Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Akko V3 Silver Pro mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out for its bright sound signature and crisp typing experience, thanks to its lengthened switch stems that give it a unique "marbley" feel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is tailored towards gamers, offering smooth keystrokes with a pleasing bassy sound, along with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance for optimal gaming performance. While both switches excel in different aspects, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific use cases. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Akko V3 Silver Pro are quite similar, as both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for switches that utilize RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the overall aesthetic of the keyboard. With both switches sharing this key housing material, users can expect a consistent sound and feel when typing on either one.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials, with the Baby Raccoon (V2) utilizing nylon and the V3 Silver Pro also featuring a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While both switches share this housing material for the bottom, the slight variations in other components of the switches may lead to subtle differences in sound and feel during use.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's important to note how each material contributes to different aspects of the sound profile. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. By understanding how these materials interact with the other components of the switches, users can better appreciate the nuances in sound and feel that each switch offers. Ultimately, whether using the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) or the Akko V3 Silver Pro, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials ensures a premium typing experience with unique sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it's evident that the V3 Silver Pro is the lighter option. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has a medium actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the V3 Silver Pro boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the V3 Silver Pro requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out compared to the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2). For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) would be the better choice due to its heavier forces, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro would be ideal for those who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Baby Raccoon (V2) has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Silver Pro. In terms of feel, the shorter travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro may provide a faster response time, which can be preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the slightly longer travel distance of the Baby Raccoon (V2) may offer a more deliberate and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation point. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the keyboard market. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is well-known for its resonant and marbly qualities, providing a higher-pitched and clean sound profile that can be described as sharp and crisp. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch also offers a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp when pressed. Both switches excel in producing satisfying auditory experiences, with the Baby Raccoon providing a bright and marbley tone while the V3 Silver Pro focusing on a pleasing bassy sound, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a brighter, more resonant sound or a bassier one.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) boasts creamy and bouncy qualities, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a lively and responsive feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is described as easy-to-press and feathery, providing gentle resistance during key presses and a light actuation force for effortless and comfortable typing. Both switches deliver a smooth and polished typing experience, reducing friction and enhancing key travel for a sleek and refined feel. Whether you prefer a creamy and bouncy typing sensation or an easy-to-press and feathery one will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
Overall, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. While the Baby Raccoon provides a bright and resonant sound with a creamy and bouncy typing feel, the V3 Silver Pro focuses on a pleasing bassy sound with an easy-to-press and feathery typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize sound characteristics or typing feel, as both switches deliver exceptional performance and a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch or the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, you should take into account specific preferences and requirements. If you value a medium bottom out force and enjoy a resonant, marbly sound profile along with a creamy, bouncy, and invigorating typing feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and prioritize a high-pitched sound profile with an easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, and polished typing feel tailored for gaming and quick keystrokes, the Akko V3 Silver Pro would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, sound preferences, and the overall typing experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard switches.
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