Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch can make all the difference, and the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and HMX Gravel are two notable contenders in the linear switch category. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out with its unique sound profile and vibrant, marbley typing feel, thanks to its elongated stems that provide a refreshing crispness with each keystroke. Its resonant and invigorating characteristics create an engaging typing experience that many users find addictive. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force that promises responsiveness and ease, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize a seamless feel while typing. While both switches cater to different preferences—one emphasizing a lively sound and tactile experience and the other focusing on a silky, effortless feel—they each hold distinct advantages for various typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Gravel, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice fosters a similar sound profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature enhances resonance, making it an ideal material for achieving clarity, especially when it comes to light diffusion in RGB lighting scenarios. The translucent quality of the polycarbonate allows for effective illumination, thus both switches benefit aesthetically and functionally from this shared material, resulting in an enhanced user experience where sound and lighting interplay.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are composed of nylon, a classic material recognized for its sound-dampening properties. Nylon is known to yield a deeper and fuller auditory signature due to its softer structure, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a rounder, more muted sound profile that complements the sharper response of the polycarbonate top. While the top housing accentuates the higher frequencies of sound, the nylon bottom housing ensures that the overall acoustic experience is balanced by adding depth. Consequently, this combination allows both switches to produce a nuanced sound that appeals to different typing preferences.
Overall, while the Baby Raccoon (V2) and HMX Gravel differ in their bottom and top housing materials, they ultimately share a common goal of providing a distinctive typing experience through a sophisticated balance of sound characteristics. The combined materials create a unique synergy, with the polycarbonate top delivering clarity and brightness and the nylon bottom introducing warmth and depth. Users can expect a diverse auditory experience that reflects the distinctive qualities of each material used in the switches, while also maintaining a cohesive acoustic output.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Gravel linear switches, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, compared to the lighter 45 grams of the Gravel switch. Similarly, the bottom out force for the Baby Raccoon (V2) is 63 grams, while the Gravel's is significantly lower at 50 grams. This means the Baby Raccoon (V2) provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a firmer feel when typing or gaming. Conversely, the Gravel switch caters to those who favor a lighter touch, which may enhance comfort during prolonged use. In summary, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is the heavier switch, providing a firmer actuation and bottom out experience, while the Gravel offers a lighter, more effortless keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, the Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Gravel measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Baby Raccoon the switch with the longer travel distance, offering a bit more depth for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gravel's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for a faster actuation with less travel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences: those who appreciate the beefiness of a longer travel may gravitate towards the Baby Raccoon, while those who value speed and responsiveness might favor the HMX Gravel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) switches create a resonant auditory experience characterized by a bright, high-pitched tone. They evoke a sense of crispness and clarity, often described as “marbly,” akin to the sound of polished marble or the collision of billiard balls, providing a clean and sharp auditory feedback. This sound quality contributes to an enjoyable typing experience, particularly for those who appreciate a more articulate sound profile. In contrast, the HMX Gravel switches do not have a defined sound profile mentioned, making it difficult to compare directly. However, if the sound is not particularly emphasized, one might expect it to be more moderate or neutral compared to the more pronounced sound of the Baby Raccoon.
In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) switches offer a creamy, bouncy typing experience that is both smooth and invigorating. This means that users can expect a delightful combination of fluidity and responsive feedback, making it feel as if each keystroke is met with a gentle rebound. The polished nature of these switches further enhances the overall typing experience, as it minimizes friction during key travel. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel switches are noted for their exceptional smoothness and medium-light actuation force, leading to a responsive and effortless typing experience. While both switches aim for smoothness, the Baby Raccoon adds a touch of bounce and polish that may appeal to those seeking a more dynamic typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) switches are celebrated for their resonant sound and invigorating feel, offering a unique typing experience filled with character through their bright sounds and creamy feedback. While the HMX Gravel switches prioritize smoothness and a lighter touch, their specific qualities remain largely unknown, making it challenging to provide a comprehensive comparison. However, if you're looking for an enjoyable typing experience, both switches can certainly deliver satisfying results, whether through the marbly sound and bounce of the Baby Raccoon or the smooth responsiveness of the Gravel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Gravel linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and style. If you favor a more pronounced auditory experience with a distinct and bright sound profile, along with a moderately heavier actuation force that offers a more tactile and invigorating feel, then the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be a suitable option for you. Its unique marbly sound and creamy, bouncy texture will provide a delightful typing experience, making it great for both casual typing and intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you seek a lighter and smoother typing experience that requires minimal effort during keystrokes, the HMX Gravel switch could be your best bet. With its medium-light actuation force and effortless responsiveness, it ensures a quick and smooth feel that can be ideal for long typing sessions and fast-paced gaming alike. Ultimately, it’s about finding which switch aligns with your typing style: choose the Baby Raccoon for its vibrant feedback and sound, and select the Gravel for its luxurious smoothness and lighter touch.
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