Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches provide unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out for its bright sound signature and crisp type feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. Described as 'marbly', it offers a variety of qualities such as being resonant, high-pitched, and bouncy. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus features a medium weight and a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. While the Baby Raccoon may be favored for its invigorating and polished typing experience, the Lotus offers a delightful and satisfying feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Lotus both play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound, the Lotus opts for a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Baby Raccoon (V2) allows for a more resonant and clear sound, especially beneficial for those utilizing RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Lotus absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
Both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Lotus incorporate nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile as a result of the material's softer composition. The bottom housing of a switch has a considerable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, highlighting the importance of the housing material in overall typing experience. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, the Lotus features both top and bottom housings made of nylon. This difference in housing materials can lead to variations in sound and feel between the two switches.
In summary, the choice of housing material, whether it be polycarbonate or nylon, greatly impacts the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Baby Raccoon (V2) creates a sharper and clearer sound, contrasting with the deeper and fuller sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Lotus. However, both switches share a commonality in utilizing nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a similar deep and full sound experience when typing on either switch. Ultimately, the materials chosen for the housing of a switch can significantly influence its sound profile and overall typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it is clear that the Lotus is lighter in both aspects. The Baby Raccoon has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it more medium in terms of weight. On the other hand, the Lotus boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, giving it a lighter and potentially smoother typing experience. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the lighter weight of the Lotus may be more appealing to those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. Those who prefer a more abrupt feel may opt for the Baby Raccoon, while those who enjoy a slightly deeper press may lean towards the Lotus. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience with minimal differences in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience reminiscent of tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of sound. Keep in mind that the sound of 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 (V2) is described as having a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with spring-like feedback and a refined finish for reduced friction. While the HMX Lotus linear switch does not have specific feel descriptors provided, it is important to note that the feel of a switch is subjective and can vary based on personal preference and typing style.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a bright, resonant sound profile and a crisp, marbly feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you are looking for a switch with a medium weight and a super bouncy feeling that makes every keystroke a delight, the HMX Lotus linear switch could also be a great option. Keep in mind that individual preferences play a significant role in selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a bright, resonant sound with a crisp typing feel, then the Baby Raccoon (V2) might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy, invigorating typing experience, then the HMX Lotus linear switch could be more to your liking. Consider the sound profile and feel descriptions provided for each switch to help you determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences. In the end, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choose wisely based on what matters most to you.
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