Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron Melodic offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out for its bright sound signature, crisp typing feel, and extended stem length, resulting in a "marbley" experience that is both invigorating and polished. On the other hand, the Melodic redefines the clicky switch category with smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, delivering a buttery and crunchy tactile feedback while maintaining a resonant sound. Each switch has its own set of qualities that appeal to different users, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on individual preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron Melodic feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. Similarly, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Overall, the choice of housing materials in both switches contributes to distinct sound profiles and typing experiences.
However, where the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Melodic differ lies in their housing materials. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) features a nylon bottom housing, the Melodic also utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. This discrepancy in bottom housing materials may result in variations in sound and feel when typing on these switches. The softer nature of nylon in the Baby Raccoon (V2) may provide a different typing experience compared to the use of polycarbonate in the Melodic, influencing the overall sound profile and feel of each switch.
In conclusion, although both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron Melodic share polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a sharp and clear sound profile, their differing bottom housing materials, nylon versus polycarbonate, may impact the overall typing experience. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of each switch allows for a balance of qualities in sound and feel, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing affects the sound upon key release. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a medium resistance level. In comparison, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 60 grams, also falling into the medium resistance category. In terms of weight, the Baby Raccoon may be considered slightly lighter due to its lower bottom out force. Some users may prefer the Baby Raccoon for longer typing sessions or gaming, as the lighter weight can help reduce fatigue. However, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Melodic switch with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, both switches offer medium resistance levels, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Melodic clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance than the Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Baby Raccoon (V2) switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Melodic clicky switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is known for its resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, providing users with a bright and crisp auditory experience. The Gateron Melodic clicky switch, on the other hand, offers a resonant and crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. When it comes to feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience, characterized by smoothness, bounce-back, feedback, and reduced friction. Similarly, the Gateron Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, providing users with a smooth and immersive typing sensation.
Overall, both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch offers a bright and crisp sound with a creamy and bouncy typing feel, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch provides a resonant sound with a buttery typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a linear switch with a marbly sound or a clicky switch with a crunchy sound, you can choose the one that aligns with your preferences for both sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience and provide a satisfying tactile and auditory feedback.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch or the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile with a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, or polished typing experience, the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a resonant, crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating typing sensation, the Gateron Melodic might be more suited to your taste. Consider the characteristics of each switch carefully and choose based on what will enhance your typing experience the most. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences for sound and feel.
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