Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, Gateron offers a wide range of options to suit different preferences. Two popular choices are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, both of which belong to the linear switch category. The Baby Raccoon is known for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. These extraordinary linear switches have been aptly described as "marbley." On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver from Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro lineup focuses on delivering an exceptional gaming experience. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness and a competitive edge. Additionally, they boast vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch that adds an exhilarating auditory element to gaming sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver share many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it visually appealing for those who plan to use lighting effects with their keyboards.
While the top housings are the same and offer similar results, the bottom housings differ between the two switches. The Baby Raccoon's bottom housing is made of nylon, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver's bottom housing is also made of nylon. 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, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, making it an important factor in the overall typing experience of these switches.
In summary, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a similar sharp and clear sound profile. The main difference lies in the bottom housing material, with both switches utilizing nylon. This material absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, it is important to note that the bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Overall, these switches offer different sound profiles due to their housing materials, making them suitable for different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it is clear that there are differences in weight. The Baby Raccoon has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the Baby Raccoon requires a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver only requires 50 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the better choice as it offers a lower actuation force and bottom out force. This lighter weight allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for extended work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience is desired, the Baby Raccoon with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces would be the preferred option.
While the weight of the switches differ, both options offer a similar range of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to achieve comparable results. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Baby Raccoon has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver is more traditional, providing a deeper feeling when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Baby Raccoon is considered shallower, which is preferred by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference. If you desire a more responsive typing experience, opt for the Baby Raccoon with its shorter travel distance. However, if you prefer a more hearty and deeper keypress, the G Pro 3.0 Silver with its longer travel distance would be the better option. Both switches offer their own advantages and can deliver similar results depending on the user's needs and preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is best described as having a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched profile. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound that is clean and sharp. The marbly adjective conveys the experience of 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 Silver linear switch offers a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. These switches produce a deeper, richer sound with a lower frequency range. The thocky nature of the switch creates a satisfying and pronounced sound when pressed and released. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch provides a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and buttery sensation due to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. The typing experience is akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, as they seamlessly melt into each keystroke. Additionally, the bouncy nature of the switch provides a spring-like feedback and lively feel with rebound when pressed. The invigorating sensation offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. Lastly, the polished finish of these switches reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch can be described as buttery and creamy in terms of feel. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation.
Based on the available information, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon switch offers a bright, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch provides a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon switch offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch provides a buttery and creamy sensation. It is important to consider these subjective qualities and match them with personal preferences when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a bright and resonant sound profile with a refreshingly crisp typing feel, then the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is the choice for you. These switches are known for their marbly sound and their longer switch stems, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for an exceptional gaming experience with lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a shorter travel distance and a lower-pitched and bassy sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to your personal preferences and whether you prioritize typing or gaming performance.
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