Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer unique typing experiences are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the SP-Star RedBlue switches. The Baby Raccoons are best known for their bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp type feel, thanks to their lengthened switch stems. These linear switches have a distinctive "marbley" quality that sets them apart. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches are particularly suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience. With a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, they offer a unique auditory experience. The RedBlue switches are categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, while the Baby Raccoons are characterized as resonant, marbly, high-pitched, creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. 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
57g
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 RedBlue both utilize polycarbonate material for their top housing, providing similar benefits in terms of sound quality and aesthetics. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a crisp and resonant sound profile, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for those who prefer RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through for a visually appealing effect. Therefore, both switches offer a comparable sound and lighting experience thanks to their polycarbonate top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Baby Raccoon features a nylon bottom housing, which offers a distinct typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when compared to polycarbonate. On the other hand, the RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with its top housing material. As a result, the RedBlue maintains the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that polycarbonate brings to the table. This difference in bottom housing material between the Baby Raccoon and RedBlue ultimately affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the respective switches.
In summary, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the SP-Star RedBlue showcase the advantages of using polycarbonate material for their top housing by producing a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile and offering compatibility with RGB lighting. However, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The Baby Raccoon's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the overall qualities of its top housing material. Therefore, depending on one's preference for sound and typing experience, both switches can deliver satisfying results.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Baby Raccoon is 55 grams, while the RedBlue's actuation force is unavailable. Both switches fall into the medium category, meaning they require a moderate force to trigger a keystroke.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Baby Raccoon has a slightly higher bottom out force of 63 grams, which is still within the medium range. On the other hand, the RedBlue has a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, placing it in the medium-light category.
Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals may prefer a lighter option like the RedBlue, as it allows for longer periods of typing without experiencing fatigue. This could be ideal for those using their keyboards for work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the contrary, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Baby Raccoon with its heavier forces.
In conclusion, the actuation force of the Baby Raccoon is known at 55 grams, while the RedBlue's force remains unknown. However, both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation force. The Baby Raccoon has a slightly higher bottom out force of 63 grams, while the RedBlue has a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams. Overall, the Baby Raccoon is slightly heavier, providing a stronger push feel, while the RedBlue offers a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have different travel distances. The Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the RedBlue has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the RedBlue switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Baby Raccoon. In terms of preferences, shorter travel distances are often preferred by gamers as they offer faster response times. So, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Baby Raccoon with its shorter travel distance would be the better choice. On the other hand, some people may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer switches with more depth. In that case, the RedBlue switch's longer travel distance might be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 renowned for its unique sound profile. It is described as resonant, offering a higher-pitched sound profile that provides an immersive auditory experience. The sound produced is clean and sharp, resembling the tapping on a solid piece of marble or the collision of billiard balls. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile. This type of switch tends to have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the RedBlue is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes and preferences. Although the sound qualities of the two switches differ, they both offer distinct and desirable characteristics.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon is known for providing a creamy and buttery typing experience. This is attributed to the switch's smoothness, which can be a result of lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used in its construction. Typing on this switch offers a silky sensation, as fingers glide effortlessly across the keys, creating a seamless keystroke experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch is described as mild in terms of its feel. This means that it offers a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone that can be approachable and comfortable for most users. Both switches, however, feature a polished finish that contributes to smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and SP-Star RedBlue switches have distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon offers a resonant and marbly sound profile that is higher-pitched and clean, while the RedBlue provides a low-pitched sound with a neutral overall profile. When it comes to the feel, the Baby Raccoon offers a creamy and invigorating typing experience, while the RedBlue provides a milder and approachable feel. Although they differ in some aspects, both switches share the advantage of having a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. Whether you prefer a bright, resonant sound with a crisp feel or a milder, low-pitched sound with a gentle feel, these switches offer unique options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron Baby Raccoon would be a great option. These switches are characterized by their bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to their lengthened switch stems. They provide an immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile. If you enjoy the resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound of switches, the Baby Raccoon is a solid choice.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue would be worth considering. These switches have a medium-light bottom out force, making them suited for those who want a gentler experience. The RedBlue switches offer a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, which might appeal to users who don't prefer richer and bassier sound profiles. These switches can be described as low-pitched, neutral, and thocky, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, a moderate actuation force requirement, and a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon provides a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience. With their smooth and buttery feel, these switches offer a silky sensation and rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switches provide a mild and polished typing experience. These switches offer a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, and they also have a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the SP-Star RedBlue switches depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so consider your priorities and choose accordingly.
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