Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Huano Strawberry Latte offer distinct experiences despite both being linear switches. The Baby Raccoons are celebrated for their captivating sound signature and uniquely crisp typing feel, enhanced by their longer switch stems that contribute to a "marbley" typing experience, making them a great option for users who enjoy a brighter and more invigorating keyboard interaction. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte presents a super smooth performance with a well-balanced sound profile, not too quiet yet not overly resonant, appealing to those who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback with a focus on seamless key presses. Whether you're drawn to the lively character of the Baby Raccoons or the refined smoothness of the Strawberry Lattes, each switch caters to different preferences in typing style and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and Huano Strawberry Latte switches showcase distinct materials in their top housings, leading to different sound and aesthetic characteristics. The Baby Raccoon (V2) utilizes polycarbonate, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This translucency of polycarbonate enhances its suitability for RGB lighting setups, allowing for visually striking effects while producing a more resonant sound. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte features a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and durability. The POK material, with its higher coefficient of friction compared to other plastics, ensures that the actuating feel of the switch is optimized for smoothness, albeit producing a different tonal quality when compared to the polycarbonate of the Baby Raccoon.
Both switches, however, share a commonality in their bottom housing material: nylon. This material is well-regarded in the keyboard community for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, the nylon components of both switches contribute to a more muted and rounded auditory experience, blunting the sharper audio effects created by their respective top housings. The similarity in the bottom housing provides an underlying consistency in the typing feel, allowing users to experience a rounded sound profile regardless of the contrasting sound characteristics imparted by the top materials.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and Huano Strawberry Latte lead to unique auditory and tactile experiences. The crispness of polycarbonate pairs with the smoothness of POK to create distinct upper sound profiles, while the shared nylon bottom housing standardizes the deeper sound quality in both, ensuring users will achieve comparable bottom-out feedback. This combination of complementary and contrasting housing materials presents an opportunity for enthusiasts to fine-tune their preferred auditory and tactile experiences in keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Raccoon (V2) features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, categorizing it as a medium force switch. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lightweight option. This distinction means that users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions would likely gravitate toward the Strawberry Latte, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might find the Baby Raccoon (V2) more satisfying. Thus, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) would be the heavier switch, while the Huano Strawberry Latte is the lighter choice, catering to different preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch both have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, both switches offer a similar tactile experience in terms of how much distance the key moves during a press. Consequently, users can expect consistent feedback and responsiveness from both switches, making them equally viable options for those seeking a linear switch with this specific travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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) offers a distinctive auditory experience marked by its resonant and high-pitched qualities. This bright sound signature is designed to engage the user, providing a clean and sharp auditory feedback that can lead to an immersive typing experience. The marbly descriptor emphasizes the overall clarity and crispness, evoking images of solid objects like marble striking each other, which could be quite satisfying for those who appreciate high-frequency sounds. On the other hand, while the sound profile of the Huano Strawberry Latte isn't explicitly detailed, it is mentioned to possess a balanced sound that isn't overly resonant or quiet. Therefore, while the Baby Raccoon (V2) stands out for its specific high-pitched characteristics, the Strawberry Latte likely delivers a more neutral auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) is characterized by a range of pleasant attributes including creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished sensations. These qualities coalesce to create an inviting typing experience that is both smooth and responsive. The creamy feel implies a buttery texture that enhances the overall tactile satisfaction, while the bouncy and invigorating descriptions suggest a lively and engaging feedback, making each keystroke enjoyable. The polished nature of these switches further reduces friction, contributing to an efficient typing experience. The feel of the Huano Strawberry Latte, however, is not elaborated on, leaving a gap in direct comparison. Therefore, one might expect the feel to vary from the distinct sensations provided by the Baby Raccoon (V2).
In summary, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is notable for its crisp, resonant sound and an invigorating, smooth typing feel that many users may find superior for both auditory and tactile engagement. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte offers a more balanced auditory profile without the same level of detail regarding its tactile feedback but could potentially align well with users who prefer a subtler experience. Ultimately, both switches could cater to different preferences, with the Baby Raccoon (V2) providing a more pronounced experience while the Strawberry Latte may appeal to those who appreciate a less intense sound while typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more tactile experience with a slightly higher actuation force, the Baby Raccoon (V2) might be the right choice for you, especially if you appreciate a bright, resonant sound profile combined with a creamy, bouncy typing feel. This switch is particularly suited for those who like to feel a bit more feedback and enjoy the unique marbly sensation during their typing sessions. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch and prioritize smoothness over tactile engagement, the Strawberry Latte is likely your best bet. With its lower bottom-out force and smooth actuation, it provides a balanced sound profile that fits seamlessly into a more quiet office ambiance, making it ideal for long typing sessions where fatigue can set in. Ultimately, whether you choose the Baby Raccoon (V2) for its invigorating feel and vibrant sound or the Strawberry Latte for its buttery smooth experience will depend on your typing preferences and environment.
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