Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Glimp, both of which are linear switches. The Baby Raccoon is renowned for its unique characteristics, offering a bright sound signature and a delightfully crisp typing experience, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. These extraordinary linear switches can be best described as 'marbley', providing a refreshing and invigorating feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Glimp switch strikes a perfect balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. With its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, the Glimp switch delivers a satisfying and responsive typing feel. Additionally, its fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. While these general pointers give an overview of each switch's qualities, let's dive deeper into their specific attributes to help you make an informed decision regarding the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Glimp have several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic qualities from both the Baby Raccoon and the Glimp due to their shared polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the switches differentiate themselves with their choice of bottom housing material. The Baby Raccoon features a nylon bottom housing, while the Glimp also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastics. This is because nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, both the Baby Raccoon and the Glimp offer a similar typing experience in terms of the sound produced due to their shared nylon bottom housings.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the bottom and top housing materials will vary for each switch. When pressing down on either the Baby Raccoon or the Glimp, the bottom housing's qualities will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced. Therefore, while the housing materials of the two switches may share similarities, the specific experience of using each switch will be influenced by the individual characteristics of their top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Baby Raccoon has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Glimp's 43 grams, while both switches have similar bottom out forces with the Baby Raccoon measuring at 63 grams and the Glimp at 53 grams. The Baby Raccoon provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Glimp offers a lighter actuation force, allowing for a more effortless typing experience and an increased ability to type for longer periods of time without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preference, with the Baby Raccoon being the heavier option and the Glimp being the lighter option.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch have different travel distances. The Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the more traditional 4 mm travel distance of the Glimp. The shorter travel distance of the Baby Raccoon may be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key may opt for the Glimp with its longer travel distance. It is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches, as the shorter travel distance of the Baby Raccoon may feel abrupt to some users while others may appreciate its responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 sound profile. Typing on these switches offers a higher-pitched and clean sound experience, similar to tapping on a solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce sharp and snappy sounds that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. The Glimp switch falls into the neutral category, meaning it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Regarding feel, both the Baby Raccoon and Glimp switches share the same descriptor of being creamy. This means that typing on both switches offers a smooth and buttery experience, reminiscent of gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The creamy sensation can be a result of lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switches. Additionally, both switches fall into the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience. This means that the qualities of these switches are approachable and stand in a safe middle-ground zone, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon is characterized by a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, while the Glimp switch is clacky and falls into the neutral category. Both switches share the creamy feel descriptor, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. Additionally, they both offer a mild typing sensation, which is gentle and approachable. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a refreshing and crisp typing feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its bright sound signature and marbly switch stems, you can expect a clean, sharp, and immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the Baby Raccoon offers a creamy and invigorating typing sensation, thanks to its smooth and refined finish. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a satisfying and responsive typing feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch would be the better option. Its clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions, while still maintaining a moderate actuation force requirement. The Glimp switch also provides a creamy and mild typing experience, allowing for smooth and buttery keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a resonant and marbly switch or a clacky and mild one, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Glimp switches offer their own unique qualities to enhance your typing experience.
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