Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Haimu Orange Sea

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Haimu Orange Sea are two compelling linear options that cater to different typing preferences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out with its unique qualities, characterized by a bright sound signature and a refreshingly crisp feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. This results in a typing experience that feels "marbley," evoking a sense of bounce and smoothness that can invigorate both gaming and typing sessions. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea boasts an impeccably smooth typing experience with a more neutral sound profile, making it an ideal choice for users who prefer a quieter environment without sacrificing performance. While the Baby Raccoon offers the excitement of a high-pitched resonance, the Orange Sea focuses on delivering consistent smoothness. Both switches have their merits depending on personal preference, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.

By the numbers

Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) Linear

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$5.50 per 10

$2.79 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Haimu Orange Sea utilize similar materials for their top and bottom housings, which are made of polycarbonate and nylon, respectively. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches is noted for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic stems from polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a clear resonance that enhances audio clarity. Additionally, the transparent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly suitable for RGB lighting setups, as it allows light to pass through effectively, creating a visually appealing glow. As both switches feature these identical materials in the top housing, users can expect a somewhat parallel auditory experience when typing, characterized by that crispness offered by polycarbonate.

When examining the bottom housings, both the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Orange Sea employ nylon, a classic and well-regarded material in the mechanical keyboard community. Nylon is known for its softer quality, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when keys are pressed. This soft texture absorbs more sound compared to harder materials, yielding a sound that is typically more muted and rounder with each keystroke. Since the bottom housing is crucial in determining the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, both switches will deliver a satisfying experience in this regard due to their use of nylon. The similarities in bottom housing material mean that users will likely notice comparable auditory depth in both switches.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both switches means that while there are specific qualities unique to each housing type, the overall performance in terms of sound profile and feel will show significant overlap. The polycarbonate top housing enhances clarity and resonance, while the nylon bottom housing provides a softer sound that absorbs some of that brightness. Thus, users can expect a consistent auditory experience across both switches, rooted in the materials that shape their functionality. While the nuances may vary, the proverbial blend of sound qualities will remain relatively uniform, allowing typists and gamers alike to draw similar experiences from both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and Haimu Orange Sea switches.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight option that provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea features a much lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This significant difference makes the Orange Sea more suitable for those who prioritize longer typing sessions and lighter key presses, as it requires less effort to actuate and bottom out. Therefore, while the Baby Raccoon (V2) may cater to users who prefer a heavier feel for a more tactile experience, the Haimu Orange Sea is ideal for users seeking a softer touch and reduced finger fatigue. Overall, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and comfort during extended use.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity in travel distance means that users will experience a comparable keypress feel when using either switch, providing a consistent tactile experience for typing or gaming. Since both switches share the same measurement, you can expect similar performance in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom, making them equally suitable for enthusiasts who prefer a linear switch with this specific travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a truly distinctive auditory experience characterized by its bright and high-pitched profile. Its resonant quality contributes to a clean and sharp sound, making typing feel crisp and clear. The marbly aspect of the switch enhances this further, evoking the imagery of billiard balls colliding or the tap of a solid piece of marble, resulting in an immersive auditory experience that engages the user. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea lacks specific details regarding its sound signature; therefore, it remains unknown how it compares in terms of auditory qualities.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) truly excels with its combination of creamy, bouncy, and invigorating characteristics. This switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, partly due to its factory lubrication and its bouncy rebound sensation that invigorates each keystroke. The polished finish further enhances the feeling of fluidity when typing. On the other hand, the feel of the Haimu Orange Sea is not specified, leaving an unanswered gap in direct comparison.

All in all, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch stands out with its bright sound profile and exceptionally smooth, responsive feel, making it an enticing option for newcomers who prioritize auditory feedback and typing comfort. The Haimu Orange Sea’s qualities remain less defined, particularly concerning the sound and feel, which means anyone considering this switch may need to explore further or rely on personal preference. Ultimately, those who appreciate the unique sound and feel of the Baby Raccoon (V2) can expect a remarkable typing experience, while the Orange Sea may still offer enjoyable qualities, yet these remain to be discovered.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switches fundamentally boils down to personal preference for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a medium actuation force with a bright and resonant sound profile, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is an excellent choice. Its distinctive marbly sensation, coupled with a crisp typing experience, makes it suitable for those who appreciate auditory feedback and a lively keypress, whether for gaming or extensive typing tasks. In contrast, if you prefer a lighter touch with an impeccably smooth and neutral typing experience, the Haimu Orange Sea switches may be more to your liking. Their lower bottom-out force means less strain during long sessions, which can significantly enhance comfort. Ultimately, consider your typing habits, sound preferences, and the kind of feedback you desire; each switch offers a unique character that can greatly influence your overall mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) Linear

$5.50 per 10

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Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$2.79 per 10

Learn more