Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are numerous options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Two popular switches that stand out in the market are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Durock T1. The Baby Raccoon is a linear switch that is best known for its bright sound signature and refreshing crisp typing feel. This is achieved through its lengthened switch stems, making it 0.64mm longer than typical stems. The result? A switch that can be described as resonant, marbly, high-pitched, creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. On the other hand, the T1 is a tactile switch that offers superb comfort while typing. With a medium bump that is felt when pressing down, it provides a satisfying feedback. In terms of sound, it evokes the calming sensation of rain falling on a window. This switch can be categorized as stepped, low-pitched, neutral, accented, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Durock T1 feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic when using either switch.
On the other hand, the Baby Raccoon and the T1 have different bottom housing materials. The Baby Raccoon utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the T1 also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches should provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
When it comes to the overall sound and feel of the switch, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom housings. Pressing down on the switch will primarily be influenced by the characteristics of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be more influenced by the properties of the top housing. Therefore, while the specific materials used may differ between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Durock T1, users can expect a comparable typing experience overall.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Firstly, in terms of weight, the Baby Raccoon is lighter, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, both falling into the medium range. The T1, on the other hand, has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Baby Raccoon would be a suitable option, as it allows for comfortable typing over extended periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the T1 offers a slightly heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. This may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a tactile feedback that requires a stronger force.
However, since the actuation force of the T1 is not provided, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Nevertheless, based on the bottom out force, we can conclude that the T1 is slightly heavier than the Baby Raccoon. Therefore, for those seeking a switch with a heavier force, the T1 would be the recommended choice.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on the user's personal preferences. While the Baby Raccoon offers a lighter typing experience, the T1 provides a more substantial and tactile feel. Both switches will provide satisfactory results, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have contrasting travel distances. The Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Baby Raccoon's travel distance is shorter, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the T1 offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Both switches provide different tactile experiences, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 linear switch is best characterized as resonant, marbly, and high-pitched. Typing on these switches provides a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp, offering an immersive auditory experience. The marbly adjective can be understood by imagining tapping on a solid piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as low-pitched and neutral in terms of sound. Low-pitched switches generally produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The T1 provides a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you're using them at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience. Creamy switches are smooth and buttery, providing a silky sensation due to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials. Bouncy switches offer a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, with lively keys that give a rebound when pressed. An invigorating switch provides pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. And finally, a polished switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in sleek typing experiences with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished in terms of feel. Stepped switches have a mild tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, unlike hypertactile switches that have a single prominent bump throughout the keystroke. Accented switches provide a medium level of tactility, giving a prominent amount of feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. And like the Baby Raccoon, the T1 also features polished switches for a smooth and refined typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch offers a bright sound signature with a refreshing and crisp type feel. The longer switch stems contribute to their marbley quality, resulting in an extraordinary linear switch experience. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch provides a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Although they have different qualities, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience. If you prefer a resonant and high-pitched sound with a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon is the recommended choice. However, if you prefer a low-pitched sound with a stepped, accented, and polished feel, the Durock T1 would be a suitable alternative.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you are someone who prefers a linear switch with a bright sound signature and a refreshingly crisp typing feel, then the Gateron Baby Raccoon switches would be a great choice for you. With their lengthened switch stems, these switches offer a unique "marbley" experience, providing a clean and sharp sound profile that is resonant and high-pitched. Additionally, the Baby Raccoon switches have a creamy and polished feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that is super comfortable to type on, then the Durock T1 switches would be a suitable option. These switches feature a medium bump when pressed, providing a satisfying tactile feedback. The sound of the T1 switches is described as low-pitched, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. In terms of feel, the T1 switches can be described as either stepped or accented, providing a mild tactile experience that is not overwhelming but still prominent. Similar to the Baby Raccoon switches, the T1 switches also offer a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switches and the Durock T1 tactile switches depends on your personal preference. Consider factors such as sound profile, typing feel, and the level of tactile feedback you desire. Both switches have their unique characteristics that can greatly enhance your typing experience.
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