Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon stands out with its bright sound signature and crisp typing experience, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. With a marbly feel, these linear switches are known for being resonant, high-pitched, and invigorating. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring by Aflion excels in providing a medium level of tactility. Its lower actuation and bottom-out force offer an approachable tactile experience, accompanied by a deep and thocky sound profile. If you prioritize a refreshing and polished linear switch, the Baby Raccoon is a great choice. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision based on your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches share many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it a preferred choice for those who value auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for users who plan to incorporate RGB lighting into their keyboard setup.
However, the two switches differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Baby Raccoon utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate emphasizes clarity and resonance, adding to the overall typing experience.
It is important to note that the difference in housing materials ultimately affects the sound and feel of the switches. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the respective bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing contributes more to the sound produced upon releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique acoustic characteristics that can enhance the typing experience based on individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Baby Raccoon has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams. This means that the Baby Raccoon requires a bit more pressure to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom-out force, the Baby Raccoon again takes the lead with 63 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 55 grams. Therefore, the Baby Raccoon provides a more substantial typing experience as it requires a stronger push for both actuation and bottoming out. However, it is worth noting that both switches fall into the medium-weight category, so users can still expect a relatively comfortable typing experience from either option. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier switch ultimately depends on their personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have different travel distances. The Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring falls within the average range of 4.0 mm, while the Baby Raccoon offers a slightly shorter travel distance. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the Baby Raccoon with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and deeper feeling when pressing down on a key may find the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring more suitable with its longer travel distance. It is important to consider personal preferences and the desired level of responsiveness when choosing between these two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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 linear switch is best described as resonant, marbly, and high-pitched. When typing on these switches, users can expect a higher-pitched sound profile that offers an immersive and clean auditory experience. The sound is sharp and crisp, comparable to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also depend on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon switch is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. These switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, reminiscent of gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. They provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. The switches also offer pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. Additionally, the switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as bouncy, providing a similar spring-like or elastic feedback sensation as the Baby Raccoon switch.
From the available information, it is clear that the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch offers a unique sound profile characterized by a resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound. It also provides a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with spring-like feedback. On the other hand, limited information is available about the sound and feel of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch. However, based on the mentioned bouncy feedback, users may expect a similar rebound and spring-like sensation when pressing the keys. It is worth noting that the final experience of both switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a bright, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Baby Raccoon is the ideal choice for you. With its lengthened switch stems, it provides a refreshingly crisp typing feel reminiscent of tapping on a solid piece of marble or two billiard balls colliding. The Baby Raccoon is also described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is the recommended option. It offers a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable and comfortable to use with a moderate level of tactility. While information about its sound profile is not provided, it is safe to expect a satisfying tactile experience coupled with a pleasant sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Consider your desired bottom-out force, sound profile, and level of tactility to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
