Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gateron Ink Red. The Baby Raccoon is a linear switch characterized by its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. They are often described as "marbley" due to their unique qualities. On the other hand, the Ink Red is also a linear switch but stands out for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. Known for being satisfyingly smooth, it offers a crispy and clacky sound profile. Both switches have their own unique qualities and advantages, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon and Gateron Ink Red switches differ in their housing materials, leading to distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Baby Raccoon features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the proprietary INK blend top housing of the Ink Red produces a pointed, high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both switches have unique sound signatures, they are quite different from each other.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Baby Raccoon employs a nylon material, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Ink Red utilizes its proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing, which also contributes to its distinctive pointed and high-pitched sound. Despite having different materials, the bottom housings of both switches create a satisfying thin sound, but with slight differences in pitch and sharpness.
When considering the overall typing experience, the differences in top and bottom housings become more apparent. Pressing down on either switch will primarily engage the qualities of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. However, releasing the key will emphasize the impact of the top housing on the sound. Therefore, while the Baby Raccoon and Ink Red offer similar thin and high-pitched sounds, the materials used in their top and bottom housings provide individual nuances to the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gateron Ink Red switches showcase contrasting housing materials, resulting in unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Raccoon emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound, while the INK blend top housing of the Ink Red produces a pointed and clacky tone. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Baby Raccoon creates a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the INK blend bottom housing maintains a satisfying thin and high-pitched profile. Understanding the impact of these housing materials on sound and feel allows users to choose the switch that aligns with their preferred typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Baby Raccoon has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Ink Red's 45 grams, making the Baby Raccoon require a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, both switches have similar forces, with the Baby Raccoon measuring at 63 grams and the Ink Red at 60 grams. This means that although the Baby Raccoon is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, both switches provide a medium level of resistance when fully pressed. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ink Red, as it requires less force to actuate, while those who prefer a more substantial and tactile feel may opt for the Baby Raccoon due to its higher actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, it is clear that the Baby Raccoon has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ink Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered more traditional, while the 3.6 mm distance of the Baby Raccoon falls on the shallower end. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. So, if you are looking for a more responsive switch, the Baby Raccoon would be the better option for you. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a deeper key press. In such cases, the Gateron Ink Red with its longer travel distance would be a more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on individual preferences regarding the depth and responsiveness of the keys.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red 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 Red for $7.35.
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
The subjective qualities of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch can be compared in terms of sound and feel.
Starting with sound, the Baby Raccoon switch is best described as resonant, marbly, and high-pitched. Typing on these switches will provide a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. The marbly adjective conveys the idea of a resonant, high-pitched, and clean sound, similar to tapping on a solid piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Ink Red switch is known for its neutral sound profile, which is moderate and suitable for most purposes. It is also described as chirpy, adding a unique acoustic signature to these switches.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Raccoon switch offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience. These switches provide smooth and buttery typing due to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials. The sensation is like gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys, with a spring-like or elastic feedback and a lively feel. The typing experience is pronounced, snappy, and reactive, creating an immersive sensation. Similarly, the Ink Red switch is described as silky, mild, and polished. It offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The feel is gentle and approachable, standing in a safe middle-ground zone.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch have distinctive subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon switch provides a marbly and high-pitched sound profile, while the Ink Red switch offers a neutral sound profile with a chirpy acoustic signature. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon switch is creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, while the Ink Red switch is silky, mild, and polished. Although these switches have different qualities, it is important to note that the sound and feel can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Overall, both options offer satisfying experiences, but with unique characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and immersive typing experience with a bright sound profile, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch may be the perfect choice for you. With its lengthened switch stems, these switches offer a marbly and resonant sound, resembling the tapping sound on a solid piece of marble or two billiard balls colliding. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon provides a creamy and invigorating typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing style and a switch that is effortless to type on, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be a great fit. With a lower actuation force and a crispy and clacky sound profile, the Ink Reds are perfect for those with a lighter touch. In terms of feel, they offer a silky and polished typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and Gateron Ink Red switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prioritize a unique and immersive typing experience with a brighter sound profile, the Baby Raccoon switches would be a great option. However, if you prefer a lighter touch and a smoother feel, the Ink Red switches may be more suitable. Consider your typing style and desired sound and feel, and make your decision based on what will provide you with the most enjoyable typing experience.
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