Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the unique characteristics of different options. The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out with its distinct, bright sound signature and a crisp typing experience, thanks in part to its longer stems that lend a "marbley" feel to each keystroke. These switches are celebrated for their resonant, polished performance, making them an invigorating choice for gamers and typists alike. In contrast, the Huano Sakura switches are designed for those who prefer a feather-light touch coupled with medium acoustics, providing comfort for long typing sessions without feeling fatigued. While the Baby Raccoons offer a more dynamic and lively typing experience, the Sakuras provide subtlety and ease, catering to different user 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
35g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Sakura switches differ significantly in their top housing materials, which leads to contrasting sound characteristics. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate’s stiffness, which allows for clearer resonance and a more pronounced sound when pressing the key. Its translucency also makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting setups, enhancing the visual customization of a keyboard. In contrast, the Sakura's top housing is made from POK material, offering its own advantages with a smoother typing experience. While the sound profile of the POK material contributes to a smooth, clacky sound, it does not possess the same level of sharpness or clarity that polycarbonate provides. Therefore, users seeking a brighter sound might lean towards the Baby Raccoon, while those preferring smoothness could favor the Sakura.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which establishes a common ground in sound characteristics despite their differences above. Nylon is revered for its sound absorption qualities, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile regardless of the top material used. This similarity means that while the top housings contribute distinct tones, the nylon bottom housing absorbs some of the higher frequencies produced by the top materials, bringing a rounder, softer sound to both switch types. Given that both switches share this bottom housing material, users can expect a comparable bottom-out feel across both models. This characteristic makes both switches appealing for users who prefer a smooth and less jarring bottom-out experience.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials are the defining factors in the overall auditory experience of each switch. The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) provides a sharper and clearer sound profile due to its polycarbonate top, best suited for users desiring a resonant typing experience. Meanwhile, the Huano Sakura, with its POK top housing, delivers a smoother and slightly more muted sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a quieter yet enjoyable typing sensation. While the nylon bottom housings ensure that users experience a similarly rich sound depth when bottoming out, the unique properties of the top housings give each switch its distinctive character, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, distinct differences emerge in terms of weight. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, giving it a medium weight that some typists may find satisfying for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Huano Sakura switch offers a significantly lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, catering to those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Consequently, individuals looking for a lighter switch for comfort during prolonged use would benefit from the Sakura, while those who appreciate a firmer push should opt for the Baby Raccoon (V2). This clear disparity indicates which switch is better suited for different preferences in tactile feedback and typing endurance.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in terms of the distance traveled from the top to the bottom when a key is pressed. This means that users can expect a similar feel and responsiveness when typing or gaming with either switch, as the travel distance contributes significantly to the overall performance and feedback of the keyboard. Since both switches share the same travel distance, individuals choosing between them can anticipate similar results in terms of key actuation and comfort.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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 quality, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched audio feedback, creating a bright and immersive typing experience. This clean and sharp sound profile is often likened to the clarity of marble, resulting in a marbly auditory sensation that is satisfying for those who appreciate crisp tones. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switch lacks specific descriptions of its acoustics, leaving its sound profile somewhat undefined. However, it typically features medium acoustics, which should create a more subdued sound compared to the Baby Raccoon, potentially making it a better choice for quieter environments.
In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) excels with its creamy, bouncy, and invigorating characteristics. Users can expect a smooth and buttery typing experience thanks to a polished finish, allowing for effortless key travel and a lively feedback sensation with each keystroke. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy a responsive and engaging typing experience. The Huano Sakura switch does not have specific feel descriptors provided, so its tactile feedback and overall typing experience remain uncertain when compared to the well-defined and rich characteristics of the Baby Raccoon.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) comes across as a well-rounded switch offering distinct auditory and tactile experiences that many keyboard enthusiasts may appreciate. Meanwhile, the Huano Sakura linear switch, while potentially appealing for those seeking a quieter typing experience, lacks detailed subjective qualities in sound and feel, making it difficult to fully assess its strengths. If you prefer pronounced audio feedback and a gratifying typing sensation, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is likely the stronger choice. However, personal preference for sound and feel will ultimately guide your decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Sakura linear switches, your decision should align with your typing preferences and ergonomics. If you enjoy a firmer typing experience with more resistance, and prefer a unique auditory feedback that is bright and crisp, the Baby Raccoon (V2) could be your ideal pick. Its medium bottom out force of 63 grams, combined with its marbly, resonant sound profile and creamy feel, offers an invigorating typing experience that can keep you engaged during long sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, where comfort and fatigue-free operation are paramount, you’ll likely gravitate towards the Sakura. With a lower bottom out force of 45 grams and its feather-light approach, the Sakura provides a pleasant typing experience with medium acoustics that won’t tire you out easily. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches hinges on whether you favor a more tactile and resonant typing experience or a lighter, more effortless feel.
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