Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is known for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. Described as 'marbley', these linear switches provide a resonant and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw stands out for its unique material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon for a creamy yet lightweight feel. These switches arrive unlubricated, offering a textured feel and serving as an excellent starting point for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches. While both switches have their own strengths, such as the Baby Raccoon's vibrant sound and the Keygeek Raw's unique material blend, it's essential to delve deeper into their specific qualities to determine the best fit for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw, we see some key differences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw uses a Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, providing a different sound profile exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be preferred for those looking for a clear and resonant sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Baby Raccoon (V2) utilizes a nylon material, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw features a UMPE & Si blend for its bottom housing, offering yet another exclusive sound profile. The choice between nylon and the Keygeek Raw blend will ultimately come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Overall, while the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles, the key difference lies in the choice of polycarbonate versus the Keygeek Raw blend for the top housing, and nylon versus the UMPE & Si blend for the bottom housing. Choosing between these switches will involve considering the specific sound qualities desired in typing experience, as well as any preferences for exclusive blends or materials. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality materials that cater to a variety of preferences in keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, it is clear that there are some differences between the two. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Keygeek Raw has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 57.5 grams. In terms of weight, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. Some users may prefer the Baby Raccoon (V2) for its slightly heavier feel, which can provide a more substantial typing experience. However, for those who prefer a lighter touch, the Keygeek Raw may be the better option. Both switches offer a medium level of force, so users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, particularly gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant to most users, as they both fall within the shorter end of the spectrum. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for travel distance - with the Keygeek Raw offering a slightly shorter travel distance and the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) providing a slightly longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 is known for its resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound signature, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it offers a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile suitable for various purposes. The sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard they are mounted on and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience. These switches provide a smooth and buttery feeling with spring-like feedback and a refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch is characterized by a textured, mild, and subtle feel. These switches have noticeable friction when pressed, offering a more gentle typing experience with a gentle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch excels in providing a bright, marbly sound signature and a creamy, bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch stands out for its unique material blend and textured, mild feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding sound profile, typing feel, and the overall typing experience desired by the user. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will get a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) is a great choice for a bright sound signature, a crisp typing feel, and a resonant, marbly sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a creamy yet lightweight switch, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch with a unique material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon may be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound profile, typing feel, or material composition.
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