Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. TKC Tangerine

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the TKC Tangerine. The Baby Raccoon is a linear switch that is best known for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing feel. With lengthened switch stems that are 0.64mm longer than typical stems, these switches offer a unique and marbley experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine is also a linear switch that aims to elevate your typing experience to the next level. With an incredibly smooth feel, each keystroke is a pleasure to type, thanks in part to the rare UHWMPE housings. While both switches share some similarities such as a polished finish, they differ in their sound characteristics, with the Baby Raccoon offering a resonant and marbly sound, while the Tangerine provides a high-pitched clack. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) Linear

TKC Tangerine Linear

$5.50 per 10

$6.30 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the TKC Tangerine differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Baby Raccoon features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE top housing, a newer material that offers a very bright sound signature and resonant clacks when typing. While both materials contribute to a distinct sound, the polycarbonate of the Baby Raccoon leans towards a sharper profile, while the UHWMPE of the Tangerine provides a brighter sound.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Baby Raccoon incorporates a nylon material, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE bottom housing, which also contributes to its bright sound signature and resonant clacks. Despite their different compositions, both materials enhance the overall sound characteristics of their respective switches. However, the difference lies in the depth and resonance of the Baby Raccoon's nylon bottom housing compared to the brightness provided by the UHWMPE of the Tangerine.

When comparing the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of the bottom and top housings are distinct. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning the sound produced when a key is fully pressed down. The Baby Raccoon's nylon bottom housing, with its softer composition, likely contributes to a more cushioned and rounded bottom-out experience. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. Here, the polycarbonate of the Baby Raccoon and the UHWMPE of the Tangerine would showcase their unique qualities, with the former offering a sharper, higher-pitched sound, and the latter providing a bright and resonant clack when keys are released.

In conclusion, while both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the TKC Tangerine have different housing materials, they each add distinct characteristics to the overall sound profile of the switches. The polycarbonate and nylon of the Baby Raccoon contribute to a sharper and deeper sound, respectively, while the UHWMPE material of the Tangerine offers a bright and resonant sound. Additionally, the bottom housing of each switch affects the bottom-out sound and feel, with the nylon of the Baby Raccoon likely providing a softer and more cushioned experience, while the UHWMPE of the Tangerine adds a bright and clacky bottom-out sound. Ultimately, these differences showcase the unique qualities of each switch's housing materials and allow users to choose their preferred sound and typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the Baby Raccoon requires 55 grams of force, while the Tangerine's actuation force is unavailable. This means that for those who prefer a lighter touch, the Baby Raccoon may be a more suitable option as it requires a lower force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Tangerine's actuation force remains unknown, so it is difficult to determine how it compares in this aspect.

Moving on to the bottom out force, both switches have a bottom out force in the medium range. The Baby Raccoon requires 63 grams of force to fully depress the key, while the Tangerine requires 62 grams. This means that for those who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, the Baby Raccoon may be a better choice as it has a slightly higher bottom out force. However, the difference of just 1 gram between the two switches is minimal and might not be noticeable in practical usage.

Weight is an important consideration when choosing between these switches. Those who prefer a lighter feel to avoid fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming may opt for the Baby Raccoon, which has a lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push might lean towards switches with heavier forces. Overall, the Baby Raccoon offers a slightly lighter actuation force, while the Tangerine's actuation force remains unknown. However, both switches have a comparable bottom out force in the medium range.

Travel distance

The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Baby Raccoon has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Tangerine. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who desire faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Gateron Baby Raccoon may be the better choice due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, the TKC Tangerine with its 4 mm travel distance might provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the level of depth and responsiveness desired in typing.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is best known for its bright and marbly sound signature. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. The lengthened switch stems contribute to the crisp and refreshing type feel, giving the sensation of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch offers an incredibly smooth feel that enhances the typing experience. The UHWMPE housings, a rarity in bespoke mechanical switches, contribute to the smoothness of each keystroke. However, the Tangerine switch has a fairly high-pitched clack when typing on them.

Comparing the two switches in terms of sound, both the Baby Raccoon and Tangerine have high-pitched profiles. The Baby Raccoon is described as resonant, marbly, and high-pitched, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. The Tangerine switch, on the other hand, is also high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience. The creamy switch provides a smooth and buttery sensation, giving the feeling of effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. The bouncy nature of the switch adds a spring-like or elastic feedback, creating a lively feel and rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch is described as frictionless, buttery, and polished. The frictionless nature of the switch minimizes any sense of resistance or friction, resulting in an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. The buttery switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and TKC Tangerine linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Baby Raccoon produces a bright and marbly sound with a crispy type feel, making it a solid choice for those seeking a resonant and high-pitched auditory experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch provides an incredibly smooth feel and a fairly high-pitched clack, enhancing the overall typing experience. While both switches offer desirable qualities, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also affect the sound and feel of the switches. By carefully considering these factors, newcomers can make an informed decision that aligns with their personal preferences and typing style.

Conclusion

To sum up, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is a medium-weight switch known for its bright and crisp typing feel. With their lengthened switch stems, these switches offer a unique "marbley" sensation that is both refreshing and satisfying. In terms of sound, the Baby Raccoon switches have a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is also a medium-weight switch with a reputation for taking your typing experience to the next level. These switches are highly praised for their incredibly smooth feel, thanks to the UHWMPE housings. While typing on the Tangerine switches, you can expect a fairly high-pitched clack sound. Additionally, the Tangerine switches are described as having a frictionless and buttery feel, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation.

Ultimately, when choosing between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and TKC Tangerine linear switches, it depends on your preferences. If you value a bright and crisp typing feel with a resonant sound profile, the Baby Raccoons are a great option. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with a frictionless feel, the Tangerines will be a perfect choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so consider your preferences and needs to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. In the end, the choice is yours to make.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) Linear

$5.50 per 10

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TKC Tangerine Linear

$6.30 per 10

Learn more