Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) 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 and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Baby Raccoon is a linear switch that stands out for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing experience. This can be attributed to its lengthened switch stems, which are 0.64mm longer than typical stems. With qualities like being resonant, marbly, high-pitched, creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, the Baby Raccoon switches truly offer a unique and satisfying feel. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch that excels in providing maximum tactility. Typing on these switches offers a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack. With characteristics like being resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, the POM T1 (Sunflower) delivers a punchy and satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 POM T1 (Sunflower) offer distinct qualities and characteristics. The Baby Raccoon features a polycarbonate top housing, which enhances its sound profile by creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the transparent nature of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) boasts a POM top housing that produces an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The sound profile leans towards the deeper side, resulting in a relatively more muted sound. This contrast indicates that the POM T1 will provide a distinct auditory experience compared to the Baby Raccoon.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both switches exhibit variation in housing materials. The Baby Raccoon features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Thanks to the softer nature of nylon, this material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the POM T1 utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also adds to the overall sound profile. With the POM housing, users can expect a deeper sound that aligns with a relatively more muted tone. While the specific qualities may differ slightly, both switches provide a sound experience that deviates from traditional harder plastics.
It is worth noting that the impact of the housing materials is split between the top and bottom of each switch. When pressing down on a key, the qualities of the bottom housing are most noticeable, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, although the exact materials may vary for the top and bottom housings of each switch, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and overall experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Baby Raccoon has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, which can be considered as a medium weight. On the other hand, the POM T1 has an unknown actuation force, making it difficult to compare, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Baby Raccoon switch more suitable. Its lower actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without fatiguing the fingers, making it ideal for work or extended gaming periods. On the contrary, those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel might lean towards the POM T1 switch. With its slightly heavier bottom out force, these users can achieve a more robust and tactile typing sensation.
While the actuation force of the POM T1 switch is not known, if it falls within a similar range as the Baby Raccoon, then both switches can deliver comparable results in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, it is worth noting that the POM T1's higher bottom out force suggests a potentially firmer tactile feedback when fully pressed.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch depends on personal preference. Those desiring a lighter typing experience may opt for the Baby Raccoon, while individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile feel may prefer the POM T1.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, we can see that there is a difference between the two. The Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. It is important to note that 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow.
For those who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm in the Baby Raccoon switch may be preferred. Gamers, for example, often opt for switches with shorter travel distances to enhance their gaming experience. However, it is worth mentioning that some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt.
On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may be inclined to choose the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch with its 4 mm travel distance. This longer travel distance provides a more hearty depth that some find more satisfying.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, with those seeking faster response times favoring the shorter distance, while others may prefer the deeper feel of the longer distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) 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
When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches provide a clean and sharp profile. The Baby Raccoon is described as resonant and marbly, offering a higher-pitched sound and an immersive auditory experience. Imagine the sound of tapping on a solid piece of marble or the collision of two billiard balls. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is also resonant but is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, using them at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience. The creamy switch provides smooth and buttery key presses, gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The bouncy switch gives a spring-like feedback sensation, providing a lively feel with rebound when pressed. An invigorating switch offers pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. Finally, a polished switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is described as sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating. The sharp tactile bump of the POM T1 gives a distinct and intense feedback with each keypress. It is neither overwhelmingly tactile nor subtle. Snappy switches have great responsiveness, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs. Both switches offer an invigorating typing sensation, making each keystroke more immersive.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches have their own unique qualities. The Baby Raccoon provides a bright sound signature, resonant and marbly, with a refreshingly crisp typing feel. Its lengthened switch stems contribute to its extraordinary linear switch experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a punchy tactile switch with a sharp tactility and satisfying clean clack. While they have slightly different sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide a clean and sharp sound profile. The Baby Raccoon offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished feel, while the POM T1 is sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating. Depending on your personal preferences, either switch can provide a fantastic typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a bright and resonant sound with a clean and sharp profile, along with a refreshingly crisp type feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is the better choice for you. With its marbley quality and lengthened stems, it provides a unique auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, if you desire maximum tactility and a satisfying clean clack, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the way to go. It offers a punchy switch with a sharp and pronounced tactile bump that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as both switches have their own distinct characteristics.
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