Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Outemu Silent Green, both linear switches with unique characteristics. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems which give it a distinctive "marbley" quality. On the other hand, the Silent Green is known for its silent operation, making it a great choice for those looking to minimize noise. While the Baby Raccoon offers a more resonant and invigorating typing experience, the Silent Green provides a quieter and more subdued feel. 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
60g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Baby Raccoon (V2) and Outemu Silent Green both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, the Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out with its nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Silent Green utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing the same sharp and crisp sound characteristics found in its top housing.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, the Baby Raccoon (V2) and Outemu Silent Green differ in their bottom housing materials. The Baby Raccoon (V2) excels in providing a unique typing experience with its nylon bottom housing, ensuring a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing complements its top housing, maintaining a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile throughout the switch. While the top and bottom housings of a switch may affect the sound profile differently, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience to users seeking distinct sound characteristics.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Baby Raccoon (V2) and Outemu Silent Green play crucial roles in determining the sound profile and overall feel of the switches. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, the Baby Raccoon (V2) distinguishes itself with its nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound experience. In contrast, the Silent Green maintains a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether you prioritize a unique sound profile or a consistent typing experience, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch both fall into the medium weight category in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Baby Raccoon has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Silent Green's 45 grams, but they both require a bottom out force of 60-63 grams. This means that while the Baby Raccoon may feel slightly heavier when initially pressing the keys, the overall typing experience in terms of bottoming out is quite similar between the two switches. The decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding the actuation feel, with the Baby Raccoon offering a slightly firmer push while the Silent Green providing a lighter touch. Ultimately, both switches strike a balance between a comfortable typing experience and a satisfying tactile response.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it is evident that the Baby Raccoon has a shorter travel distance of 3.6mm compared to the Silent Green's 4mm. This means that the Baby Raccoon will provide a slightly quicker key press response due to its shorter distance. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Baby Raccoon for this reason. On the other hand, the Silent Green offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying depth and tactile feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and typing experience.
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 Silent Green 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 sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, information on the sound characteristics of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is currently unavailable. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, offering a smooth, buttery typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation. The keys provide a lively feel with firm actuation force, creating a polished and sleek typing experience. Conversely, there is no available information on the tactile feel of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is recognized for its unique sound and feel qualities, providing a marbly, high-pitched sound profile and a creamy, bouncy typing experience. While information on the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is currently limited, based on the detailed descriptions of the Baby Raccoon (V2), it is expected that the Silent Green may offer similar results in terms of sound and feel characteristics. As always, personal preference plays an important role in selecting the right switch for your typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch or the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you are looking for a switch with a bright and resonant sound profile, a marbley feel with a medium bottom out force, and enjoy a higher-pitched sound signature, then the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking a silent switch with a medium bottom out force and prefer a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent Green may be more suitable. Remember to consider factors like sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision to ensure you choose the right switch for your keyboard preferences.
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