Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options worth considering are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Everglide Sakura Pink. Both switches belong to the linear switch family, but they have their own unique qualities that make them appealing to different types of typists. The Baby Raccoon stands out with its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. It offers a resonant and marbly experience that is invigorating and polished. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink shines with its super light actuation force of 35g, perfect for delicate typists. It provides a gliding type feel and a frictionless operation, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience. Additionally, the Sakura Pinks produce a playful poppy sound, reminiscent of popping bubble wrap. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific typing preferences.
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Everglide Sakura Pink both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice results in similar sound profiles for both switches. The polycarbonate material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when compared to other plastics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a comparable auditory experience and visual appeal when using either the Baby Raccoon or the Sakura Pink.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, these switches differ in their material choice. The Baby Raccoon employs a nylon bottom housing while the Sakura Pink utilizes polycarbonate. The nylon material in the Baby Raccoon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Sakura Pink contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Therefore, users can expect differing auditory experiences between the two switches, with the Baby Raccoon offering a deeper sound and the Sakura Pink delivering a sharper sound.
In terms of typing experience, the combination of different housing materials in the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Everglide Sakura Pink affects the sound and feel when pressing down or releasing a key. Due to the split between the top and bottom housing, the qualities of each material are divided between the two actions. Pressing down on a switch will primarily showcase the characteristics of the bottom housing, resulting in either a deeper and fuller sound for the Baby Raccoon or a sharper and crisper sound for the Sakura Pink. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound will be influenced more by the top housing. As a result, users can anticipate slight variations in the sound and tactile feedback between the two switches during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, there are clear differences in their weight and typing experience. The Baby Raccoon switch has a medium actuation force of 55 grams, requiring a slightly heavier push to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Sakura Pink switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 35 grams, allowing for a gentler touch when typing. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Baby Raccoon requires a force of 63 grams, while the Sakura Pink only requires 45 grams. This means that the Sakura Pink switch offers a lighter and more effortless typing experience overall. If someone prefers a keyboard with a lighter feel for extended periods of typing or gaming, the Sakura Pink switch would be an ideal choice. However, those who prefer a stronger and more substantial push may find the Baby Raccoon switch more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, it becomes evident that the Sakura Pink has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Baby Raccoon has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Sakura Pink falls within the typical range of 4.0 mm, while the Baby Raccoon offers a slightly shallower travel distance. However, with the increasing preference for shorter travel distances in gaming, the Baby Raccoon may be the preferred choice for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper and more pronounced keypress may find the Sakura Pink more suitable due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
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 linear switch is best described as resonant, marbly, and high-pitched. Typing on these switches will provide a higher-pitched sound profile with clean and sharp tones, similar to tapping on a solid piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch produces a muted sound. These switches are designed to minimize noise, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, but these descriptions provide a general idea of the sound qualities of each switch.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon switch offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience. Typing on these switches will feel smooth, buttery, and silky, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The keys have a lively feel with elastic feedback, providing a spring-like sensation and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink switch is described as buttery, creamy, easy-to-press, and frictionless. These switches provide a seamless, uniform, and low-impact typing experience. They have a smooth and fluid keystroke with minimal resistance and effort required to activate the keys. The typing sensation is effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions.
To summarize, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is characterized by a bright, resonant sound profile and a creamy, bouncy feel. It offers a crisp and refreshing typing experience with its lengthened stems. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch produces a muted sound and a buttery, easy-to-press feel. It offers a light actuation force and a frictionless operation, resulting in a smooth and effortless typing experience. While the sound and feel of these switches are distinct from each other, they both provide enjoyable and unique qualities. Depending on personal preferences, typists can choose between the higher-pitched and resonant experience of the Baby Raccoon or the softer and buttery sensation of the Sakura Pink. In terms of sound and feel, both switches aim to offer a pleasant and satisfying typing experience, albeit with different characteristics.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and appreciate a bright and resonant sound profile, the Baby Raccoon is the switch for you. With its marbly feel and crisp typing experience, it offers a unique and immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a quieter typing experience, the Sakura Pink is a great choice. With its feather-light actuation force and muted sound profile, it is perfect for delicate typists who value a smooth and effortless typing sensation. The Sakura Pink provides a frictionless operation and a delightful poppy sound, adding a playful touch to your keyboarding sessions.
Overall, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force, a bright and resonant sound profile, and a marbly feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon is the switch for you. However, if you prefer a lighter touch, a quieter typing experience, and a smooth and effortless feel, the Everglide Sakura Pink is the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. So, consider your desired typing experience and select the switch that best aligns with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
