Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Kailh Sage. The Baby Raccoon is a linear switch known for its bright sound signature and refreshing crisp typing feel. One of its unique features is its lengthened switch stems, which are 0.64mm longer than typical stems. This gives the Baby Raccoon a distinctively "marbley" sensation, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Sage offers a distinct clicky typing experience. With a weight that leans toward the heavy side and a refreshingly sharp clickiness, the Sage switch provides a satisfying tactile feedback that many users appreciate. Both switches offer their own advantages, whether it's the "marbly" smoothness of the Baby Raccoon or the invigorating clickiness of the Sage. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Kailh Sage, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the transparent nature of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and lighting experiences with both switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials differentiate the switches. The Baby Raccoon incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the Sage also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This leads to a rounder and duller sound when typing on switches that feature nylon bottom housings. So, in terms of sound, both switches will provide a similar typing experience.
It is important to note that while the top housing may impact the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Therefore, the choice of bottom housing material, nylon in this case, will have a more noticeable effect on the overall typing experience. Thus, users can expect comparable bottom-out sounds and feels with both the Baby Raccoon and the Sage, while the top housing material will primarily influence the sound upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are some clear differences. The actuation force of the Baby Raccoon is 55 grams, while the Sage's actuation force is unknown. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Baby Raccoon at 63 grams and the Sage at 70 grams, making it slightly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Baby Raccoon would be the better choice, as its actuation and bottom out forces are relatively lower. This lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions and is ideal for work or gaming. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing experience is desired, the Sage with its heavier bottom out force would provide a stronger push feel. Overall, while the actuation force of the Sage remains unknown, its heavier bottom out force suggests it is a slightly heavier switch compared to the Baby Raccoon.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom of the switch. Both switches offer a similar tactile experience in terms of the distance they travel, ensuring a consistent and familiar typing or gaming experience. Whether you choose the Gateron Baby Raccoon or the Kailh Sage, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) comes in at $5.50, whereas the Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25.
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 well-known for its bright and marbley sound signature. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched and clean sound profile. The sound is resonant and sharp, reminiscent of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a distinct clicky typing experience. The sound of these switches is best described as crunchy, similar to the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. The Sage switches have a heavy weight and provide a refreshingly sharp clickiness.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon switch offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience. These switches have a smooth and buttery feel, similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. The keys provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, these switches offer an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. They also have a polished finish, reducing friction and providing a smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is described as invigorating and sharp. They offer a pronounced feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch have their own unique sound and feel qualities. The Baby Raccoon offers a resonant and marbly sound, while the Sage provides a crunchy clickiness. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon is creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, providing a smooth and immersive typing experience. The Sage is also invigorating and sharp, giving a distinct tactile feedback. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for sound and feel. It is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, a bright sound signature, and a refreshingly crisp typing feel, then the Gateron Baby Raccoon is the switch for you. With its elongated switch stems, it provides a marbly sensation that is reminiscent of tapping on a solid piece of marble. The sound profile is resonant and high-pitched, offering an immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a distinct clicky typing experience, then the Kailh Sage is the switch to go for. The Sage's weight is quite heavy, and it offers a refreshing sharp clickiness that resembles stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. The sound profile of the Sage is characterized as crunchy, emphasizing the satisfying tactile feedback it provides.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch will depend on your preference for linear or clicky switches, as well as the specific sound and feel characteristics that appeal to you. Whether you prioritize a bright, resonant sound with a crisp feel or a distinct clicky typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. In closing, make sure to consider your personal preferences and prioritize the factors that matter most to you when selecting your preferred mechanical keyboard switch.
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