Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is praised for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems that provide a 'marbley' sensation. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 is known for its deep 'clack' sound and seamless blend of sound and performance, making it a top choice for those seeking a satisfying acoustic experience. While both switches offer qualities like creaminess and a polished feel, they differ in terms of sound characteristics and typing experience. 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both feature polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. With similar top housing materials, both switches are likely to deliver comparable sound profiles and RGB lighting effects.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Hyacinth V2 utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the top housing may influence the sound upon key release, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. Despite the difference in the top and bottom housing materials, the switches are likely to offer similar typing experiences in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 contributes to their unique sound profiles and aesthetic appeal. While polycarbonate top housings create a crisp and resonant sound with the added bonus of RGB lighting compatibility, nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. These differences in housing materials allow for a diverse typing experience, catering to individuals with varying preferences for sound and feel in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch both fall into the medium actuation force category, with the Baby Raccoon having a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Hyacinth's 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Baby Raccoon requires 63 grams to fully press the key, while the Hyacinth only needs 52 grams, making the Hyacinth the lighter option overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Hyacinth for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Baby Raccoon. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces may cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, which is preferred by gamers for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to most users, but those who prefer a slightly longer travel distance may opt for the Baby Raccoon switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 for $2.91.
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) is known for its resonant, marbly, and high-pitched qualities, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience that can be likened to tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 is described as clacky, offering a sharp and percussive sound profile that contributes to a satisfying acoustic feedback. Both switches excel in delivering distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Baby Raccoon leaning towards a resonant and high-pitched tone, while the Hyacinth V2 offers a crisp and bright clack.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 share the creamy and polished characteristics, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that enhances the overall sensation of typing. Additionally, the Hyacinth V2 provides a frictionless feel, minimizing resistance and ensuring fluid key travel, while the Baby Raccoon is described as bouncy and invigorating, giving users a spring-like feedback and a reactive typing experience. The inclusion of silky and snappy descriptors for the Hyacinth V2 further emphasizes the commitment to providing a smooth and responsive typing feel.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of sound and feel for both switches, users can expect a premium typing experience with either the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) or the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2. While the Baby Raccoon leans towards a brighter and more marbly sound profile with creamy and bouncy feel, the Hyacinth V2 offers a clacky sound with a creamy, polished, and frictionless typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience desired.
Conclusion
In closing, when you're choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prefer a switch with a brighter, higher-pitched sound profile that provides a crisp and marbly typing experience, the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch with a deep 'clack' sound and a seamless blend of sound and performance, the Hyacinth V2 could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing, so choose the switch that best aligns with your desired typing experience.
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