Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Durock Koala. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is a linear switch known for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, attributed to its lengthened switch stems. On the other hand, the Durock Koala is a tactile switch that strikes a balance between providing a satisfying keystroke without being too heavy-handed, thanks to its stepped tactility. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) boasts a 'resonant' and 'marbly' feel, the Koala is characterized by a 'polished' and 'accented' sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
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 spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Durock Koala both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as the light can shine through the housing effectively. The similarities between the top housing materials of these switches suggest that users can expect a similar sound experience when using either the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) or the Durock Koala.
In contrast, the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Durock Koala have different bottom housing materials, with the Baby Raccoon featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Koala also utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the sharper sound created by polycarbonate. Despite the difference in bottom housing materials, both switches offer a typing experience with unique sound characteristics that are influenced by the properties of the nylon material.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the combination of different housing materials in a switch can create a varied typing experience, with the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Durock Koala offering unique sound profiles based on their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it is evident that the Baby Raccoon is on the lighter side with an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Koala is slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 67 grams. Both switches fall within the medium force range for actuation, but the Koala tips towards medium-heavy when it comes to bottom out force. The actuation force for the Koala is unknown, but despite this, it is safe to say that it would likely provide a tactile typing experience given its tactile nature, compared to the smooth linear feel of the Baby Raccoon. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference regarding typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Durock Koala tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Baby Raccoon switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Koala switch may provide a more satisfying and hearty feel when typing. Both switches offer a different typing experience, so choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance. Ultimately, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Durock Koala switches provide users with varying travel distances to cater to their individual typing needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 (V2) linear switch is known for its resonant, marbly, and high-pitched characteristics, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. While the Baby Raccoon delivers a higher-pitched, immersive sound, the Koala provides a moderate sound suitable for various purposes. Keep in mind that the sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, offering a smooth, springy, responsive, and refined typing experience. Conversely, the Durock Koala tactile switch is polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, providing a sleek, medium tactile sensation with noticeable tactility that is not overpowering. The stepped design of the Koala allows for a more nuanced keystroke compared to the more uniform feel of the Baby Raccoon.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities. The Baby Raccoon excels in delivering a resonant, marbly sound and a creamy, bouncy feel, while the Koala provides a lower-pitched, neutral sound and a polished, accented tactile experience. Selecting between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, ensuring that both switches cater to different user preferences for an enhanced mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when selecting between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a bright, crisp feel with a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, along with a creamy and bouncy typing sensation, then the Baby Raccoon (V2) might be the best fit for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a stepped tactility with a neutral and low-pitched sound profile, along with a polished and accented typing sensation, then the Durock Koala could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the specific characteristics that you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
