Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Outemu Peach (V3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Outemu Peach (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that deserve attention are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Outemu Peach. Both switches are linear, providing a smooth keystroke experience without any tactile feedback. The Gateron Baby Raccoon stands out with its distinct characteristics, known for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp type feel. This is thanks to the lengthened switch stems, which are 0.64mm longer than typical stems, giving it a unique "marbley" sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach offers a different appeal as it is extremely lightweight and silenced, making it ideal for those who desire a feathery light typing experience. The Peach switch is perfect for linear lovers who appreciate a subtler, muted approach to their keyboard. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Outemu Outemu Peach differ in terms of their housing materials. The Baby Raccoon features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate material is relatively stiffer, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate proves useful for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach utilizes a nylon top housing, offering a typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, as a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Although both switches have different top housing materials, they each create unique sound profiles to cater to different preferences and needs.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Outemu Peach utilize nylon as the choice material. Nylon, known as a classic switch housing material, elicits a more profound and fuller sound profile when typing. Its softer nature allows for better sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Although both switches feature the same nylon bottom housing, they may still offer distinct sound and tactile experiences since the top and bottom housings contribute differently to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
It is worth noting that the top and bottom housings of a switch will have varying impacts on the sound and feel of typing. When pressing down on the Gateron Baby Raccoon or the Outemu Peach, the experience will be influenced more by the characteristics of the bottom housing. The bottom housing primarily determines the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, even if the housing materials are different, both switches will offer similar experiences when it comes to the actuation and release of keys, while providing distinct sound profiles depending on the specific housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Raccoon has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams, compared to the Peach's 40 grams, making it slightly heavier to trigger keystrokes. Similarly, the Baby Raccoon has a higher bottom out force of 63 grams compared to the Peach's 50 grams, indicating that it requires slightly more force to fully press down on the keys.
Considering weight preferences, the Baby Raccoon may be favored by those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. The higher actuation and bottom out forces of the Baby Raccoon can provide a satisfying tactile feedback for users who enjoy a slightly heavier switch. On the other hand, the Peach may appeal to individuals who like a lighter typing experience, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces of 40 and 50 grams, respectively, provide a smoother and easier keystroke activation.
Overall, while the Baby Raccoon offers a medium-weight typing experience, the Outemu Peach provides a lighter touch. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can deliver satisfying results, catering to those who like it lighter for prolonged typing sessions or heavier for a more pronounced tactile feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, we can see that the Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Peach has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable for those seeking faster response times. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances for increased responsiveness. However, it is important to note that while the Baby Raccoon offers a slightly longer travel distance, some individuals may find this to be too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper, more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, then the switch with the longer travel distance may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Peach (V3) comes in at $3.40.
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 switch is known for its resonant, marbly, and high-pitched characteristics. Typing on these switches will provide a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. It can be likened to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switch has a neutral and muted sound. Being a muted switch, it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, effectively minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Baby Raccoon delivering a more resonant and high-pitched experience, while the Peach offers a muted and quieter sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon switch is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. This switch provides a smooth and buttery typing experience, similar to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. It offers a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, it has pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel for an immersive typing sensation. The polished finish of these switches ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switch is characterized by a mild and subtle feel. It provides a gentle typing experience with a light typing feel and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. Similar to the Baby Raccoon, the Peach switch also has a polished finish, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and Outemu Peach switches offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon delivers a bright, resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, while the Peach provides a neutral and muted sound. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience, while the Peach provides a mild, subtle, and polished feel. It is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, based on the available information, it is safe to say that the Gateron Baby Raccoon and Outemu Peach switches will provide distinct and satisfying experiences for keyboard enthusiasts, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a bright sound signature and a crisp typing feel, then the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its medium bottom-out force of 63 grams and lengthened switch stems, these switches offer a unique "marbley" experience that can be compared to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble. They produce a high-pitched and resonant sound, providing an immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon switches are creamy and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a feathery light typing experience and want a silenced switch, then the Outemu Outemu Peach linear switch would be more suitable for you. With a bottom-out force of 50 grams, these switches are very lightweight. They are also silenced, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The Outemu Peach switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments. In terms of feel, they are mild and subtle, providing a gentle typing experience without being too pronounced. Just like the Baby Raccoon, the Outemu Peach switches are also polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Outemu Outemu Peach switches depends on your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a bright and resonant sound with a crisp typing feel, go for the Baby Raccoon. However, if you prefer a feathery light typing experience with a silenced switch, the Outemu Peach would be the better option. Consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard to make an informed decision.
Mentioned in this article
