Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gazzew LT offer unique experiences for enthusiasts seeking exceptional typing sensations. The Baby Raccoon switches are known for their bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp type feel, thanks to their lengthened switch stems. Their extraordinary linear switches possess a marbley quality, characterized by a resonant, marbly, high-pitched, creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished nature. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switches are alluring with their enticing lilac hue, offering an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness. Typing on these switches provides a seamless glide with every keystroke, and they are categorized as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gazzew LT differ in terms of their housing materials. The Baby Raccoon features a polycarbonate top housing, while the LT utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Raccoon creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when the key is released. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend top housing of the LT, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Both materials have distinct qualities that contribute to the overall sound experience when typing.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Baby Raccoon incorporates a nylon material, which tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when the key hits the bottom. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT features a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, similar to the top housing material. This soft plastic blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. While the materials differ, both the nylon bottom housing of the Baby Raccoon and the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the LT enhance the sound characteristics of their respective switches.
Despite their differences, the impact of the housing materials is split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either the Baby Raccoon or the LT, the qualities of the bottom housing become prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the materials may differ, there are similarities in terms of how the sound profiles are influenced by the housing materials of both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gazzew LT.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, it is important to consider weight as a deciding factor. The Baby Raccoon has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it a lighter option. This lighter actuation force allows for longer typing periods, making it suitable for extended work or gaming sessions. The Baby Raccoon also has a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is still within the medium range. On the other hand, the LT's actuation force is unavailable, so it is unclear how it compares to the Baby Raccoon in terms of lightness or heaviness. However, the LT does have a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Baby Raccoon. For those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the higher bottom out force of the LT may be preferable. In summary, while the actuation force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon is lighter, the Gazzew LT has a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing different options for different typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, we can see that the Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the LT has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both of these switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance.
For gamers or those seeking faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the LT switch may be preferable. The shorter distance allows for quicker keystrokes and potentially improved gaming performance. On the other hand, individuals who value a more substantial keypress experience may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Baby Raccoon switch, as it provides a deeper and more deliberate keystroke.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. Those seeking a more responsive and nimble keystroke may opt for the LT switch, while those who enjoy a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke may lean towards the Baby Raccoon switch. Whichever option is chosen, both switches offer a departure from the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, providing users with a unique typing or gaming 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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50.
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 Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is known for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp type feel. When typing on these switches, you can expect a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean, sharp, and often described as marbly, similar to tapping on a solid piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon switches offer a creamy and invigorating typing experience. They provide a smooth and buttery sensation, like gliding across the keys effortlessly, while also offering a bouncy and lively feel with spring-like feedback. The switch stems of the Baby Raccoon are longer than typical stems, contributing to the unique feel and sound of these switches.
On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch offers a different auditory and tactile experience. Typing on the LT switches provides an auditory symphony of deep and resonant thockiness. The sound profile is characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The LT switches are also described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, similar to a soft knock or a deep thud. Unfortunately, specific information about the feel of the LT switches is not provided, so it's unclear how they compare in terms of tactile feedback and smoothness.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and Gazzew LT switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon switches provide a resonant, high-pitched, and marbly sound profile, accompanied by a creamy and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the LT switches offer a deep, resonant, and bassy sound profile, characterized by a thocky sensation when typing. While more information about the LT switches' feel is needed, it is clear that both switches have their unique tonal and tactile characteristics. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose either switch to achieve similar results in terms of overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium bottom out force and a bright sound signature, then the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch may be your best choice. These switches are characterized by a refreshing crisp feel and a resonant, marbly sound profile. They offer a medium bottom out force of 63 grams and have lengthened switch stems for a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep, resonant thockiness, then the Gazzew LT linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams and provide a seamless glide with every keystroke. While the sound and feel characteristics of the LT are not explicitly described, they are known for their enticing lilac color and the symphony of deep, resonant thockiness they offer. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and Gazzew LT switches depends on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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