Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Dareu Sky V3 mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Baby Raccoon is known for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems which give it a unique 'marbley' quality. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is celebrated for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering a balance between comfort and precision. While the Baby Raccoon provides a more invigorating and bouncy typing experience, the Sky V3 caters to a more subdued and mild typing preference. 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
N/A
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Dareu Sky V3 feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the keyboard. With similar top housing materials, users can expect comparable sound profiles and typing experiences from both switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Dareu Sky V3 are made of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. This characteristic adds a different dimension to the overall typing experience, complementing the crisp sound profile created by the polycarbonate top housings of both switches.
In terms of functionality, the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials play distinct roles in the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing material has a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when keys are released. By combining polycarbonate top housings with nylon bottom housings, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Dareu Sky V3 offer a balanced typing experience with a blend of sharpness and depth in sound profiles, catering to different preferences of keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in their performance. The Baby Raccoon (V2) has a medium actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, offering a balance between light and heavy typing experiences. In contrast, the Sky V3 is lighter, with an actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Sky V3 for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Baby Raccoon (V2). Both switches provide different options to cater to individual preferences, with the actuation force determining the keystroke trigger and the bottom out force measuring the depth of the key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and comfort.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dareu Sky V3 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2). The 3.6 mm travel distance of the Baby Raccoon (V2) falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for quick response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Sky V3 provides a bit more depth and may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences in typing or gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 (V2) linear switch is known for its resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, offering a bright and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is described as having a neutral and subdued sound, providing a more moderate and dampened sound when pressed. The Baby Raccoon (V2) will give you a more resonant and sharp sound, while the Sky V3 offers a milder and more neutral sound signature that caters to a wide range of typing preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is characterized by its creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth, bouncy, feedback-rich, and refined sensation that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience, with qualities that fall in a safe, middle-ground zone for most users. The Baby Raccoon (V2) will give you a more pronounced and lively feel, while the Sky V3 offers a more subtle and approachable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a bright, resonant sound with a creamy and bouncy typing feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral and subdued sound with a mild and gentle typing feel, the Dareu Sky V3 would be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance in their respective sound and feel characteristics, allowing users to customize their typing experience to suit their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force, a resonant, marbly sound profile, and a creamy, bouncy feel, then the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile, a more subdued feel, and a mild typing experience, then the Dareu Sky V3 may be more suitable. Consider your typing preferences, desired sound and feel, and choose the switch that aligns best with what you're looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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