Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Aflion Foggy Shadow provide unique options to consider. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is a linear switch that stands out for its bright sound signature and crispy type feel, thanks to its longer switch stems. Described as "marbley," these switches offer a resonant and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow is a tactile switch known for its light tactile bump and medium weight bottom-out force. With a focus on balanced performance, Aflion brings a neutral and low-pitched sound profile to the table. While each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that may appeal to different users, it is important to dive deeper into their specific features to determine which one aligns best with individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Aflion Foggy Shadow utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The use of this material helps produce a crisper and more resonant sound when typing, making it ideal for those who prefer a tactile typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Foggy Shadow both opt for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a quieter typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more subdued sound while typing. The softer nature of nylon also contributes to a smoother bottom-out feel when pressing down on the switches.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Aflion Foggy Shadow, the qualities each material brings to the switches complement each other. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches creates a sharp and resonant sound when typing, while the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a quieter typing experience. This combination of materials allows for a balanced typing experience that caters to both sound and feel preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 63 grams, with the Foggy Shadow being slightly heavier at 63.5 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Baby Raccoon makes it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Foggy Shadow provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is slightly longer than the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Foggy Shadow, while those who prefer a bit more depth and tactile feedback may lean towards the Baby Raccoon. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Foggy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Foggy Shadow for $3.91.
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 renowned for its resonant, marbly sound profile, emitting a high-pitched and clean auditory experience. This switch offers a crisp and sharp typing sound that can be likened to tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is designed to offer a moderate sound profile suitable for various typing environments.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is known for its creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished tactile feedback. The smooth and buttery typing experience, coupled with a spring-like bounce and reactive feedback, creates a polished and sleek typing sensation. On the contrary, information regarding the tactile feel of the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch is not available, but it can be inferred that the switch offers a comfortable and balanced tactile bump with a 63.5g bottom-out force, providing a satisfying typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon excels in providing a resonant and marbly sound profile with a creamy and bouncy tactile feedback, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow emphasizes a low-pitched and neutral sound with a comfortable and balanced tactile bump. Both switches cater to different preferences, and depending on individual preferences, users can achieve satisfying typing experiences with either switch.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, it comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a bright, crisp sound with a higher pitch and a marbley feel, then the Baby Raccoon (V2) is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced sound with a mellow, low pitch and a light tactile bump, then the Aflion Foggy Shadow is the switch that will suit you best. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to determine which one aligns more with your preferences and typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience.
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