Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) are two popular options to consider. The Baby Raccoon stands out with its distinct bright sound signature and a refreshing crisp typing experience, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. These extraordinary linear switches can be best described as "marbley" due to their unique characteristics. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) embodies smoothness and buttery goodness, making it ideal for both gaming and typing. With its low, "thocky" sound and satisfyingly thick resistance, this all-rounder linear switch has become the go-to option for budget enthusiasts. While these general pointers give an overview, let's dive deeper into the specifics to help you decide which switch is the best fit for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in terms of their housing materials. The Baby Raccoon features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) comes with a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Raccoon creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Baby Raccoon and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) feature a nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. With the bottom housing having a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches will provide a similar experience in terms of sound when the keys are pressed.
It's important to note that if a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. While the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when the key is released, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. Therefore, the Baby Raccoon's polycarbonate top housing will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound upon key release, while the nylon bottom housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) will result in a deeper and fuller sound upon key press.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Both switches have medium force requirements, making them suitable for a range of typing preferences. However, the Baby Raccoon switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 50 grams. This means that the Baby Raccoon switch requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, both switches are almost equal, with the Baby Raccoon requiring 63 grams and the Milky Yellow Pro requiring 62 grams to fully depress the key.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milky Yellow Pro switch may be a better choice as it has a slightly lighter actuation force. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or intense gaming sessions where finger fatigue might be a concern. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the Baby Raccoon switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a stronger push feel.
Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and Milky Yellow Pro switches are similar, the slight variations in force requirements may result in slightly different typing experiences. However, both switches fall within the medium force range, ensuring that users can expect a comfortable and responsive typing experience regardless of their choice.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have different travel distances. The Baby Raccoon has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. 4.0 mm is considered the more traditional travel distance, while 3.0 mm is the more shallow option. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, as it allows for quicker keystrokes during intense gameplay. On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to feel too abrupt, and prefer switches with a longer travel distance for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - if you prioritize responsiveness, the Baby Raccoon with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice, but if you prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 linear switch is characterized by a bright, resonant, and high-pitched sound profile. Typing on these switches provides a clean and sharp auditory experience, resembling the sound of tapping on a solid piece of marble or the collision of two billiard balls. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a low-pitched, bassy sound that is often described as thocky. The sound produced is deeper and richer, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. Both switches provide distinctive sound profiles, allowing users to choose based on their preference for higher-pitched or bassier tones.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is known for its creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished feel. Typing on these switches offers a smooth and buttery sensation, akin to gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. The switches provide a spring-like feedback and a lively feel, giving users a sense of rebound when the keys are pressed. The keys also have a pronounced feedback, offering a snappy and reactive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery and textured. These switches provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Some users may also appreciate the subtle texture that adds friction to the typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch offers a bright and resonant sound profile combined with a creamy and bouncy typing experience. It appeals to those who prefer a higher-pitched sound and a smooth, buttery feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a low-pitched, thocky sound and a buttery, textured typing experience. It is a popular choice for budget enthusiasts due to its all-around performance in both gaming and typing. The choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference for sound and feel. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Similar results can be achieved by selecting switches with similar sound and feel descriptors, considering the user's preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have their own unique qualities and characteristics that make them suitable for different preferences and needs.
If you are looking for a switch with a bright and resonant sound profile, the Baby Raccoon would be a great choice. It offers a clean and sharp sound with a higher pitch. The extended switch stems also contribute to a refreshing and crisp typing feel, resembling the sensation of tapping on solid marble or billiard balls colliding.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a low and "thocky" sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is the way to go. It delivers a deep and rich sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This switch is known for its smoothness and buttery goodness, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Raccoon is characterized by its creamy and polished sensation. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, making it feel like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The bouncy and invigorating feedback further enhances the typing sensation.
On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is described as buttery and textured. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, ensuring a seamless and uniform typing sensation. However, some users might prefer a slightly noticeable friction or texture while pressing the keys, which can be achieved with this switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches depends on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. Consider whether you prefer a bright and resonant sound or a low and "thocky" sound, as well as whether you prefer a creamy and polished feel or a buttery and textured feel. Both switches excel in their own ways, catering to different typing preferences and making them suitable for various uses, whether it be gaming or typing. So, choose based on what suits your individual preferences and typing style.
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