Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the PH Studio Milk Tea both stand out as linear options with unique characteristics. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is renowned for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. This results in a distinctive "marbley" sensation, making it appealing for those seeking a resonant and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch offers a different auditory experience with a high-pitched sound that is balanced by a muted essence, ideal for users looking for a polished and silky typing experience. With a focus on prolonged typing comfort, the Milk Tea switch stands out for its ease of use and effortless keystrokes. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
While both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and PH Studio Milk Tea switches have unique housing materials, they differ in their top housing material. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Milk Tea utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. The difference in top housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound experience of the switches.
On the other hand, both switches share a nylon bottom housing material, which adds a deeper and fuller sound profile to typing. Nylon is known for its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. While the top housing material may impact the sound when pressing down on a key, the bottom housing material contributes to the bottom-out sound and overall typing experience. Despite these differences, the switches' shared nylon bottom housing material provides an element of consistency in the sound and feel of typing on both switches.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and PH Studio Milk Tea switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The choice between a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound or a POM top housing for a deeper sound can significantly impact the overall typing experience. However, the shared nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent, fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials highlight the unique characteristics of each switch while also showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, the Baby Raccoon (V2) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Milk Tea has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams. The Baby Raccoon (V2) provides a more medium resistance compared to the light resistance of the Milk Tea. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the better choice due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, those seeking a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time may find the Milk Tea more suitable. Both switches provide different levels of forces, catering to varying preferences for typing or gaming activities.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from top to bottom. Both switches provide a consistent tactile feel and response due to their identical travel distances. Therefore, you can expect to get similar typing experiences and feedback from both switches, making them equally reliable options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch provides a resonant and marbly sound profile, offering a higher-pitched and clean auditory experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch presents a clacky and marbly sound, with a balance between sharpness and muted tones. Both switches offer a high-pitched sound when pressed, catering to those who prefer crisp and bright sound profiles during typing sessions. It is essential to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) is noted for its creamy and bouncy typing experience, offering a smooth and elastic feedback sensation. This translates to a buttery and invigorating typing feel, providing ease and rebound when keys are pressed. Conversely, the PH Studio Milk Tea switch is described as polished and silky, ensuring a refined and sleek typing experience with minimal friction and smooth key travel. Users can expect enhanced smoothness and reduced resistance when engaging with these switches.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon excels in providing a bright and marbly sound along with a creamy and bouncy typing feel, while the Milk Tea switch delivers a balance between clacky and marbly sounds and a polished and silky typing experience. So, if you are looking for a switch that provides a resonant and marbly sound paired with a creamy and bouncy feel, the Baby Raccoon would be a suitable choice. Similarly, if a clacky and polished sound with a silky and polished typing feel is more to your liking, the Milk Tea switch would be your ideal companion. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring a satisfying experience for newcomers exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom-out force of 63 grams and a bright, resonant, marbly sound profile, along with a creamy, bouncy, invigorating typing feel, then the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force of 43.5 grams and a high-pitched clacky sound profile, along with a polished, silky typing feel, then the Milk Tea switch would suit your needs better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound characteristics.
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