Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect linear mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl stand out as two exceptional options, each with its own appeal. The Baby Raccoon (V2) is celebrated for its bright sound signature and a refreshingly crisp typing experience, thanks to its longer switch stems that offer a unique "marbley" feel, enhancing the tactile experience with a resonant, bouncy action. On the other hand, the WS Pearl's innovative use of ball-bearings sets it apart, resulting in an extraordinarily smooth keystroke with a silky texture that many users find delightful. While both switches provide a high-pitched auditory feedback and a creamy typing experience, the Baby Raccoon leans towards a more invigorating sensation, whereas the WS Pearl offers a clackier sound profile that contributes to its smooth performance. Choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference—whether you crave that marbley and polished feel of the Baby Raccoon or the silky smoothness of the WS Pearl. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, the most striking difference lies in their respective top housings. The Baby Raccoon (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer structure that produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. This characteristic makes it particularly suitable for those seeking a vibrant keypress feedback, especially in scenarios where RGB lighting is involved, thanks to its translucency. Conversely, the WS Pearl opts for a nylon top housing that creates a much deeper and more rounded sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a muted auditory experience that can be preferred by users who enjoy a more subdued typing sound.
Both switches share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. This consistency allows them to produce a fuller sound and tactile experience when bottoming out, as nylon is known for its deeper acoustic properties. Both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the WS Pearl benefit from the same sound-dampening qualities of nylon in their bottoms, which fosters a seamless and rounded auditory response. This shared characteristic means that while the top sounds may vary, the overall typing experience remains consistent in terms of depth and fullness when the switch is pressed down.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials results in distinct sound profiles and tactile sensations that cater to different typing preferences. Users of the Baby Raccoon (V2) will enjoy a sharper elevation during key release due to the polycarbonate top, while the users of the WS Pearl will appreciate the cushioned and softened sound attributed to the nylon top. Despite this contrast, both switches leverage the shared nylon bottom housing to ensure that the fundamentals of bottom-out feedback remain solid and pleasant, enhancing the overall typing experience regardless of the differences found in their top housings.
Weight
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches differ significantly in their actuation force, with the Baby Raccoon requiring a heftier 55 grams to register a keystroke compared to the much lighter 30 grams of the WS Pearl. This makes the WS Pearl a more suitable choice for users who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to actuate. In contrast, the Baby Raccoon provides a firmer push feel that may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Regarding the bottom out force, the Baby Raccoon features a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the WS Pearl's bottom out force is recorded at 58 grams. This means the Baby Raccoon is comparatively heavier overall. Therefore, if you're seeking a lighter switch for ease of use, the WS Pearl is your go-to option, whereas the Baby Raccoon would be preferable for those who appreciate a more robust keystroke sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches, it is evident that the Baby Raccoon (V2) has a slightly longer travel distance at 3.6 mm, while the WS Pearl measures at 3.5 mm. This distinction means that the Baby Raccoon (V2) may provide a more pronounced feel when pressing down a key, which some users appreciate for its deeper engagement. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the WS Pearl can be favored by gamers who prioritize rapid response times, allowing for quicker actuation and potentially faster gameplay. Ultimately, if you desire a more satisfying depth in your keystrokes, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) would be the preferable choice, whereas if you lean towards responsiveness and agility in your typing or gaming experience, the WS Pearl is the way to go.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00.
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, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl exhibit a high-pitched sound profile that contributes to their crisp auditory experience. The Baby Raccoon is characterized by its resonant, bright tone, delivering a clean and sharp sound with a marbly texture. This quality results in a distinctly immersive and vibrant acoustic experience, lending itself to users who appreciate clarity and brightness in a switch's auditory feedback. The WS Pearl, on the other hand, also produces a high-pitched and clacky sound that is described as snappy and percussive, further enhancing the tactile experience with its marbly and resonant characteristics. While both switches share similarities in sound, the Baby Raccoon's sharper resonance contrasts slightly with the WS Pearl's clackiness, creating a dynamic auditory palette for users to explore.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) presents a thoroughly invigorating typing sensation that combines creamy smoothness with a bouncy and polished finish. The longer switch stems contribute to a lively and responsive actuation, allowing for a satisfying feedback with each keystroke that makes typing feel both effortless and engaging. The WS Pearl also delivers a notably creamy and silky typing experience, enhanced further by its unique ball-bearing design that significantly reduces friction, resulting in an exceptionally smooth keystroke. Both switches provide a remarkably pleasant tactile quality, with the Baby Raccoon leaning towards a more interactive and bouncy feedback, while the WS Pearl emphasizes a seamless gliding sensation.
In conclusion, when comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, one finds a fascinating interplay of sound and feel that caters to different typing preferences. While both switches share elevated high-pitched sounds and creamy qualities, the Baby Raccoon stands out with its resonant acoustics and invigorating feedback, whereas the WS Pearl excels in providing an exceptionally smooth, nearly frictionless stroke. Choosing between these two would ultimately come down to whether you prefer a more engaging and responsive feel or a more streamlined and ultra-smooth typing experience. Either option promises an enjoyable mechanical keyboard journey, and users can expect similar results in terms of high-pitched acoustics and creamy sensations; the nuances lie in the details of their individual characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches, your preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics should guide your choice. If you enjoy a typing experience that is bright and resonant with a distinctly marbley feedback, the Baby Raccoon (V2) will likely be more appealing to you. Its unique longer stems contribute to a lively feel, making every keystroke invigorating and bouncy—ideal for those who appreciate tactile feedback in a linear switch. On the other hand, if you prioritize an ultra-smooth typing experience with minimal friction, the WS Pearl is an exceptional choice. Featuring ball-bearing technology, it promises a silky-smooth key feel that minimizes resistance, making it perfect for extended typing sessions or fast-paced gaming. Sound-wise, both switches provide a high-pitched auditory experience, but the WS Pearl leans towards a clacky and marbly sound, while the Baby Raccoon (V2) offers a more resonant tone. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize that fulfilling "marbley" feel or the near-gliding sensation that the WS Pearl provides.
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