Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear. The Baby Raccoon is characterized by a bright sound signature and a refreshingly crisp type feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. These linear switches can be best described as "marbley" and fall under categories such as 'Resonant', 'Marbly', and 'High-pitched'. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear is an innovative switch known for its whisper-quiet topping-out sound and clacky bottom-out sound. It offers a silky smooth type feel that is not over-polished and is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Neutral', and 'Buttery'. Both switches have their unique qualities and can cater to different preferences. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear share similar housing materials in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, it enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial if you plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a more visually appealing experience. Thus, users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic effect from both switches.
While the top housings of the Baby Raccoon and the Semi-Silent Linear share the same material, their bottom housings differ. The Baby Raccoon features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, generating a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches benefit from the sound-absorbing properties of nylon, leading to a more satisfying typing experience in terms of sound quality.
When examining the impact of the housing materials on key presses, the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel. The properties of the bottom housing, whether it is nylon or polycarbonate, greatly influence the tactile feedback experienced when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing has a more pronounced impact on the sound produced when a key is released. The qualities of the polycarbonate top housing, such as its stiffness, contribute to the crisp and resonant sound when letting go of a key. Therefore, considering the differences in housing materials, users can expect varying tactile and auditory experiences when using the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall under the medium category in terms of force required. The actuation force of the Baby Raccoon is 55 grams, while the Semi-Silent Linear's actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a similar level of resistance when fully pressed.
Considering weight and typing experience, those who prefer a lighter switch will find the Baby Raccoon more suitable, as the lighter actuation force of 55 grams allows for extended typing periods and is ideal for those who use their keyboards frequently, whether for work or gaming. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and pronounced typing experience may opt for the Semi-Silent Linear, as it potentially offers a stronger push feel.
While the actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear is unknown, its bottom out force aligns with that of the Baby Raccoon, suggesting that the overall typing experience may be similar between the two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences – whether one favors a lighter keystroke or a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it can be observed that the Baby Raccoon has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Although the difference between them is minimal, it can still be relevant in certain situations. For gamers looking for faster response times and a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Baby Raccoon may be preferred. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a deeper key press and find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, the switch with the longer travel distance, the Semi-Silent Linear, would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it becomes evident that these switches offer different sound profiles. The Baby Raccoon switch is best described as resonant, marbly, and high-pitched. This means that when typing on these switches, users can expect a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean, sharp, and immersive. It can be likened to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as subdued and neutral. This indicates that it produces a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. It falls in the moderate range in terms of actuation force requirement and sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Baby Raccoon switch is characterized as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. Typing on these switches provides a smooth and buttery experience, thanks to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. The keystrokes feel silky and effortless, offering a gliding sensation. Additionally, these switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The tactile feedback is pronounced, and the actuation force is moderate to firm, resulting in a snappy and reactive typing experience. The polished finish of these switches further enhances the smoothness and sleekness of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. It offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of these switches are approachable to most as they stand in a safe middle-ground zone. The switches are super responsive due to longer or dual-staged springs, adding a lively feel to the typing experience. Similar to the Baby Raccoon switch, the Semi-Silent Linear switch also exhibits a buttery and polished feel, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is clear that the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon switch has a bright, resonant sound profile with a marbly and high-pitched nature, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch features a more subdued and neutral sound. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon switch offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished feel. It is important for newcomers to consider these qualities and choose the switch that aligns with their preferences. If similar subjective experiences are desired, selecting the Semi-Silent Linear switch may provide comparable results.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a bright sound signature and a refreshingly crisp type feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon is the way to go. With a bottom-out force of 63 grams, it offers a medium actuation force that is suitable for most users. The Baby Raccoon is best known for its marbley feel, characterized by its lengthened switch stems and clean, high-pitched sound profile. It provides a creamy and invigorating typing experience, with its buttery and polished feel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a semi-silent switch that offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is the ideal choice. With a bottom-out force of 62 grams, it also falls within the medium actuation force range. The Semi-Silent Linear is described as having a silky smooth type feel, with a subdued and neutral sound profile. It provides a mild and snappy typing experience, with its buttery and polished feel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a bright sound signature and a crisp type feel, the Baby Raccoon is the switch for you. However, if you prefer a semi-silent switch with a smooth and subtle sound profile, the Semi-Silent Linear will be more suitable. Both switches offer a medium actuation force and a polished feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
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