Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Semi Mute, both of which are linear switches. The Baby Raccoon is renowned for its bright sound signature and crisp typing experience, thanks to its longer switch stems. These extraordinary linear switches offer a unique "marbley" feel, contributing to a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute, despite its name, operates silently, making it perfect for individuals who value a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions. With a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the KTT Semi Mute switches provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. Although these general pointers give a glimpse into what each switch has to offer, let's delve deeper into their characteristics to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Semi Mute, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice allows them to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material to use for switches with RGB lighting. Aesthetically, the transparency of polycarbonate adds to the overall appeal of these switches. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects when using either the Baby Raccoon or the Semi Mute.
However, the main point of differentiation lies in the material used for the bottom housing. The Baby Raccoon features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Semi Mute employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This consistency ensures that the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile is maintained throughout the entire key press. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is more significant, making the Baby Raccoon's switch feel distinct from that of the Semi Mute.
In summary, while the top housing materials yield relatively similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics, the difference in bottom housing materials sets the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Semi Mute apart. The Baby Raccoon's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a consistent sharp and clear sound profile. Depending on the desired typing experience, users can choose between the two options, whether they prefer a more rounded sound or a consistent, higher-pitched sound throughout the key press.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Baby Raccoon is slightly heavier at 55 grams compared to the Semi Mute's 43 grams. This means that it would require a bit more force to trigger a keystroke on the Baby Raccoon. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Baby Raccoon has a higher force of 63 grams compared to the Semi Mute's 58 grams. This indicates that the Baby Raccoon switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience and would require a bit more force to fully press down on the key.
However, it's worth noting that both switches fall into the medium force category, meaning they are relatively lighter compared to other options available in the market. This makes them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, enabling them to type for longer periods of time without strain. So, if you are specifically looking for a switch with lighter actuation and bottom out forces, both the Baby Raccoon and Semi Mute switches would provide similar results, giving you a comfortable typing experience.
In summary, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and KTT Semi Mute linear switches differ slightly, with the Baby Raccoon being slightly heavier in both aspects. However, both switches are considered to be on the lighter side, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter and more comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the KTT Semi Mute switch is longer than the Baby Raccoon switch. The 4 mm travel distance of the Semi Mute falls into the traditional range, providing a familiar typing experience. On the other hand, the Baby Raccoon's 3.6 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a popular choice for gamers who prioritize quick response times. While both switches offer smooth linear action, the shorter travel distance of the Baby Raccoon provides a more responsive feel. However, it is worth noting that some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the Baby Raccoon to be too abrupt, preferring the deeper feel of the 4 mm travel distance offered by the KTT Semi Mute switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and individual typing needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 switch is best described as resonant, marbly, and high-pitched. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile with a clean and sharp quality. It offers an immersive auditory experience, similar to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is described as muted and neutral. Despite their completely silent operation, these switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. They minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The sound profile of these switches is moderate, making them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use them at home or work. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon switch offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing sensation. These switches provide a smooth and buttery typing experience, similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. They offer a spring-like feedback and a lively feel, giving you rebound when pressed. With pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a smooth and refined finish, these switches create an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is described as buttery and mild. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The sound and feel of these switches are more gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They stand in a safe, middle-ground zone, making them approachable to most users.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is best known for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp type feel. The switches have a resonant and marbly sound profile, offering an immersive auditory experience with a higher-pitched and clean quality. They also provide a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished feel, delivering a smooth and buttery typing experience with spring-like feedback and a refined finish. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch excels in providing a completely silent operation, minimizing noise and offering a muted sound profile. They provide a buttery and mild typing experience, featuring a smooth and fluid keystroke with a gentle and approachable feel. Both switches offer unique qualities and can cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a bright and resonant sound profile, along with a refreshingly crisp typing feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its longer switch stems and marbly characteristics, these switches offer a distinct and immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch would be more suitable. Despite their completely silent operation, these switches still provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel, thanks to their linear actuation and advanced dampening technology. Ultimately, the decision between the Baby Raccoon and Semi Mute switches depends on your preference for sound and feel, as well as the specific environment in which you'll be using them.
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