Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Flaming Purple linear mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Baby Raccoon is known for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. Its unique qualities make it resonate as marbly, bouncy, and polished. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple stands out for its resonant character with a touch of bassier undertones, providing an engaging auditory experience. With its feathery nature and light actuation force, it offers swift and effortless typing. While both switches have their own appeal and strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and usage. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
47g
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
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Flaming Purple switches feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting effects. As a result, both switches offer a visually appealing and acoustically pleasing option for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Flaming Purple switches utilize nylon, known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. By incorporating nylon bottom housings, both switches are able to enhance the tactile experience of typing, providing a satisfying feel with each keystroke that resonates with users who appreciate a more substantial sound profile.
When comparing the overall sound and feel of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and TTC Flaming Purple switches, it is important to acknowledge the impact of both top and bottom housing materials. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings for a clear and resonant sound with RGB compatibility, the nylon bottom housings deliver a deeper and fuller sound that enhances the tactile typing experience. The division of housing materials between top and bottom influences the overall sound profile of each switch, making them unique in their own right while offering similar results in terms of sound quality and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, it is evident that the Flaming Purple switch is lighter in both aspects. The Baby Raccoon has a medium actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple offers a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, making it easier to type for extended periods of time. Both switches cater to different preferences when it comes to typing feel, with the Baby Raccoon appealing to those who prefer a stronger push sensation and the Flaming Purple suiting those who enjoy a lighter touch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches based on travel distance, they will provide similar results as they both require the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. This means that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of the distance traveled when using either of these switches. However, it is worth noting that both switches have slightly different design characteristics and materials, which could impact the overall feel and performance despite the equal travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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 a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience that immerses the user in every key press. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch offers a slightly bassier and poppy undertone, creating a distinctive auditory flair with a resonant and low-pitched sound. Both switches provide unique sound characteristics, catering to users with different preferences in sound profiles.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) switch is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, emphasizing a smooth, buttery typing experience with spring-like feedback and a polished finish for reduced friction. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is characterized as feathery, easy-to-press, and silky, offering an exceptionally light actuation force for minimal finger strain and fatigue, ensuring a comfortable typing experience even during extended use. Both switches deliver distinct tactile sensations, appealing to users with varying preferences in key feel.
Overall, while the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and TTC Flaming Purple linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, both provide unique and engaging experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the resonant and marbly sound of the Baby Raccoon (V2) or the bassier undertones and feather-light feel of the Flaming Purple, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and key feel, ensuring a personalized mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a bright, resonant sound profile with a crisp typing feel, then the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch with a neutral sound profile that leans towards a bassier undertone, along with a feathery and effortless typing experience, then the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch could be the ideal option for your keyboard setup. Both switches have their unique characteristics and cater to different preferences, so ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound signature.
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