Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Hibiscus can significantly influence your typing experience. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is celebrated for its distinctively bright sound signature and a uniquely crisp typing feel, attributed to its longer switch stems that deliver a "marbley" sensation with each keystroke. Ideal for those seeking a lively and invigorating experience, this switch appeals to users who enjoy a bouncy, polished typing feedback. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus offers an extraordinarily smooth typing experience combined with an ultra-light actuation force, which makes it a formidable contender for speed typists and gamers alike. Characterized by its clacky and poppy sound, it caters to users who favor a crisp auditory response with less effort in finger travel. While both switches boast their individual strengths—one emphasizing a vibrant tactile response and the other focusing on fluid ease of use—your ultimate choice will hinge on your personal preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Hibiscus, distinct differences emerge that shape their overall sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sturdiness and ability to create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This rigidity allows the switch to produce a clear and resonant tone, making it particularly effective when illuminated with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus's top housing is made of nylon, a classic material known for its softer properties. This softness results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound waves, leading to a more rounded auditory experience. Thus, while the Baby Raccoon (V2) may deliver a crisp pop characteristic of its polycarbonate top, the Hibiscus offers a muter, more subdued response, emphasizing a smooth typing experience.
Looking at the bottom housings of these switches reveals a commonality, as both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and HMX Hibiscus utilize nylon for this part. The usage of nylon in the bottom housing contributes significantly to the sound profile of both switches. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs impact and vibrations, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound that enhances the overall typing experience. This shared characteristic means that when users engage with these switches, they can expect a similar depth in sound when bottoming out, due to the nylon's sound-absorbing nature, regardless of the differences in their top housings. Therefore, both switches can achieve a satisfying typing experience, albeit with variations in pitch and resonance due to the top housing material.
The interplay between the top and bottom housing materials demonstrates how the design choices in each switch lead to a unique tactile sensation and auditory profile. While the nylon bottom in both switches contributes to a consistent, rounded bottom-out feel, the differing top materials significantly affect the sound heard when a key is released. The Baby Raccoon (V2) with its polycarbonate top delivers a brighter, more articulate sound upon release, whereas the Hibiscus's nylon top results in a more muted, softer note. For enthusiasts seeking both types of experiences, exploring these switches offers an opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds—the distinct, high-pitched clarity of the Baby Raccoon (V2) paired with the rich, mellow tones of the HMX Hibiscus, ultimately allowing users to choose their preferred auditory landscape while maintaining a satisfying typing experience across the lineup.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch to the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, a clear distinction emerges 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, indicating a medium resistance that some users might appreciate for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus features a notably lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This lighter setup allows for easier keystrokes, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, particularly for those who prefer less strain on their fingers. Overall, the Hibiscus is the lighter option, facilitating quicker key presses, while the Baby Raccoon (V2) provides a heavier and more tactile feel, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial resistance when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Hibiscus has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you're looking for a switch that provides a bit more depth when pressed, the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be the preferable choice, offering a more pronounced feel. On the other hand, the Hibiscus, with its shorter travel distance, may cater better to those who favor quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches, while close in measurement, reflect a subtle shift in design philosophy—favoring either a bit more bottom-out feeling with the Baby Raccoon (V2) or a snappier action with the Hibiscus.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus 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) boasts a distinctive auditory character defined by its bright, resonant notes. Its high-pitched, marbly sound creates a clean and sharp audio experience, likened to the sound of billiard balls colliding or the clarity of tapping on marble. This unique auditory profile is complemented by the relaxing feel of the switches, which encourages a delightful typing session. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus linear switch's acoustic properties remain unspecified, leaving a void in its sound characterization. However, if the Hibiscus can achieve a similar clean, sharp tone like the Baby Raccoon (V2), users might enjoy an equally engaging auditory experience, influenced by their choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of tactile sensation, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is characterized by its creamy, bouncy, and invigorating feel, allowing for a smooth and responsive typing experience. Users can expect a polished key travel, offering a lively feedback sensation that makes each keystroke feel snappy and satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus switch is noted for its ultra-light actuation force, which suggests an overall smoothness in feel; however, specific descriptors relating to its tactile feedback and actuation nuances are currently unknown. If the Hibiscus maintains a focus on smoothness akin to the Baby Raccoon (V2), users could still expect a pleasurable typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and HMX Hibiscus linear switches stand out for their unique qualities, though the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a clearer sound profile and a rich tactile experience. While the Hibiscus holds promise with its ultra-light actuation, specific details on its sound and feel remain undisclosed. Should both switches share certain qualities, particularly in their smooth and responsive attributes, users may find similar typing satisfaction with either option, depending on personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Hibiscus linear switches largely depends on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you seek. If you enjoy a medium bottom-out force with a sound profile that is bright, resonant, and high-pitched, the Baby Raccoon (V2) could be your ideal match. Its unique lengthened stem provides a marbly feel that's both creamy and invigorating, making it perfect for those who favor a lively and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for something lighter and incredibly smooth, the HMX Hibiscus, with a bottom-out force of just 48 grams, offers an ultra-light actuation that's perfect for extended typing sessions or gaming. Its satisfyingly clacky sound adds an extra layer of enjoyment, appealing to those who prefer a sound signature that is poppy and crisp. In essence, go for the Baby Raccoon (V2) if you want a tactile response and a bright auditory experience, while the HMX Hibiscus is the way to go for a buttery smooth and effortless typing feel. Your choice should ultimately reflect your personal typing style and the sensory feedback that resonates with you.
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