Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, both of which are linear switches. The Baby Raccoon is widely known for its unique characteristics, boasting a bright sound signature and an incredibly crisp typing feel. These switches stand out from the crowd due to their longer switch stems, which are 0.64mm longer than typical stems. This results in a tactile experience that can only be described as "marbley," making typing on these switches a delight. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red is a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, these switches strike a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch offers a satisfying auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) Linear

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$5.50 per 10

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housings of both switches provides a clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for users who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetics of the switches. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a polycarbonate top housing and want to add RGB lighting to your setup, both the Baby Raccoon and the G Pro 3.0 Red would offer similar results.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Baby Raccoon and the G Pro 3.0 Red differ in materials. The Baby Raccoon utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Red also features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Baby Raccoon and the G Pro 3.0 Red would provide a satisfying typing experience in terms of sound due to their nylon bottom housings.

Ultimately, the top and bottom housings of a switch each contribute to the overall sound profile and feel. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Thus, the Baby Raccoon and the G Pro 3.0 Red may differ slightly in the exact sound produced, as their bottom housings are different. However, both switches deliver excellent sound quality and a satisfying typing experience, making them suitable options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking switches with different housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, there are notable differences. The Baby Raccoon has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Red is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Baby Raccoon is 63 grams, which is slightly heavier than the G Pro 3.0 Red's 50 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be the ideal choice. With its lower actuation and bottom out force, it provides a smoother and more responsive keystroke, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing. This makes it a suitable option for those who spend extended hours at work or engage in long gaming sessions.

On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Baby Raccoon. With its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, it offers a tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience. This could be advantageous for those who prefer a more precise and deliberate keystroke.

While the actuation and bottom out forces of the Baby Raccoon and G Pro 3.0 Red differ, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium to light range. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of ease of keystrokes and overall typing efficiency, albeit with slight variations in force required. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for lighter or heavier typing experiences.

Travel distance

The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Baby Raccoon offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while 3.6 mm is shallower. However, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel when pressing down on a key, the Baby Raccoon with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals might find shorter travel distances too abrupt and prefer a greater sense of depth. In that case, the G Pro 3.0 Red with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is best described as resonant, marbly, and high-pitched. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. The marbly adjective is used to concretize the sound, likening it to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a neutral sound profile. It falls in the middle ground, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also affected by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. However, if you prefer a higher-pitched, resonant sound, the Baby Raccoon would be the better choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a more neutral and balanced sound experience.

When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the G Pro 3.0 Red switches have a creamy and polished typing experience. Creamy switches create a smooth and buttery sensation, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. This smoothness is often achieved through lubrication applied in the factory or specific materials. The polished switches, on the other hand, have a sleek and refined finish that reduces friction and provides a smooth key travel experience. Both switches offer these qualities, ensuring a pleasant and comfortable typing experience.

Overall, the subjective qualities of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and G Pro 3.0 Red switches vary in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon has a bright, resonant sound with a marbly high-pitched profile. It also offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a more neutral sound profile and a creamy, mild, polished, and silky feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and deliver a satisfying typing experience. However, if you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound with a bouncy and invigorating feel, the Baby Raccoon is the better choice. If a more neutral sound profile and a mild, silky feel are your preferences, the G Pro 3.0 Red meets those requirements. Rest assured, regardless of your choice, you can expect similar subjective qualities from either switch.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, a bright sound signature, and a refreshingly crisp typing feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches are characterized by their "marbley" feel and resonant, high-pitched sound profile. They provide a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more neutral sound and feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch would be the better option. These switches have a frosted light diffuser for brighter RGB lighting effects, and they offer a smooth and creamy typing experience. With their mild, polished, and silky feel, they provide a more approachable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) Linear

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more