Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Swift both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon switches are known for their bright sound signature and crisp feel, thanks to their lengthened switch stems. Described as 'marbley', these linear switches provide a resonant and bouncy typing experience, making them ideal for those who enjoy a polished and invigorating typing feel. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switches offer a deeper sound profile with a silky smoothness attributed to their full nylon housings. The Swifts are easy-to-press with a feathery touch, making them clacky and creamy while requiring a delicate 42g actuation force. Both switches have their own unique qualities to offer, catering to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. 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
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
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Swift, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and ability to absorb sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to other harder plastics. Therefore, both switches will likely provide a pleasant typing experience with a satisfying sound when bottoming out keys.
On the other hand, while the Baby Raccoon (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, the HMX Swift utilizes nylon for its top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Raccoon (V2) creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and clarity. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the HMX Swift is more likely to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how the choice of top housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience of a switch.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Swift offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) may provide a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, the HMX Swift's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches share the quality of a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. Ultimately, the decision between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Swift is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Baby Raccoon (V2) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Swift more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their switches. Both switches fall within the medium to light range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with a tactile experience that is suitable for different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Baby Raccoon has a shorter travel distance compared to the Swift. The 0.3 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can alter the typing experience for users. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Baby Raccoon with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper keystroke feel may lean towards the Swift with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 offers a resonant, marbly sound profile that is clean, sharp, and high-pitched. This bright sound signature provides an immersive auditory experience with a distinct marble-like resonance. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch stands out with its clacky sound, producing a sharp, snappy, and percussive sound when pressed. The Swift's deeper sound profile is attributed to its full nylon housings, offering a silky smoothness that complements its delicate 42g actuation force. While both switches provide unique sound experiences, the Baby Raccoon leans towards a brighter and higher-pitched sound, while the Swift offers a deeper and snappier sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. With a smooth and buttery typing experience, these switches offer a silky sensation that glides effortlessly during keystrokes. The bouncy and invigorating feedback adds a lively feel and pronounced feedback, enhancing the typing sensation. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch is characterized by an easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy feel. The Swift offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate, reducing finger fatigue. The feathery light actuation force provides comfort for extended typing sessions, making it ideal for various activities such as gaming, school, or work. While both switches provide a smooth and comfortable typing experience, the Baby Raccoon leans towards a more invigorating and polished feel, and the Swift offers an effortless and low-impact typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the HMX Swift linear switches provide unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon offers a bright, high-pitched sound with a creamy and bouncy feel, ideal for those seeking a resonant and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift delivers a deeper, clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, suitable for users looking for a smooth and low-impact typing sensation. Depending on your sound and feel preferences, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a distinctive bright and crisp sound signature, along with a smooth and creamy typing experience, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) would be the ideal choice for you. The extended switch stems and marbly feel make it a unique option for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a deeper sound profile with easy-to-press keys, the HMX Swift linear switch would be more suitable for you. Its silky smoothness and feathery feel cater to those looking for a low-impact typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a medium bottom out force with a bright sound profile and creamy feel (Gateron Baby Raccoon V2) or a lighter bottom out force with a deeper sound profile and easy-to-press keys (HMX Swift).
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