Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gateron Silent Ink Black both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon stands out with its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems that set it apart from typical switches. Described as "marbley," this linear switch provides a distinctive experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch is a silenced version that excels in environments that require quieter typing. It delivers a cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet and comfortable typing experience. However, beyond these general characteristics, it's important to dive deeper into the specific qualities of each switch to determine the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gateron Silent Ink Black differ significantly. The Baby Raccoon features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. Although similar in terms of being high-pitched, the Silent Ink Black's sound is described as "clacky," providing a satisfying and distinct typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing, the Baby Raccoon incorporates a nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black features Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which again creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. The INK blend provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, similar to the top housing, making the switch overall consistent in its sound profile.
When it comes to the overall impact on sound and feel, the characteristics of the bottom housing are more influential during key presses. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the housing materials of the Baby Raccoon and the Silent Ink Black may differ, their influence on the typing experience is split between the top and bottom, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying outcome for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Baby Raccoon has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams, while the Silent Ink Black requires a slightly heavier 60 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that the Baby Raccoon may be more responsive for those who prefer a lighter touch, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Baby Raccoon has a force of 63 grams, while the Silent Ink Black requires an even heavier 70 grams to fully press down the key. This implies that the Silent Ink Black will give a firmer and more satisfying feel when fully depressing a key, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Baby Raccoon offers a slightly lighter bottom out force, potentially leading to a smoother and less straining typing experience for individuals who do not prefer excessive pressure.
In summary, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch. While both switches fall within the medium range, with the Silent Ink Black being slightly heavier, they provide different typing experiences. The Baby Raccoon offers a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Silent Ink Black delivers a more solid and tactile feel. So, depending on personal preference and typing style, users can select the switch that best suits their needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is clear that the Baby Raccoon has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Ink Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The most traditional travel distance is 4.0 mm, while 3.0 mm is considered the most shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become popular, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive experience, the shorter travel distance of the Baby Raccoon would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to feel too abrupt and may prefer the switch with the longer travel distance, which in this case is the Silent Ink Black. Ultimately, the decision depends on personal preference and whether you prioritize a shorter or longer travel distance for your typing or gaming needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 provides an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean and sharp, similar to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is specifically designed for quieter typing environments. It offers a muted sound, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The Silent Ink Black switch minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Raccoon switch offers a creamy and invigorating typing experience. These switches are creamy due to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used, resulting in a smooth and buttery sensation. Typing on the Baby Raccoon switch feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, with each keystroke blending seamlessly into the next. Additionally, these switches provide an invigorating feedback sensation, with moderate to firm actuation force and a snappy and reactive feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch provides a silky and polished typing experience. Silky switches offer exceptional smoothness, enhancing the overall typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Silent Ink Black switch has a smooth and refined finish, thanks to the materials used or factory lubing. With these switches, you can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon switch offers a resonant, bright sound profile and a creamy, invigorating typing experience. Meanwhile, the Silent Ink Black switch provides a muted sound and a silky, polished typing feel. Depending on your preferences and the environment you'll be using the keyboard in, you can choose between the lively and immersive experience of the Baby Raccoon switch or the quiet and smooth experience of the Silent Ink Black switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a bright and resonant sound profile with a crisp and marbly feel, then the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch would be your go-to choice. These switches are known for their lengthened stems and offer a refreshing typing experience. On the other hand, if you need a quieter typing environment with a cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, then the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is the one for you. It provides a muted sound and a silky smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing needs.
Mentioned in this article
