Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the TTC Gold Red, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Baby Raccoon is best known for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems that set it apart from typical switches. With a marbly characteristic, these linear switches offer a unique typing experience that can be described as resonant, high-pitched, creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. On the other hand, the Gold Red linear switches from TTC provide a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. While offering a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red switches add a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. Categorized as thocky, low-pitched, neutral, mild, silky, subtle, and polished, these switches provide a different yet equally satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the TTC Gold Red, we find that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This shared material leads to similar results in terms of sound profile, as polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, which is advantageous for both the Baby Raccoon and the Gold Red.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Baby Raccoon utilizes nylon while the Gold Red also employs nylon for its bottom housing. Both switches benefit from the use of nylon, as it produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, regardless of the slight differences in the manufacturing process, both the Baby Raccoon and the Gold Red offer a similar typing experience with their nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the combination of different housing materials in a switch affects the overall sound and feel. In this regard, the Baby Raccoon and the Gold Red share common characteristics. When pressing down on both switches, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound that occurs when a key is released is more influenced by the polycarbonate top housing. So, while the materials used for the housings may differ slightly between the two switches, the impact on the overall typing experience resonates in a comparable manner.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, there are notable differences. The Baby Raccoon has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gold Red's lighter 43 grams. This means that the Baby Raccoon requires a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke. Additionally, the Baby Raccoon has a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Gold Red has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Baby Raccoon provides a more substantial typing experience with a higher force required to press all the way down.
In terms of weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. In this regard, the Gold Red with its lower actuation and bottom out forces may be a more suitable option. It allows for a lighter touch and reduces fatigue during prolonged usage. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Baby Raccoon. Its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying tactile feedback and a more robust typing sensation.
Ultimately, selecting between these switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, catering to different preferences and needs. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience, there are suitable options available in the Gateron Baby Raccoon and TTC Gold Red switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 4 mm distance is considered more traditional, while the 3.6 mm distance is slightly shorter. Gamers who prioritize faster response times often prefer shorter travel distances, making the Baby Raccoon switch a suitable choice for them. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deeper feeling when pressing down on a key may prefer the Gold Red switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 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 conveys the idea of a resonant, high-pitched, and clean sound, similar to tapping on a piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. If you prefer a sharp and crisp sound without rich and bassy tones, the Baby Raccoon switches are a great choice.
On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switches have a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. Thocky switches produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, resembling a deep "thud" or soft "knock." Low-pitched switches have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched ones. Additionally, the Gold Red switches are also described as having a neutral sound profile, which means they offer a moderate sound experience suitable for most users, whether beginners or advanced.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon switches are described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. These qualities contribute to a smooth, buttery typing experience. The application of lubricant at the factory and specific materials used result in a silky sensation as your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys. The bouncy characteristic provides a spring-like or elastic feedback, adding a lively feel and rebound when keys are pressed. The invigorating feel of Baby Raccoon switches offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, a snappy and reactive sensation, creating an immersive typing experience. Lastly, the polished finish of these switches ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switches have a mild, silky, subtle, and polished feel. The mild characteristic offers a gentle typing experience, suitable for users who prefer a more approachable and safe middle-ground sensation. Silky switches provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Subtle switches have a gentle resistance that is not too light but still maintains a light typing feel. Furthermore, the Gold Red switches also feature a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switches and the TTC Gold Red linear switches have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon switches offer a resonant and high-pitched sound with a marbly character, while the Gold Red switches provide a thocky and low-pitched sound with a neutral option. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon switches are creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, while the Gold Red switches deliver a mild, silky, subtle, and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences for sound and feel, but both options offer unique and satisfying qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a bright sound signature, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is a great choice. With its lengthened switch stems, it offers a refreshingly crisp typing feel and a marbley sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is the way to go. Its light-medium level of resistance and snappy sound profile add a touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the TTC Gold Red will depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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