Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options to consider are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gateron Ink Black V2, both of which are linear switches. The Baby Raccoon switch is best known for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing feel. This can be attributed to its lengthened switch stems, which are 0.64mm longer than typical stems. The result is an extraordinary linear switch that can be described as "marbley." On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has stood the test of time and remained a community favorite. Its smooth downstroke and rich clack make it a pleasure to type on. While the Baby Raccoon offers a resonant and invigorating typing experience, the Ink Black V2 provides a low-pitched and bassy experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and Gateron Ink Black V2 switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Baby Raccoon features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by a pointed and high-pitched sound but without excessive sharpness. This results in a satisfying and clacky sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Baby Raccoon employs a nylon material, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which produces a pointed and high-pitched sound, similar to the top housing. This clacky sound effect complements the overall sound profile of the switch.
When comparing the two switches, it is important to note that the impact of each housing material is divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences in housing materials, both switches provide satisfying, high-pitched sound profiles. However, the Baby Raccoon's polycarbonate top housing may result in a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Baby Raccoon has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams, while the Ink Black V2 requires a slightly heavier force of 60 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches fall within the medium range, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for most users.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Baby Raccoon requires a force of 63 grams to fully press down, whereas the Ink Black V2 demands a slightly higher force of 70 grams. This makes the Ink Black V2 the heavier option for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider as it can impact typing stamina and overall user experience. Some individuals may prefer the lightness of the Baby Raccoon switch, enabling them to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. This lighter option is particularly suitable for those who use their keyboard for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prioritize a stronger and more robust typing experience may opt for the Ink Black V2 switch, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
In conclusion, while there are differences in actuation force and bottom out force between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches, both provide similar results in terms of medium actuation and bottom out forces. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, we find that the Baby Raccoon has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ink Black V2 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can have an impact on the typing or gaming experience. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Ink Black V2 falls into the more traditional range, providing a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Baby Raccoon is slightly shallower, which is often preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize quick and responsive key presses, the Baby Raccoon's shorter travel distance may be the better option. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the Ink Black V2's longer travel distance offers a more satisfying feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 linear switch is known for its bright and crisp sound signature. It has a resonant and high-pitched sound profile that provides a clean and sharp auditory experience. The marbly adjective perfectly captures the unique sound these switches produce, resembling the tapping on a solid piece of marble or the collision of two billiard balls. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a different sound experience. It has a low-pitched and bassy tone, creating a more mellow sound profile compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, these switches have a chirpy characteristic, which adds a subtle squeak to your typing. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon switch is described as offering a creamy and bouncy typing experience. The creamy switches provide a smooth and buttery sensation, making it feel like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Additionally, the bouncy characteristic gives these switches a spring-like feedback, providing a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The Baby Raccoon switch is also considered invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, resulting in an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is said to have a mild and polished feel. The mild characteristic indicates a gentler typing experience, suitable for most users as it stands in the middle-ground with its qualities. Similar to the Baby Raccoon switch, the Ink Black V2 switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon switch delivers a bright and resonant sound profile, while the Ink Black V2 switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone with a chirpy characteristic. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon switch provides a creamy and bouncy typing experience, while the Ink Black V2 switch offers a mild and polished feel. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. It's important to consider your personal preferences and the overall setup of your keyboard to determine which switch would be the best fit for you. However, if you prefer a bright and crisp sound with a creamy and bouncy typing experience, the Baby Raccoon switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a milder sound and feel with a polished finish, the Ink Black V2 switch would offer similar results.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal sound and feel preferences.
If you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Baby Raccoon would be a great choice for you. It offers a bright and crisp typing experience with a clean and sharp sound. The "marbly" adjective perfectly captures the unique characteristics of these switches. They provide a refreshing and immersive auditory experience, similar to tapping on a solid piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lower-pitched sound with a deeper and richer tone, the Ink Black V2 is the switch for you. It offers a smooth downstroke and a satisfying clack. The switches are described as "low-pitched" and "bassy," providing a more mellow and bass-heavy sound profile. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Baby Raccoon offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience. The switches feel buttery-smooth and provide a spring-like feedback, giving you a lively and invigorating feel while typing. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel for most users.
In a nutshell, if you prioritize a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile with a creamy and bouncy feel, go for the Gateron Baby Raccoon switch. But if you prefer a lower-pitched sound with a mild and polished feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is the way to go. Ultimately, it's all about personal preference and finding the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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