Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and Sarokeys Purple Sakura stand out as unique options to explore. The Baby Raccoon is a linear switch known for its bright sound signature and crisp type feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. Described as 'marbley,' it offers a range of characteristics such as being resonant, high-pitched, and bouncy. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura is a tactile switch praised for its snappy response and buttery downstroke. Its tactility strikes a delicate balance, being pronounced yet not overpowering, with a mild and neutral sound signature. While the Baby Raccoon appeals to those seeking a lively typing experience, the Purple Sakura is ideal for those who prefer a more tactile response. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura feature polycarbonate top housings, which offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, creating a clear and resonant sound that is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housings of both switches differ in their sound profiles. The Baby Raccoon (V2) uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing contributes to a rounder and duller sound.
While both switches may share a polycarbonate top housing for similar sound characteristics, the difference in their bottom housings leads to varying typing experiences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) with its nylon bottom housing provides a tactile and deep typing experience, while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing offers a softer and more absorbing sound profile. The split between top and bottom housing materials showcases how each component affects different aspects of typing, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the combination of their housing materials.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. While both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound, their different bottom housings result in distinct typing experiences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) with its nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing offers a rounder and duller sound. Understanding how different housing materials impact the overall sound and feel of a switch is essential for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch have similar actuation forces, with the Baby Raccoon requiring 55 grams and the Purple Sakura needing 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out forces, the Baby Raccoon is slightly heavier at 63 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-weight category, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Purple Sakura, while individuals seeking a more substantial push feel may opt for the Baby Raccoon. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron Baby Raccoon. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may opt for the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Gateron Baby Raccoon. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches may be subtle, but it can make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience based on individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is best described as resonant, marbly, and high-pitched, offering a higher-pitched and clean sound profile that can provide an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes without being overpowering. Both switches offer different sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Baby Raccoon (V2) providing a more vibrant and sharp auditory experience compared to the Purple Sakura's mild and neutral sound.
In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is known for its creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished characteristics that offer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch is described as buttery, mild, and snappy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a gentle typing feel that is super responsive. Both switches provide unique tactile sensations that enhance the typing experience, with the Baby Raccoon (V2) offering a more invigorating and polished feel compared to the Purple Sakura's seamless and approachable typing sensation.
Overall, while the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience tailored to different preferences. Whether you prefer a more vibrant and crisp sound with a creamy and bouncy feel or a neutral and mild sound with a buttery and snappy feel, these switches can cater to your specific needs and enhance your overall typing experience. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these switches to ensure that you get the best results for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile with a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, or polished typing feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a buttery, mild, or snappy typing feel, the Purple Sakura could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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