Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options worth considering are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the TTC Silent Bluish White. On one hand, the Baby Raccoon is a linear switch known for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing feel. With lengthened switch stems, these switches offer a unique "marbley" experience, making them stand out from the crowd. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying level of resistance when pressed, resulting in a precise and comfortable typing experience. These switches are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them ideal for office or shared living spaces. Both switches have their own distinct advantages, allowing you to choose based on your preferred typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon and the TTC Silent Bluish White both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice results in a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound. The use of polycarbonate lends a clear and resonant quality to the sound produced. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the transparency of polycarbonate, making it ideal for those who want to showcase RGB lighting effects.
On the other hand, the Baby Raccoon and the Silent Bluish White differ in their bottom housing material. The Baby Raccoon features a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the typing experience by producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, thereby creating a dulled and rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches benefit from the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon, contributing to a satisfying typing experience.
It's important to note that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housing materials are divided between the two switches. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when the key is released. Therefore, choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the TTC Silent Bluish White depends on individual preferences for the sound and feel during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, it's clear that there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Baby Raccoon is 55 grams, while the Silent Bluish White requires a lighter 42 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This means that the Silent Bluish White provides a lighter and more effortless typing experience compared to the Baby Raccoon. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Baby Raccoon is 63 grams, whereas the Silent Bluish White requires a lesser 50 grams to fully press down the switch. Overall, the Silent Bluish White can be considered as a lighter switch compared to the Baby Raccoon, making it ideal for those who prefer a more feather-light typing sensation, especially for long typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. However, for those seeking a more substantial and pronounced typing experience, the Baby Raccoon's slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces may be more suitable. Thus, while both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, users can choose based on their personal preferences for either a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, it is evident that there is a slight difference between the two. The Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Bluish White has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Although both switches offer relatively short travel distances, the Silent Bluish White stands out as the one with the shorter distance. For those who prioritize faster response times, the Silent Bluish White may be the preferred option due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, for individuals who appreciate a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key, the Baby Raccoon may be a better choice with its marginally longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is best known for its bright and resonant sound signature. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. They offer an immersive auditory experience similar to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. These switches are designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making them perfect for office or shared living spaces.
In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon linear switch is known for its creamy and invigorating typing experience. They offer a silky sensation, like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, thanks to lubricant applied at the factory and specific materials. These switches also provide a bouncy and lively feel, giving you rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White tactile switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience. They provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in a seamless and uniform typing sensation. These switches have a gentle resistance and a safe middle-ground zone in terms of their sound and feel, making them approachable to most users.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Baby Raccoon linear switch has a bright, resonant sound profile and a creamy, bouncy, and invigorating feel. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White tactile switch has a muted sound profile and a buttery, mild, and stepped feel. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose either switch to achieve similar results. Consider factors such as your choice of board and keycaps to further customize your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a bright and resonant sound profile with a clean and sharp sound, then the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is the one for you. Its lengthened switch stems contribute to its distinctive "marbley" feel, providing a refreshingly crisp typing experience. This switch also offers a creamy and bouncy tactile feel, giving you a smooth and invigorating typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience, especially in office or shared living spaces, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is the better option. Despite its medium tactility, it offers a satisfying level of resistance when pressed, providing a precise and comfortable typing feel. Its sound profile is muted, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Additionally, this switch has a buttery and mild feel, offering a smooth and gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch depends on your preferences for sound and feel. Consider whether you prefer a bright and resonant sound or a quieter, more muted sound. Additionally, think about whether you prefer a creamy and bouncy feel or a buttery and mild feel. By considering these factors, you can select the switch that best suits your typing needs.
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