Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Gold Brown Pro offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is a linear switch best known for its bright sound signature and crisp type feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. This switch is characterized by its resonant and marbly qualities, making each keystroke feel invigorating and bouncy. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch designed for those who prefer subtle feedback. With a gentle tactile bump and subdued sound profile, this switch offers a polished and thocky typing experience, perfect for those who value a quiet and immersive typing session. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Gold Brown Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. While both switches share this feature in common, the differences may lie in the design or branding of each switch.
Both switches also have nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material for the bottom housing. This tactile sensation can affect the overall typing experience, making it more satisfying for users who prefer a softer bottom-out sound and feel. Despite the similarities in using nylon for the bottom housing, variations in design or construction may still play a role in how each switch performs.
Since the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, the impact of each material can be felt differently depending on where the pressure is applied. The bottom housing has more of an influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Understanding how these housing materials interact with each other can help keyboard enthusiasts choose the switch that best suits their preferences for sound and tactile feedback. Whether it's the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) or the TTC Gold Brown Pro, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and typing experience due to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch's 45 grams, making the Baby Raccoon require a bit more pressure to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Baby Raccoon requires 63 grams while the Gold Brown Pro's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Baby Raccoon offers a more consistent typing experience throughout the key press, while the Gold Brown Pro's bottom out force remains a mystery. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Brown Pro for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier actuation force of the Baby Raccoon for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Gold Brown Pro switch has a longer distance for users to feel when pressing down on the key compared to the Baby Raccoon switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular with users looking for faster response times, especially in gaming. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Baby Raccoon switch to be too abrupt, while others may appreciate the slightly longer travel distance provided by the Gold Brown Pro switch for a more hearty feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance in keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 considering sound quality, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch stands out for its resonant, marbly, and high-pitched characteristics, offering a bright and sharp sound profile that provides an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is described as having a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying tone when pressed. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) delivers a more vibrant and high-pitched sound, the Gold Brown Pro offers a quieter and more subdued typing experience that may be preferable for those who seek minimal distraction.
Turning to the typing feel, both switches share the descriptor "polished," which signifies a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is praised for its creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished feel, providing users with a smooth, buttery sensation and lively rebound when pressed. In contrast, the Gold Brown Pro offers a silky, mild, subtle, and stepped feel, giving a gentle resistance and a more nuanced tactile feedback that is gentle and approachable for most users. Both switches aim to deliver a satisfying and comfortable typing experience, albeit through different tactile approaches.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon (V2) excels in providing a vibrant and sharp sound with a creamy and bouncy typing feel, while the Gold Brown Pro features a quieter and deeper sound profile alongside a subtle and refined typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feedback, users can choose between the bright and immersive experience of the Baby Raccoon (V2) or the understated and nuanced tactile feel of the Gold Brown Pro. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring that they can find a switch that suits their unique preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a resonant, high-pitched sound profile with a bright and crisp typing experience, the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky, low-pitched sound with a subtle tactile feedback that allows for an immersive typing experience with minimal distraction, the TTC Gold Brown Pro may be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
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