Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2), a linear switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, a tactile switch. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is known for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems that give it a unique "marbley" sensation. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile offers a smooth and snappy tactile bump while maintaining a neutral sound signature. This makes it easy to press and provides a satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences. 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
45g
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
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful if RGB lighting is a consideration. However, the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the WS Light Tactile diverge in their bottom housing material, with the Baby Raccoon (V2) utilizing a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the WS Light Tactile also features a nylon bottom housing but with a slightly different sound quality due to the softer nature of nylon.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, the presence of polycarbonate in the top housing provides a similar sharp and resonant sound profile for both switches. The contrast in sound is more noticeable when comparing the bottom housing materials, with the Baby Raccoon's nylon bottom housing creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the WS Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing. This variation in sound profile can impact the overall typing experience and may cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile will come down to personal preferences in sound and typing feel. Both switches offer a distinct sound profile due to their polycarbonate top housings, but the difference in bottom housing materials provides a noticeable contrast in the overall sound and feel of the switches. Whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound profile from the Baby Raccoon (V2) or a deeper, fuller sound profile from the WS Light Tactile, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that the WS Light Tactile is the lighter option. The Baby Raccoon has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, whereas the WS Light Tactile has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Baby Raccoon provides a more medium feel with its slightly heavier forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile offers a lighter touch, perfect for extended periods of typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Baby Raccoon (V2) may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the WS Light Tactile's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their travel distances, so choosing between them depends on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20.
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, and high-pitched sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch presents a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various purposes with a moderate actuation force requirement. The sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch offers a creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished typing experience. This results in smooth and buttery key presses with a spring-like feedback sensation and a refined finish for sleek typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch provides a stepped and easy-to-press feel, offering mild tactility with gentle resistance during key presses, making typing effortless and comfortable for extended periods.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch provide distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Baby Raccoon (V2) excels in offering a bright and resonant sound with a creamy and bouncy typing feel, the WS Light Tactile stands out for its neutral sound profile and stepped, easy-to-press tactile sensation. Depending on personal preferences and typing requirements, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a bright, resonant sound profile with a crisp typing experience, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a tactile switch with a smooth and neutral sound signature, along with an easy-to-press and low-impact typing feel, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Baby Raccoon (V2) and the WS Light Tactile comes down to your personal typing preferences and priorities in terms of sound and feel. Consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch, and choose accordingly to enhance your typing experience.
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