Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Phalaenopsis offer unique and distinctive features. The Baby Raccoon is a linear switch that stands out for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp type feel. These switches have longer stems, contributing to their extraordinary marble-like sensation. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch that boasts beautiful translucent switches with a light actuation force of 37g. Typing becomes effortless and finger fatigue is minimized, thanks to the smoothness of these switches. With a tactile force of 50g, each keypress offers a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, making the typing experience truly delightful. While these general pointers give an overview of each switch's characteristics, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
37g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Phalaenopsis, specifically their polycarbonate top housing, share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a relatively stiff plastic, to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the polycarbonate material allows for a translucent housing, which is advantageous for individuals planning to use RGB lighting. As a result, users can expect similar sound quality and visual effects from both switches' polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, there is a notable difference between the two switches. The Gateron Baby Raccoon employs a nylon bottom housing, which yields a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. Conversely, the KTT Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with the characteristics discussed earlier for the top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, emphasizing clarity and resonance.
When using either switch, the distinction between the top and bottom housing materials becomes noticeable. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the sound and feel upon bottoming out the key. The nylon bottom housing of the Baby Raccoon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, adding a sense of weight and impact to each keystroke. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Phalaenopsis emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound, resulting in a more distinct keystroke. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, providing a clear and resonant finish to each keystroke.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Phalaenopsis utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, distinguishing factors arise when considering the bottom housing. The Baby Raccoon's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing reinforces a sharper and crisper sound. However, similarities can still be found in the overall sound profile due to the shared polycarbonate top housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience across both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, we can see some notable differences. The Baby Raccoon has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, compared to the Phalaenopsis which requires only 37 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This means that the Baby Raccoon switch may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Phalaenopsis switch requires 50 grams of force, while the Baby Raccoon requires 63 grams. This means that the Phalaenopsis switch is lighter in this aspect, allowing for a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing experience, especially during longer periods of use.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be a suitable choice, as it offers a lower actuation force as well as a lighter bottom out force. On the other hand, if someone prefers a more substantial and heavier typing feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch would be a better option with its heavier actuation and bottom out force.
In terms of similarities, both switches provide a medium actuation force, but the Baby Raccoon switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Phalaenopsis switch. Therefore, although the actuation forces are similar, the typing experience may differ due to the differing bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have different travel distances. The Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Phalaenopsis has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Phalaenopsis has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Baby Raccoon. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Phalaenopsis falls within the more traditional range, providing a balanced depth for typing. On the other hand, the Baby Raccoon's shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm caters to gamers who prioritize faster response times. Both switches offer their unique advantages, allowing users to choose based on personal preference. While the Baby Raccoon offers a shorter and potentially more responsive typing experience, the Phalaenopsis provides a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on the desired feel and response for the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is known for its bright and crisp sound signature. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. The sound can be described as resonant, marbly, and high-pitched, similar to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile. It is characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound can be described as bassy and thocky, producing a deep, satisfying sound when pressed and released.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch provides a creamy and bouncy typing experience. The switches offer a smooth and buttery sensation, gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. They also provide a lively and spring-like feedback, giving you rebound when pressed. The switches are described as invigorating and polished, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is described as a stepped switch. This means that it has a two-stage tactile feeling, where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon produces a resonant and marbly sound with a bright and crisp profile, while the Phalaenopsis offers a deeper and richer sound with a bassy and thocky profile. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon provides a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis is a stepped switch with a mild tactile feeling. Both switches offer unique experiences, and depending on your preferences, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a bright, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is the way to go. The longer switch stems provide a crisp typing feel, reminiscent of tapping on a slab of marble. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a delightful typing experience with minimal finger fatigue, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is the perfect choice. The light actuation force and discernible tactile bump ensure effortless typing, while the switch offers a rich and deep bassy sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Whether you're seeking a bright and resonant typing experience or a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, the Baby Raccoon and Phalaenopsis switches have got you covered.
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