Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 both present unique offerings for typists and gamers alike, despite being categorized as linear switches. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out with its remarkable "marbley" typing experience, characterized by a bright sound signature and a refreshingly crisp feel, which is enhanced by its lengthened switch stems—0.64mm longer than standard. This distinctive design cultivates a vibrant and invigorating typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy notable auditory and tactile feedback. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 provides a smoother, more subtle typing experience, expertly balancing lightness with a satisfying bottom-out feel, thanks in part to its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble. This makes the Matcha Latte an excellent choice for users seeking premium linear performance without breaking the bank. While both switches cater to enthusiasts looking for linear feel, they embody contrasting characteristics that may appeal 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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 (V2) and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches prominently feature distinct materials in their top housings, which results in differing sound profiles and overall aesthetics. The Baby Raccoon (V2) employs a polycarbonate top housing, a material heralded for its rigidity and clarity. This choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched sound, making it an excellent complement for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 opts for POK (polyketone), a material known for its smoothness and durability. While POK lends itself to a smooth, clackier sound, its properties differ from polycarbonate in that it isn’t inherently built for light transmission, thus impacting the aesthetic appeal associated with backlighting.
When we look at the bottom housings of both switches, both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Matcha Latte V2 utilize nylon, a classic material well-regarded in the keyboard community. Nylon contributes to a deeper, fuller sound, absorbing more vibrations compared to its harder plastic counterparts. As a result, both switches share the same auditory characteristic in terms of bottom-out sound, ensuring a muted and rounder acoustic experience even though they differ in their top housing construction. The use of nylon in both bottoms creates a level of consistency in sound between the two switches, enhancing the collaboration between their respective top materials.
Ultimately, the combination of the different top housing materials with identical nylon bottoms means that each switch maintains unique sound profiles while offering commonalities in their deeper, fuller audio experiences. Users can expect a pronounced difference when engaging the top of the switches—characterized by either the crispness from the polycarbonate or the smoothness from POK—while enjoying a consistent deep tone at bottom-out from the nylon. This blending of materials allows for an intriguing exploration of textures and sound dimensions in both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Matcha Latte V2, affirming how different combinations can lead to distinct yet cohesive results in tactile experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches, there are notable differences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium force switch. This provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a firmer push. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which is ideal for those who value extended typing sessions without fatigue. However, its bottom out force remains unknown, leaving some uncertainty about how it feels when pressed fully down. Overall, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is the heavier option, offering a more tactile response, while the Matcha Latte V2 caters to those seeking a lighter touch. If the bottom out force were similar, users would likely experience comparable keystroke responses, but given the uncertainty with the Matcha Latte V2, it's unclear how those two would feel in practice.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, resulting in identical performance when it comes to the distance each switch travels from the top to the bottom. Since both switches share the same travel distance, users can expect a similar tactile experience regardless of which switch they choose. This equivalence in travel distance means that both switches will deliver consistent feedback and response when pressing down on the keys, making them apt for comparable applications in typing or gaming scenarios.
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 Huano Matcha Latte V2 comes in at $3.99.
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 characterized by a bright and resonant auditory profile that delivers a sharp and clean typing experience. The sound typifies a high-pitched quality, evoking the image of marbly surfaces thanks to its crisp clarity. This means that when you type, you’ll hear a pleasant, almost musical sound that encapsulates the unique characteristics of the switch. On the other hand, the Huano Matcha Latte V2’s sound profile is not explicitly defined, indicating that it may not have the same distinctive auditory signatures as the Baby Raccoon switches. However, it's important to note that the sound can vary significantly depending on the keycaps and keyboard used, so both switches can deliver satisfying auditory results in their own right.
Regarding feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a typing experience laden with creamy smoothness and buoyant feedback. This is complemented by the invigorating sensation that accompanies each keystroke, thanks to the switch's polished finish and lively spring response. Users can expect a snappy and elastic feel that makes typing enjoyable and engaging. In contrast, there is no detailed description available for the feel of the Matcha Latte V2 switches. However, their factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble suggest a smooth typing experience, albeit without specific descriptors to characterize their tactile sensation. Therefore, while the Baby Raccoon excels in a lively and rich tactile profile, the Matcha Latte V2 may still offer satisfactory smoothness.
Combining all available information, it’s clear that the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) excels in both sound and feel, providing a bright auditory experience with a lively and creamy typing sensation. In contrast, the Huano Matcha Latte V2's qualities remain largely undefined, but its factory lubrication hints at a smooth performance. For newcomers exploring different linear switches, the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers clear advantages, especially in sound and tactile experience, while the Matcha Latte V2 presents an enigmatic yet potentially enjoyable alternative. Both can be appealing, but your choice ultimately will depend on what specific qualities you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In summary, selecting between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience and sound. If you appreciate a more vibrant auditory experience and a unique typing feel characterized by a marbley sensation, vibrant sound, and a slightly firm bottom-out, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is likely the better choice for you. Its longer stems provide a distinctive typing experience that can be invigorating and pleasant for those who enjoy a tangible feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more subtle typing experience that emphasizes a balance between lightness and solid feel, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent option. Its premium linear performance, complete with generous factory lubrication and low stem wobble, is ideal for those who prioritize a quieter workspace and a plush typing experience. By understanding these differences, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your typing style, whether you prefer vibrancy and energy over a smooth and refined feel.
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