Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Gold Red Pro both stand out as top contenders. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is renowned for its vibrant sound signature and satisfyingly crisp typing experience, thanks to its elongated switch stems. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro offers a versatile and smooth typing experience that caters to a wide range of user preferences. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) boasts a unique 'marbley' feel, the Gold Red Pro is praised for its neutral sound signature. Each switch has its own set of qualities that make it appealing for different purposes. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. The similarity in top housing material between these two switches suggests that users can expect a comparable sound experience when using either switch.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gold Red Pro switches utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches indicates that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch. The qualities of the bottom housing material will impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and TTC Gold Red Pro switches differ in material, the split between the two housing materials allows for a balance in sound and feel. The bottom housing, being made of nylon, will influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing, made of polycarbonate, will impact the sound when releasing a key. This combination of materials in the housing of these switches provides users with a varied typing experience that incorporates the unique qualities of both nylon and polycarbonate.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro is lighter, with an actuation force of 43 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gold Red Pro may be the preferred choice, as the lower actuation force allows for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Baby Raccoon (V2) with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to 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 Red Pro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quick response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a more responsive key press may opt for the Gateron Baby Raccoon, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the TTC Gold Red Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a similar experience in terms of travel distance despite the slight variation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red 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 Red 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a resonant and high-pitched experience, characterized by a marbley sound profile that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, with a neutral profile that is neither too pronounced nor too muted. The Baby Raccoon (V2) excels in producing a bright and immersive auditory experience, while the Gold Red Pro delivers a deep and satisfying sound that is rich and mellow. Overall, if you prefer a brighter and higher-pitched sound, the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be the ideal choice. However, if you lean towards a deeper and more neutral sound, the Gold Red Pro would be the more suitable option.
As for feel, both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gold Red Pro switches are described as having a polished finish, offering a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is known for its creamy and invigorating feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation with a spring-like feedback. Meanwhile, the Gold Red Pro offers a silky and mild typing experience, with a gentle resistance and a subtle feel that is approachable to most users. If you prefer a more pronounced and bouncy typing experience, the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be the better option. However, if you enjoy a smoother and gentler typing feel, the Gold Red Pro would be more suitable for your preferences.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out for its bright and resonant sound, along with its creamy and bouncy feel, providing a refreshing typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro excels in its versatility, offering a neutral and thocky sound, paired with a silky and polished feel for a seamless typing experience. Both switches have their strengths, and the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound pitch and typing sensation.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch or the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, you should take into account your preference for sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, along with a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, or polished feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky, low-pitched, or neutral sound profile, coupled with a polished, silky, mild, or subtle feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro might be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel, so choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences for an optimal typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
