Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Cherry MX Purple RGB can significantly affect your typing experience. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is celebrated for its unique linear feel, offering a distinctively bright sound profile and a marbly sensation that combines enhanced bounce and polish. Its longer switch stems contribute to a refreshed typing experience, making it appealing for those who prioritize smooth keystrokes without tactile interruptions. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB boasts a refined tactile feedback characterized by a short, medium-strength bump, designed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses. This tactile nature can enhance typing accuracy and provide satisfying feedback for typists who enjoy a more engaged interaction with their keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches lies in your personal preference for smooth linear progression versus tactile feedback; 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
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 (V2) and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches differ significantly in their top housing materials, which influences not only the aesthetic but also the auditory experience when typing. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This quality is particularly beneficial for users who engage RGB lighting in their keyboards, as the polycarbonate allows light to pass through effectively, enhancing the visual presentation. In contrast, the MX Purple RGB utilizes a nylon top housing, which absorbs sound rather than amplifying it. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, yielding a duller experience compared to the clarity provided by polycarbonate. Hence, if a user prefers sharper auditory feedback combined with RGB visibility, the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be the more suitable choice.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Cherry MX Purple RGB utilize nylon, creating a more profound similarity between the two despite their differences in top housing. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and more rounded sound when typing, owing to its ability to absorb sound better than the stiffer materials. This characteristic allows both switches to provide a satisfying tactile feedback and auditory experience, albeit in different contexts; the MX Purple RGB maintains a uniform sound depth, while the Baby Raccoon (V2) may present a contrast between the sharper sound of the top and the fuller sound of the bottom.
Ultimately, the amalgamation of differing materials results in a unique typing experience for each switch. If a user is seeking a more versatile auditory profile, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a blend of crisper upper sounds and deeper lower-bounds due to its differing top and bottom materials. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB, with its consistent nylon housing for both top and bottom, offers a singularly fuller sound experience. Users can expect an engaging experience from both switches; the key difference lies in the specific sound qualities that are emphasized by the materials chosen for the top and bottom housings. Whether through crisper notes with the Baby Raccoon or the full enveloping sound of the MX Purple RGB, both switches provide their unique acoustic signatures.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch to the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, we see notable differences in their actuation force. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the MX Purple RGB is lighter at 45 grams. This difference indicates that users of the Baby Raccoon switch may experience a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier force required, which might appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel when typing or gaming. Additionally, the Baby Raccoon has a bottom out force of 63 grams, giving it a distinct tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the bottom out force for the MX Purple RGB is unknown, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons for this aspect. Ultimately, those looking for a lighter switch for extended use may prefer the MX Purple RGB, while users who enjoy a firmer touch may gravitate towards the Baby Raccoon (V2).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, it is evident that the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference in travel distance reflects the preferences of different users; gamers might favor the Baby Raccoon (V2) for its shorter travel, allowing for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keystroke may opt for the Cherry MX Purple RGB due to its deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sensitivity and feedback during use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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) distinguishes itself with a distinctly resonant and marbly auditory profile. Typing on these switches produces a higher-pitched sound that is sharp and clean, reminiscent of the sound of billiard balls colliding or tapping on a piece of marble. This bright sound adds an immersive element to the typing experience, making it satisfying for users who enjoy a lively acoustic feedback. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches do not possess a specific sound profile described in the provided material, which means their acoustic characteristics may not offer the same engaging quality as the Baby Raccoon. However, it's essential to note that the overall sound will be influenced by the choice of keyboard construction, including the board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers an array of enjoyable tactile sensations. With descriptors such as creamy and bouncy, these switches provide a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels almost effortless, akin to gliding your fingers over the keys. Their invigorating nature offers pronounced feedback, allowing for a lively typing experience characterized by a combination of snappiness and a slight elastic rebound. This refined interaction creates a polished and highly engaging feel for users. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, however, lack specific descriptions regarding their feel, leaving an unknown variable for those considering this type. Therefore, while the Baby Raccoon provides a complete tactile profile, the MX Purple RGB could potentially feel different based on user preference and undetermined attributes.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) excels in both sound and feel, offering a crisp and bright auditory experience combined with a creamy, bouncy, and invigorating typing sensation. The Cherry MX Purple RGB, while respected for its tactile characteristics, lacks specified sensory descriptors, making it challenging to compare directly to the Baby Raccoon. For users seeking a delightful auditory and tactile experience, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is a standout option, while the MX Purple RGB may be a more understated choice that leaves some qualities open to interpretation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and use cases. If you're seeking a smooth, creamy, and invigorating typing experience with a bright, resonant sound profile that enhances the auditory pleasure of your keystrokes, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is a fitting choice. Its medium 63-gram actuation force offers a balanced feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy rapid typing or gaming sessions where you prefer a linear switch without the distraction of a tactile bump. On the other hand, if you appreciate a refined tactile feedback that gives you a satisfying bump with each key press, facilitating a more deliberate typing style, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch would be your go-to. This switch excels in providing a tactile yet not overly heavy experience that appeals to typists who value feedback without compromising comfort. Thus, consider what resonates with your typing style—immersive auditory feedback with the Baby Raccoon (V2) or a tactile response with the Cherry MX Purple RGB—for the best mechanical keyboard experience tailored to your needs.
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