Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Kang White, both of which are linear switches. The Baby Raccoon is best known for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. These switches are often described as "marbley" and offer a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Kang White is renowned for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch, resulting in a dazzling typing sound. What sets it apart is its self-lubricating material, providing an unparalleled smoothness when typing. The Baby Raccoon is categorized as "resonant," "marbly," "high-pitched," "creamy," "bouncy," "invigorating," and "polished," while the Kang White is classified as "low-pitched" and "neutral." However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Kang White both feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal option for those seeking a distinct auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound and visual customization due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Kang White utilize nylon as the material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder materials, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, contributing to a smoother and quieter typing experience. Therefore, both switches provide a similar sound experience with their nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the importance of this material for the overall sound profile.
Although the top and bottom housings are different for the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Kang White, each housing material brings distinct qualities to the switches. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a significant impact when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the top housing predominantly influences the sound produced when releasing a key. This separation of housing materials allows for a comprehensive sound experience, where the nuances of the switch's sound profile can be appreciated both during key press and release. Therefore, while the Baby Raccoon and Kang White differ in housing materials, they both offer a well-rounded auditory experience by allocating specific qualities to each housing component.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and KTT Kang White linear switches, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the medium category, making them suitable for a wide range of users. The Gateron Baby Raccoon has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Kang White's 45 grams. This means that the Baby Raccoon requires a slightly firmer push to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Baby Raccoon is also slightly heavier at 63 grams compared to the Kang White's 58 grams. This indicates that the Baby Raccoon switch also provides a bit more resistance when fully pressed down. Overall, while the differences in force between the two switches are relatively minor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Kang White, while those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel may opt for the Gateron Baby Raccoon. Regardless of choice, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience within the medium force range.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch have different travel distances. The Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Kang White has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Baby Raccoon offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. The Kang White, with its longer travel distance, may be favored by those who prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke. While the Baby Raccoon offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Kang White, both switches provide a satisfactory range for users seeking a comfortable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) comes in at $5.50, whereas the KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99.
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 offers a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, resulting in a clean and sharp auditory experience. This switch can be described as "marbly," which means it is resonant, high-pitched, and clean, much like tapping on a solid piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using it at home or work. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience. The creaminess of this switch comes from the smooth and buttery sensation it provides, which can be attributed to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. Typing on this switch feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, as each keystroke melts into the switch with ease. Additionally, the Baby Raccoon switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, adding a lively feel and rebound when pressed. It can also be considered invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, resulting in an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the KTT Kang White switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and KTT Kang White linear switches offer different subjective qualities. The Baby Raccoon provides a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, paired with a creamy and bouncy typing experience. It offers a unique and immersive auditory and tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Kang White switch offers a low-pitched sound, along with an unknown feel. While these switches have their own distinct characteristics, it's important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can influence the overall experience. Ultimately, if you prefer a bright and resonant sound with a creamy and bouncy typing feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched sound and an unknown feel, the KTT Kang White might provide similar results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch may be the perfect choice for you. Known for its bright sound signature and crisp type feel, these switches offer a unique experience with their lengthened switch stems. The Baby Raccoon switches are often described as resonant, marbly, and high-pitched, creating a clean and sharp sound profile. In terms of feel, they are creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lower bottom out force, the KTT Kang White linear switch might be the better option. These switches are highly regarded for their poppy linear typing sound and unparalleled smoothness. With their self-lubricating material, you can expect a dazzling and mellow tone when typing. While not explicitly described in terms of feel, the Kang White switches offer a neutral typing experience suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Kang White switches depends on your personal preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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