Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Durock Ice King Linear mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, attributed to its lengthened switch stems. Described as 'marbley', this switch is resonant, high-pitched, and bouncy, providing an invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear boasts a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube. With a subdued and polished feel, this switch offers a frictionless 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
52g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Durock Ice King Linear, we see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound when pressing down on the switches.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the two switches differ, with the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) using polycarbonate and the Durock Ice King Linear utilizing nylon. The Gateron switch's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic material. This distinction in top housing materials will result in a noticeable difference in the sound produced when pressing and releasing keys on the switches.
Overall, while both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Durock Ice King Linear share a nylon bottom housing for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, their differing top housing materials significantly impact the sound produced during typing. The Gateron switch's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more defined typing experience, while the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, catering to users who enjoy a more muted and rounded typing sound. The choice between these switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, one can see that both switches have fairly similar actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Ice King Linear's 52 grams, but both switches have a bottom out force of 63 grams and 62 grams respectively, making them both medium weight switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ice King Linear may be more suitable due to its slightly lighter actuation force. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches provide a balanced typing experience for users who enjoy medium weight switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Ice King Linear is slightly shorter than the Baby Raccoon (V2). Gamers looking for a quicker response time may prefer the Ice King Linear due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, those who desire a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Baby Raccoon (V2) with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar feel and performance due to their comparable travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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) linear switch offers a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile that provides a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch is described as having a subdued sound, offering a more dampened and subtle auditory sensation. Each switch's sound signature is unique and will ultimately depend on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is known for its creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience. With a smooth and buttery feel, these switches give a silky sensation while providing spring-like feedback and a refined finish. In comparison, the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch is described as silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance and a fluid key travel. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, giving users a range of tactile sensations to choose from based on personal preference.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch each offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) provides a resonant and marbly sound with a creamy and bouncy feel, the Ice King Linear offers a subdued sound with a silky and frictionless feel. Both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience with their distinct qualities, allowing users to customize their mechanical keyboards to suit their individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile with a bright and clean typing experience, the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a more subdued and dampened sound signature with an exceptionally smooth typing feel, the Durock Ice King Linear switch might be more appealing to you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and typing experience.
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