Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Outemu Cream Blue 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 Outemu Cream Blue offer distinct characteristics to consider. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is a linear switch that is renowned for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. Described as "marbley," this switch delivers a resonant and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream Blue is a clicky switch with no specific standout features mentioned. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) excels in offering a lively and polished typing experience, the Cream Blue's appeal lies in its clicky 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 main difference between the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Outemu Cream Blue switches lies in the top housing. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Cream Blue has a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as the softer nylon absorbs more sound. While the top housing of the two switches offers contrasting sound profiles, their bottom housings use the same nylon material, which leads to a similar deep and full sound experience during typing.
Additionally, the transparency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Baby Raccoon (V2) allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the typing experience. In contrast, the Cream Blue's opaque nylon top housing emphasizes functionality over aesthetics, focusing on creating a solid typing sound. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile of the switches. Despite the different top housing materials, the similar nylon bottom housing ensures that users will get comparable typing experiences in terms of sound depth and fullness.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Outemu Cream Blue switches may come down to personal preference. If you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile with the option for RGB lighting, the Baby Raccoon (V2) with its polycarbonate top housing may be the better choice. Conversely, if you enjoy a deeper, fuller sound profile that focuses on functionality, the Cream Blue with its nylon top housing may be more to your liking. Regardless, both switches offer a quality typing experience with their shared nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent sound profile in that aspect.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in their overall performance. While the Baby Raccoon has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, the Cream Blue has a slightly lower actuation force of 50 grams but a higher bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the Baby Raccoon lighter in terms of actuation force but heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Cream Blue. Choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences - those who prefer a lighter keypress may lean towards the Baby Raccoon, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Cream Blue. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slight variations in keypress feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Baby Raccoon will provide a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers who value speed. On the other hand, the Cream Blue offers a slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Both switches have their own advantages depending on individual preferences, with the shorter distance of the Baby Raccoon offering a faster response and the longer distance of the Cream Blue providing a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize speed or the feeling of key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) comes in at $5.50, whereas the Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10.
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 is known for its resonant, marbly, and high-pitched characteristics, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch lacks a specific sound profile description, leaving this quality unknown. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a bright and crisp sound signature, the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be the ideal choice for you.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with spring-like feedback and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience. However, the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch remains unspecified, leaving this aspect open for exploration. If you prefer a switch with a silky sensation and lively feedback, the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be a great fit.
Considering the available information, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch offers a resonant sound profile, along with a creamy and polished feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking a bright sound and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch lacks specific descriptions for both sound and feel, making it a more unknown option. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on your preference for sound and feel, with the Baby Raccoon (V2) providing a more detailed and defined experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider the level of bottom out force you prefer. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Baby Raccoon (V2) with 63 grams may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a bright, resonant sound profile and a crisp typing experience, the Baby Raccoon (V2) with its marbly switches may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch, the Outemu Cream Blue with 65 grams may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and force requirements.
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