Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Outemu Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they both fall under the linear switch category. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. The switches are described as resonant, marbly, high-pitched, creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean lacks a distinct standout feature but offers a silent typing experience. While choosing a switch, it's important to consider whether you prefer a switch with unique characteristics like the Baby Raccoon (V2) or a more subtle and silent typing experience like the Outemu Silent Ocean. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Outemu Silent Ocean, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is especially beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. In contrast, the nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound to create a rounder and duller sound. While both switches share similar top and bottom housing materials, the distribution of these materials within the switch affects the typing experience.
Despite the similarities in their housing materials, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Outemu Silent Ocean may differ in their overall sound profiles due to the distribution of materials. The nylon bottom housing of each switch contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. This distribution can lead to a nuanced typing experience, with the combination of the two materials offering a balance between sharpness and depth in sound. Both switches benefit from the unique properties of polycarbonate and nylon, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Outemu Silent Ocean highlights the impact of polycarbonate and nylon on sound profile and feel. While polycarbonate top housings create a clear, resonant sound with a sharper tone, nylon bottom housings elicit a deeper and fuller sound with a rounder quality. The combination of these materials in each switch results in a tactile typing experience that balances sharpness and depth, making them suitable for different preferences in sound and feel. Whether the focus is on RGB lighting compatibility or sound profile, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard users.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch both fall into the medium weight category when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Raccoon has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Silent Ocean's 45 grams, while the bottom out force of the Silent Ocean at 65 grams is heavier than the Baby Raccoon's 63 grams. This means that the Silent Ocean provides a slightly lighter initial typing feel but requires more force to fully press the key compared to the Baby Raccoon. Both switches offer a balance between a light typing experience and a more substantial feel, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming needs. Ultimately, if you prefer a slightly lighter touch, the Silent Ocean may be the better option, while those who prefer a firmer press might lean towards the Baby Raccoon for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Baby Raccoon has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Ocean. The 3.6 mm travel distance of the Baby Raccoon falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Silent Ocean offers a bit more depth, which some users may find to be a more comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Ocean 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 has a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, making it difficult to compare the two switches in terms of sound. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) switch is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, offering a smooth, bouncy, snappy, and refined typing experience. These qualities indicate that typing on the Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch will feel effortless, lively, responsive, and sleek. On the other hand, there is no information provided about the feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch, making it challenging to compare the tactile sensations between the two switches.
Considering all available information, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch seems to excel in providing a bright, resonant sound and a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished feel. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch are unknown, if you prefer a switch with similar characteristics to the Baby Raccoon (V2), you may want to look for switches with descriptors like creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a bright, resonant sound profile, as well as a smooth and creamy typing experience, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a silent operation, the Outemu Silent Ocean would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider your preferences and needs carefully before making your choice.
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