Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HC Studio Roselle both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is known for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. This results in a unique "marbley" sensation when typing, giving it a distinctive character. On the other hand, the Roselle stands out for its incredibly smooth and almost ethereal typing experience, with a subtle low-pitched sound signature. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) is categorized as 'Resonant', 'Marbly', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Bouncy', 'Invigorating', 'Polished', the Roselle is labeled as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
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
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This is contrasted with the HC Studio Roselle's POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) is ideal for those looking for a clear, resonant sound with RGB lighting, the Roselle provides a different auditory experience with its unique sound profile. However, both switches offer quality housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Baby Raccoon (V2) utilizes a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. Similarly, the Roselle's POM bottom housing contributes to a pleasing and unique sound experience that is deeper and more muted compared to other materials. Despite the differences in sound profiles, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective bottom housing materials.
When considering the overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials in both switches plays a significant role. While the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a stiffer polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound upon key release, the Roselle's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. Likewise, the nylon bottom housing of the Baby Raccoon (V2) contributes to a fuller sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Roselle offers a unique auditory experience. Ultimately, each switch caters to different preferences in sound and typing feel, providing users with a variety of options to suit their individual needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, we find that the Baby Raccoon has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Roselle's 45 grams, making the Roselle the lighter option. In terms of bottom out force, the Baby Raccoon requires 63 grams while the Roselle only needs 52 grams, making the Roselle the lighter option once again. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, but the Roselle leans towards the lighter side. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Roselle may be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces of 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) and the HC Studio Roselle linear switches both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent feel and actuation point, ideal for those who prefer a linear typing experience. The similarity in their travel distance means that users can expect consistent performance and feedback from both switches, whether typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is known for its resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, which provides a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a bassy, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile, giving off a deeper and richer tone during key presses. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) delivers a bright and high-pitched sound, the Roselle provides a subtle, low-pitched and bass-heavy tone, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more bassy tone.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is well-known for its creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience. These qualities make it smooth, buttery, spring-like, and refined, offering an effortless and polished typing sensation. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch boasts a frictionless and mild typing experience, focusing on providing a smooth and effortless feel with minimal resistance. The Roselle offers a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel, making it approachable to most users. Depending on personal preferences for typing feel, one could choose between the more pronounced, invigorating feel of the Baby Raccoon (V2) or the smooth, frictionless feel of the Roselle.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch excels in providing a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, coupled with a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a bassy, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile, along with a frictionless and mild typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, so the choice ultimately boils down to whether one favors a sharper, crisper sound with a more pronounced typing feel or a deeper, richer tone with a smoother, gentler typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that will enhance the typing experience, providing variety for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering which switch to choose between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a bright, resonant sound with a crisp typing experience, the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother, bassy sound with a sensitive, frictionless typing feel, the Roselle could be the ideal switch for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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