Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Wine Red. The Gateron Baby Raccoon is a linear switch that is best known for its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp typing feel. With its lengthened switch stems, these switches offer a unique experience that can be best described as "marbley." On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red is also a linear switch that provides a pillowy light typing feel and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile. These switches are categorized as bassy and low-pitched. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that make them desirable. 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
44g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Baby Raccoon and the KTT Wine Red both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics due to their shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Baby Raccoon features a nylon material while the Wine Red continues to use polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Baby Raccoon offers a different typing experience compared to the Wine Red. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer material creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a distinct typing sensation. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Wine Red aligns with the qualities of the top housing, producing a sharper and crisper sound profile.
In terms of the overall typing experience, the difference in housing materials between the Baby Raccoon and the Wine Red leads to contrasting sensations. While both switches exhibit the sharp and crisp sound characteristics of polycarbonate in their top housing, the choice of materials in the bottom housing separates them. The Baby Raccoon's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, offering a unique typing experience. Alternatively, the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and crisp sound profile associated with the top housing material. These distinctions indicate that the two switches will provide contrasting typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is evident that they both fall into the medium range. However, there are slight differences to note. The Gateron Baby Raccoon has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Wine Red's 44 grams. Similarly, the Baby Raccoon also has a higher bottom out force of 63 grams compared to the Wine Red's 55 grams. These variances indicate that the Baby Raccoon switch may provide a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Wine Red switch.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions, particularly for those who bring their keyboard to work or engage in extended gaming sessions. In this case, the Wine Red switch, with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces, may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience may prefer a stronger push feel, and for them, the Gateron Baby Raccoon switch, with its slightly heavier forces, may be the better option.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and KTT Wine Red switches fall into the medium range for actuation and bottom out forces, the Baby Raccoon switch offers a slightly heavier typing experience. Users looking for a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions may prefer the Wine Red, while those seeking a more substantial feel might lean towards the Baby Raccoon. As a result, users can achieve similar results with either switch by selecting the one that aligns with their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is evident that they have different distances. The Baby Raccoon has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wine Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that, in terms of travel distance, the Baby Raccoon is the shorter option compared to the Wine Red.
The difference in their travel distances may have implications depending on individual preferences. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while a shallower distance of 3.0 mm is also popular. However, the prevalence of shorter travel distances has emerged, particularly favored by gamers seeking faster response times. In this case, if one prefers a more responsive feel, the Baby Raccoon with its shorter travel distance would be the ideal choice.
On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to feel too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial and hearty keypress, the Wine Red with its longer travel distance might be more suitable.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Baby Raccoon and KTT Wine Red linear switches differ in their travel distances, they cater to different preferences. The Baby Raccoon offers a shorter travel distance, preferred by those seeking a more responsive experience, while the Wine Red provides a longer travel distance for individuals who enjoy a deeper and more substantial keypress.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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 linear switch is best described as resonant, marbly, and high-pitched. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched and clean sound profile, reminiscent of tapping on a solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. The sound is sharp and crisp, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is described as bassy and low-pitched. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range similar to the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. These switches provide a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a silky sensation as your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys. They offer spring-like and elastic feedback, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The Baby Raccoon switches also provide pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. The polished finish adds to the sleek and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the available information does not specify the subjective qualities of the KTT Wine Red linear switch's feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and KTT Wine Red linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon switches are known for their resonant, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, while the Wine Red switches provide a deeper and richer, bassy, and low-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon switches offer a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience, providing smoothness, feedback, rebound, and reduced friction. Unfortunately, the available information does not provide specific details about the subjective qualities of the KTT Wine Red switches' feel. However, it is important to consider that individual preferences can greatly influence the perception of sound and feel, and experimenting with different switches can help find the ideal match based on personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-bottom out force and a bright sound signature, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its lengthened switch stems, it provides a refreshingly crisp and marbley typing experience. The resonant and high-pitched sound profile of the Baby Raccoon switch offers an immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished feel of this switch enhances the overall typing sensation by offering smooth and buttery keystrokes with a spring-like feedback.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, the KTT Wine Red linear switch would be a suitable option. While there is limited information available about its feel, the Wine Red switch promises a pillowy light typing experience, potentially indicating a smooth and comfortable feel. The switch's bassy and low-pitched sound profile adds a touch of depth and richness to each keystroke.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a bright sound and a tactile typing experience, the Gateron Baby Raccoon switch would be ideal. However, if you prefer a deeper sound and a potentially smoother typing experience, the KTT Wine Red switch might be more to your liking. Consider your sound and feel preferences when making your decision, and remember to try out different switches if possible to find the one that suits you best.
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