sensations, likely due to a mix of materials and factory lubing that enhance the overall typing experience. On the other hand, there is no specific feel information provided for the TTC Flaming Pink, leaving a gap in making direct comparisons on tactile feedback and actuation sensations. However, if its intended smoothness and responsiveness are consistent with high-quality linear switches, one can expect a decent typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) presents a distinct combination of a bright, resonant sound and an invigorating, smooth feel that captures the attention of both typists and gamers. While the TTC Flaming Pink shares the characteristic of a bright sound, it remains more muted in comparison, with potentially unknown tactile qualities. Those looking for a balance of auditory experience and typing satisfaction between these two switches will find appealing attributes in both; however, the specifics regarding the Flaming Pink's feel leave a curious void.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Flaming Pink linear switches should depend primarily on your preferences for feel, sound, and typing experience. If you enjoy a medium actuation force with a unique and engaging sensory experience, the Baby Raccoon (V2) might be the better pick. Its resonant, marbly sound and invigorating tactile feedback can make typing feel almost luxurious, perfect for those who appreciate an invigorating auditory and tactile feedback during their typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter feel that supports prolonged use without fatigue, the TTC Flaming Pink switch may be more suitable. Its smooth, responsive action and satisfying sound profile are excellent for both everyday typing tasks and gaming, allowing you to type quickly and comfortably with minimal effort. Ultimately, your choice will come down to whether you crave a more pronounced typing experience with the Baby Raccoon (V2), or if you'd rather have a fluid, streamlined performance that the Flaming Pink offers.
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