Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Outemu Lime (V3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Outemu Lime (V3) 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 Outemu Lime. The Baby Raccoon is a linear switch that is best known for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing feel. These switches stand out with their lengthened switch stems, which are 0.64mm longer than typical stems. The result is a unique and marbly experience that sets them apart. On the other hand, the Lime switches are tactile and offer a feather-light typing experience with a touch of tactility. These switches are incredibly unique, being both lightweight and silenced, making them perfect for those who seek a gentler typing experience. While these general descriptions give you a starting point, it's important to dive in deeper and explore the specific characteristics of each switch to determine the best fit for your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Outemu Lime differ in terms of their housing materials. The Baby Raccoon features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Lime utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate housing of the Baby Raccoon creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, thanks to its stiffness. This allows for a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Alternatively, the nylon top housing of the Lime produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer plastic nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer advantages for those interested in using RGB lighting, as the clear polycarbonate and translucent nature of nylon accommodate lighting effects effectively.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Baby Raccoon and the Lime adopt a nylon material. This shared feature creates similarities between the two switches. The nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributing to the softness of the plastic that absorbs more sound. Consequently, typing on both switches will result in a similar experience characterized by the dulled and rounded sound that nylon brings. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the tactile feedback experienced when pressing down on the keys. Therefore, users can expect a consistent typing experience in this aspect regardless of whether they choose the Baby Raccoon or the Lime.
Different housing materials in the top and bottom of a switch affect the overall sound and feel of the keys. While the bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. With the Baby Raccoon's polycarbonate top housing, users can enjoy a sharper and crisper sound when letting go of a key, thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Lime may contribute to a softer sound upon key release, attributing to the absorbent nature of nylon. Thus, the top housing material influences the final touch, providing a distinctive auditory experience depending on the chosen switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it becomes evident that these switches offer different experiences. The Baby Raccoon has a medium actuation force of 55 grams, requiring a slightly heavier push to trigger a keystroke compared to the Lime, which has a light actuation force of 35 grams. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Baby Raccoon requires a force of 63 grams, while the Lime requires a lighter force of 45 grams. Therefore, the Baby Raccoon provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, whereas the Lime offers a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Lime would be the preferred choice, while those seeking a stronger push feel may find the Baby Raccoon more satisfying.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm and are suitable for those who prioritize faster response times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker reactions. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the longer travel distance of the Baby Raccoon switch more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference for responsiveness or a deeper keypress 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 Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40.
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 Baby Raccoon and the Lime switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon is best known for its bright sound signature and resonant sound profile. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched and clean sound experience. The sound is described as marbley, reminiscent of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Lime switches have a more neutral sound profile. They produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches, making them suitable for those who prefer a muted typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon switches are characterized as creamy and invigorating, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation. The keystrokes feel silky, as if effortlessly gliding across the keys. These switches also provide a bouncy feedback, giving a spring-like or elastic sensation when pressed. On the other hand, the Lime switches offer a feathery and mild typing experience. They are exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and strain during extended typing sessions. The feel of these switches is gentle and subtle, maintaining a light typing feel without being feather-light.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switches and the Outemu Lime tactile switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon switches have a resonant sound profile with a bright and clean sound, while the Lime switches have a more neutral and muted sound. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon switches offer a creamy and invigorating typing experience with a bouncy feedback, while the Lime switches provide a feathery and mild typing feel. These switches cater to different preferences, and choosing between them depends on the desired sound and feel experience. However, if you prefer a muted sound and a light typing feel, both switches can provide similar results with their polished finishes and reduced friction during key travel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force and a switch that provides a bright sound signature with a refreshingly crisp typing experience, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is the ideal choice. Its lengthened switch stems give it a unique "marbley" feel, making each keystroke satisfyingly solid. The Baby Raccoon is also known for its resonant, high-pitched sound profile, which creates an immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and want a switch that combines tactility with a feathery light typing experience, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is perfect for you. These switches are lightweight and silenced, offering a gentle typing experience with just a touch of tactility. The Lime switches have a moderate sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a medium bottom out force and a crisp typing experience with a bright sound, go for the Baby Raccoon. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and want a tactile switch with a feather-light feel and a more muted sound, the Lime is the way to go.
In closing, both switches offer unique qualities and can enhance your typing experience based on your individual preferences. Whether you prioritize brightness and crispness or prefer a lighter, more tactile feel, you can't go wrong with either the Gateron Baby Raccoon or the Outemu Lime.
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