Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Durock Piano, both of which belong to the linear switch category. The Baby Raccoon is renowned for its bright sound signature and delightfully crisp typing experience, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. With a unique marbly feel, these switches offer an invigorating and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Piano is highly regarded for its proprietary material blend, resulting in one of the most pleasurable linear switches to type on. Users mention a smooth gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature when using these switches. The Piano gives a bassy touch, while also being frictionless and silky. However, let's delve deeper beyond these general characteristics to aid you in determining the best switch for your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Durock Piano switches differ in terms of the materials used and the resulting sound profiles. The Baby Raccoon features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which produces a clearer and more resonant sound. In contrast, the Piano switch utilizes a proprietary POM blend for its top housing, resulting in a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. While we do not have specific details about this blend, it is known to deliver a pleasant auditory experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Baby Raccoon employs a nylon material. Typing on switches with nylon housings produces a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. Similarly, the Durock Piano utilizes its proprietary POM blend for the bottom housing. Although the exact composition remains undisclosed, this blend is known for creating a deep and satisfying sound profile. Both switches offer a unique sound experience, allowing users to choose the one that appeals to their preferences.
As there are differences between the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Durock Piano switches, the characteristics each material brings are split between these parts. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become evident, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound produced when releasing a key is primarily influenced by the top housing. Despite their different housing materials, both switches offer users the opportunity to enjoy distinctive sound profiles, ensuring an enhanced typing or gaming experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and Durock Piano linear switches, some similarities and differences can be observed. The actuation force of the Baby Raccoon is 55 grams, while the Piano's actuation force is not available. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 63 grams, which falls within the medium range.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it enables them to type for extended periods, making it ideal for work or lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, others prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For those individuals, options with heavier forces are more suitable.
While the actuation force remains unknown for the Piano, its bottom out force is slightly heavier at 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy compared to the Baby Raccoon. This indicates that the Piano may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience, but the difference is minimal. Therefore, if a lighter actuation force is a priority, both switches are likely to yield similar results when bottoming out. Ultimately, the weight preference of the user will be the determining factor in choosing between the two switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch have different travel distances. The Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Piano has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Piano has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Baby Raccoon. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become more popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Baby Raccoon with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. On the other hand, some people find short travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a switch with more depth. In that case, the Piano with its longer travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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. With lengthened switch stems, the Baby Raccoon produces a resonant sound profile that is clean and sharp. In fact, the switch's sound can be described as marbly, resembling the sound of tapping on a solid piece of marble or the collision of billiard balls. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch offers a deep and creamy sound signature that is characterized by a bassy tone. While the Baby Raccoon leans towards a higher-pitched sound, the Piano provides a richer sound with a lower frequency range. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors, such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon offers a creamy and polished typing experience. The switch is smooth and buttery, providing a silky sensation as your fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. This can be attributed to either factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch. Additionally, the Baby Raccoon switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback that adds a lively feel to each key press. It is also considered invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel that enhances the typing experience.
In comparison, the Durock Piano linear switch offers a frictionless and silky typing experience. It minimizes resistance and friction when pressing the keys, allowing for exceptionally smooth key travel. This results in a fluid and effortless typing feel. The switch enhances the overall smoothness, minimizing resistance when both pressing and releasing keys.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and Durock Piano linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Baby Raccoon provides a resonant, high-pitched sound and a creamy, bouncy feel, the Piano offers a deep, bassy sound and a frictionless, silky feel. Both switches have their unique strengths and are known for providing pleasant typing experiences. Depending on personal preferences and the desired sound and feel, either switch can be a suitable choice. Additionally, it's essential to consider other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps to achieve the desired results.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prioritize a bright and resonant sound profile, along with a refreshing and crisp typing feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Baby Raccoons are characterized by a marbley sound signature, thanks to their lengthened switch stems, which adds a unique auditory experience to your typing. Additionally, these switches offer a creamy and bouncy feel, providing a smooth and invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound profile, combined with a frictionless and silky typing experience, the Durock Piano linear switch would be more suitable for you. The proprietary material blend of the Pianos results in a deep and creamy sound signature, while the switches themselves offer a polished and frictionless feel, ensuring effortless key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Durock Piano will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, allowing you to find the perfect match for your typing needs.
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