Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Baby Raccoon is a linear switch known for its vibrant and crisp typing experience. With its lengthened switch stems, it offers a refreshing tactile feel that is often described as "marbley." On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx is a tactile switch that combines the best of both worlds. It offers a refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, while remaining stealthy and quiet at the top. Each press provides a satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. While these general descriptions give an idea of the switches' characteristics, diving deeper into their nuances and specific features will help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Gazzew U4Tx switches bring distinct qualities to the overall sound profile. The Baby Raccoon features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. This material's stiffness allows for a clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched typing experience. Similarly, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both materials offer different characteristics, they cater to users seeking distinct typing sounds.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Baby Raccoon utilizes a nylon material known for its classic switch housing properties. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its softness, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, similar to that of its top housing. This "boba plastic" contributes to a rich and deep sound profile, complementing the top housing's characteristics. Thus, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience but differ in terms of the specific qualities their bottom housings bring to the table.
When examining the overall impact of the housing materials, it is essential to consider how the qualities of each material are distributed throughout the switch. For switches with different top and bottom housings, the distinct characteristics will be split between the two components. Pressing down on a switch will primarily reflect the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound produced when the key is released. Therefore, whether using the Gateron Baby Raccoon or the Gazzew U4Tx switches, the typing experience will depend on a combination of the top and bottom housing materials, each affecting different aspects of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Gateron Baby Raccoon has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the actuation force of the Gazzew U4Tx is currently unavailable. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Baby Raccoon at 63 grams and the U4Tx slightly heavier at 65 grams. For those seeking a lighter typing experience, the Baby Raccoon may be preferable, as its actuation force is relatively low. This allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Gazzew U4Tx, which offers a slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in providing different typing experiences for users.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches provide identical results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) comes in at $5.50, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50.
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 known for its bright and crisp sound signature. These switches have a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean, sharp, and best described as "marbly." It resembles tapping on a solid piece of marble or the collision of billiard balls. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a refined sound profile. It combines the deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out with the whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. This creates a satisfying tactile bump with each press, ensuring a luxurious typing experience that is acoustically pleasing. While the U4Tx has a bassy sound reminiscent of deeper tones, the Baby Raccoon offers a higher-pitched resonance. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch provides a creamy and bouncy typing experience. The switches are creamy due to lubricant applied at the factory and offer a smooth, buttery sensation. Typing feels like effortlessly gliding fingers across the keys, with each keystroke melting into the next. Additionally, the switches have a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation and rebound when pressed. They are also described as invigorating switches, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The Baby Raccoon's polished finish adds to the smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and allowing for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is described as sharp and offers a high-intensity feedback tactile bump. Each keypress provides a distinct and crisp tactile sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon provides a bright and resonant sound signature with a marbly quality and a refreshing crisp feel. Its creamy and bouncy feedback, along with a polished finish, adds to the smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx combines a deep and resonant "thock" with a whisper-quiet topping out, providing a satisfying tactile bump during keypresses. Its sound profile is described as bassy, and the switch offers a sharp and intense tactile bump. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the bright and higher-pitched sound of the Baby Raccoon or the refined and bassy sound of the U4Tx. Both switches offer a luxurious typing experience, albeit with different characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch with its 63 grams bottom out force would be a suitable choice. This switch is best known for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. The Baby Raccoon offers a marbley sound profile that is resonant, high-pitched, and clean. Additionally, it provides a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch with its 65 grams bottom out force would be a great option. The U4Tx switch marries the best of both worlds, offering a refined sound profile that combines the deep, resonant "thock" of the U4T when bottoming out with the whisper-quiet stealth of the U4 when topping out. Each keypress on the U4Tx provides a satisfying tactile bump, delivering a luxurious typing experience. Overall, your choice should depend on whether you prioritize a linear switch with a bright sound and crisp feel (Baby Raccoon), or a tactile switch with a refined sound profile and sharp tactile bump (U4Tx).
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