Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available to suit specific preferences and typing styles. Two switches that stand out from the crowd are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, both of which fall into the linear switch category. The Baby Raccoon is renowned for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing feel, attributed to its lengthened switch stems. This unique feature gives the Baby Raccoon switches a distinctive "marbley" sensation. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches are sought after by those who prefer a bouncy typing experience. They offer a clean and clacky sound profile that adds a touch of satisfaction to each keystroke. While these general descriptions provide a brief overview of each switch's characteristics, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon and the SP-Star Polaris Gray share similar housing materials in their polycarbonate top housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it an ideal option for those who want to utilize RGB lighting in their keyboard setup. However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that the bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when a key is released.
In terms of their bottom housing materials, the Baby Raccoon incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Gray uses a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a classic choice for switch housing and results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, which creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced.
To summarize, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the SP-Star Polaris Gray feature polycarbonate top housings that offer similar benefits in terms of sound profile and compatibility with RGB lighting. However, they differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Baby Raccoon utilizing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound, and the Polaris Gray utilizing polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound. The distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings further highlights the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, some notable differences can be observed. The actuation force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon is 55 grams, while the Polaris Gray's actuation force is unfortunately not provided. However, both switches have a medium level of actuation force. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Gateron Baby Raccoon requires 63 grams of force to fully press down, whereas the Polaris Gray demands a slightly heavier force of 67 grams. While both can be considered medium-heavy, it is worth noting that the Polaris Gray requires a slightly stronger push for a more substantial typing experience. This heavier bottom out force may be preferred by individuals who seek a more robust feel while typing. However, if a lighter switch is desired for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming sessions, the Gateron Baby Raccoon would be a suitable option due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when selecting a switch to ensure an optimal typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is clear that the Baby Raccoon has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Polaris Gray has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem minor, but it can have an impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. The Baby Raccoon, with its shorter travel distance, offers a more responsive feel, making it a preferred choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray's longer travel distance provides a deeper and more substantial feel to each keystroke, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 best known for its bright and resonant sound profile. When typing on these switches, users can expect a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean, sharp, and described as "marbly," similar to tapping on a solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It is described as neutral, providing a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. Additionally, it is known for its "thocky" characteristic, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon switch offers a creamy and invigorating typing experience. These switches are smooth and buttery, providing a silky sensation while effortlessly gliding across the keys. They offer pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. It offers a gentle and approachable feel, falling in a safe middle-ground zone. Similar to the Baby Raccoon, it also has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon has a bright and resonant sound profile with a marbly characteristic, providing a clean and sharp sound. It offers a creamy and invigorating typing experience with smooth and buttery key presses. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray has a low-pitched sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It offers a neutral typing experience and falls in the safe middle-ground zone, providing a mild and polished feel. While they differ in these aspects, users can expect similar results in certain characteristics such as a polished feel due to smooth and refined finishes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-bottom out force and a bright sound signature with a crisp typing feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is the one for you. These switches are characterized by their longer switch stems, giving them a unique "marbley" sensation. The sound profile is resonant, high-pitched, and clean, providing an immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the Baby Raccoon switches offer a creamy and invigorating typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a bouncy typing experience, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is the ideal choice. These switches have a clean and clacky sound profile, with a low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow. The Polaris Gray also offers a polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. They provide a mild typing experience, with qualities that stand in a safe middle-ground zone suitable for most users.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches depends on your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider your typing style and desired auditory and tactile feedback to make an informed choice.
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