Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often seek out options that can elevate their typing experience, and two notable contenders in the linear switch category are the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Macchiato. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out with its bright sound signature and a refreshingly crisp typing feel, thanks to its unique, lengthened switch stem that results in a marbley sensation under the fingers. Users who favor a switch that offers a lively, resonant experience will find the Baby Raccoon (V2) particularly appealing. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, produced by YG Studio, is tailored for those who crave a silky smooth and bright typing experience, allowing for fluid keystrokes that can enhance overall comfort during long typing sessions. While both switches cater to linear switch aficionados, they each bring distinct qualities to the table that may align differently with user 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
42g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and HMX Macchiato switches exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, allowing for a more resonant acoustic output. In contrast, the Macchiato employs a nylon top housing, known for its softer characteristics that produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. The choice of nylon dampens sound more effectively than polycarbonate, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. This fundamental difference in materials creates distinct acoustic signatures for each switch, appealing to varying preferences among users.
Both switches, however, share a commonality in their bottom housing construction, utilizing nylon, which enhances the overall sound profile of each switch. The presence of nylon in the Baby Raccoon (V2) and Macchiato provides that deeper sound characteristic, allowing for a more absorbed and mellow bottom-out feel when pressed. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures that while the top housings may yield different auditory experiences, the foundational qualities instilled by the nylon bottom will contribute positively to the rhythm and feel during keystrokes. As such, elements like user preference for sound signature may be influenced more heavily by the top housing than the bottom.
In summary, both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Macchiato utilize a combination of polycarbonate and nylon, respectively for their top housings while both employing nylon for the bottom housings. This dual-material approach allows for a distinct separation of acoustic qualities; the polycarbonate top of the Baby Raccoon delivers a high-pitched sound upon release, while the nylon top of the Macchiato produces a fuller, richer tone. The nylon bottoms in both switches provide a uniformity of sound absorbency, which can lead to a balanced typing experience across the board. Users can expect a unique interaction with each switch based on these material distinctions, ultimately guiding their choice based on sound and tactile feedback preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Macchiato linear switches, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom-out forces. The Baby Raccoon (V2) requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom-out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight switch that offers a more substantial typing experience, well-suited for users who appreciate a stronger push feel. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of only 42 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams. This lighter weight can facilitate longer typing sessions and more extended gaming periods for users who prefer minimal effort while typing. The differences in force result in distinct user experiences, with the Baby Raccoon appealing to those looking for a firmer touch and the Macchiato catering to those who favor ease and comfort. Overall, if you're seeking a lighter feel, the Macchiato is the clear choice, while the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, the Baby Raccoon measures at 3.6 mm, while the Macchiato features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive feel. In contrast, the Macchiato, with its longer travel distance, can provide a more substantial keypress experience, often preferred by those who enjoy a deeper typing depth. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance: whether you prioritize the speed and responsiveness of the shorter Baby Raccoon or the more pronounced feedback of the longer Macchiato.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) switches definitely stand out with their lively audio profile. These switches produce a bright, resonant sound that is both sharp and clean, reminiscent of high-pitched notes that create an immersive typing experience. This aligns with their "marbly" characteristic, evoking the crispness of striking billiard balls or tapping on polished marble. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato's sound profile is less defined in the available information, but it is also noted for a bright sound profile, which suggests that it offers a similarly pleasant auditory experience, though specifics such as pitch or resonance remain unspecified.
In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) switches give users a creamy, bouncy, and invigorating typing experience. The combination of smooth, polished key travel and a lively bounce back makes typing on these switches engaging and enjoyable, providing a satisfying tactile feedback with each keystroke. This multi-dimensional feel is enhanced by their factory lubrication and specific material choices, promoting a seamless glide across the keys. On the other hand, while there's no detailed description available for the feel of the HMX Macchiato switches, the emphasis on a silky smooth typing experience suggests they too aim for that tactile pleasure, making typing an effortless task, albeit without the further nuanced qualities described for the Raccoons.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and HMX Macchiato linear switches offer qualities that appeal to enthusiasts seeking a bright auditory experience. The Raccoons particularly excel in their sound profile and rich, multi-faceted typing feel, while the Macchiatos promise smoothness yet leave several specifics unknown. Ultimately, while you can expect a somewhat similar sweet spot in sound quality from both, the tactile experience distinctly favors the Baby Raccoon with its invigorating characteristics. Experimenting with both switches could offer unique insights into personal preferences, particularly as each type will react differently with various keyboard configurations and keycap choices.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Macchiato linear switches, consider your typing preferences and style. If you enjoy a medium actuation force coupled with a bright, resonant sound and a typing experience that feels intensely creamy and invigorating, the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be an excellent choice. Its unique sound profile and lengthened switch stems contribute to a marbly sensation, which can enhance your typing experience, especially for those who appreciate feedback in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter feel with a silky smooth typing experience that promotes a subtle auditory profile, the HMX Macchiato linear switch may be more to your liking. The Macchiato is designed for all-day typing comfort and would suit those who find heavier switches tiring or cumbersome. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and personal sound preference—whether you want the captivating resonance of the Baby Raccoon or the gentle fluidity of the Macchiato will greatly influence your experience at the keyboard.
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