Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile 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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile. 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, these switches provide a unique sensation that can only be described as "marbley." On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches by Wuque offer a medium level of tactility while prioritizing noise reduction, making them a great choice for office and work environments. These switches utilize stem railings with small cutouts to minimize sound, resulting in a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. Unlike traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Tactile switches do not use silicone dampeners, providing a typing experience that is free of the typical padded feel. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches, there are some notable differences. The Baby Raccoon features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Silent Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Raccoon creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that have RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Tactile elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, while both switches offer unique sound profiles, the choice between them will ultimately depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches share a common material - nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches produce a similar dull and round sound when bottoming out. The choice between the two switches then comes down to factors such as brand reputation, switch feel, and overall user experience.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housing materials play different roles in determining the overall sound profile of a switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the material used in each housing affects different aspects of the typing experience. In the case of the Baby Raccoon and the WS Silent Tactile, the differences in their top and bottom housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles when both pressing and releasing a key. Thus, those who prioritize the sound and feel during both key press and release should carefully consider the housing materials of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, there are some key differences. The Baby Raccoon has an actuation force of 55 grams, whereas the actuation force of the WS Silent Tactile is unavailable, making it difficult to determine a precise comparison. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is within the medium range.
Weight plays an important role in switch preference, as lighter switches allow for longer typing sessions and are well-suited for work or extended gaming. In contrast, some users prefer a heavier actuation force to provide a more substantial typing experience. In this aspect, the Gateron Baby Raccoon, with its known actuation force of 55 grams, would be considered lighter, while the weight of the WS Silent Tactile remains unknown. However, both switches share a similar bottom out force, resulting in comparable results in terms of typing feedback.
Overall, the Gateron Baby Raccoon offers a known lighter actuation force, while the actuation force of the WS Silent Tactile remains unclear. However, both switches share the same bottom out force, ensuring a relatively similar typing experience in terms of force required for full key press.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Baby Raccoon has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the WS Silent Tactile would be the preferable option. However, if you prefer a more substantial key press experience with a bit more depth, the Gateron Baby Raccoon, with its slightly longer travel distance, may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Silent 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 linear switch is best described as resonant, marbly, and high-pitched. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp, resembling the sound of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch is described as neutral and muted. These switches produce a moderate sound profile that is softer and quieter compared to regular switches, minimizing the usual noise associated with mechanical keyboards. While the WS Silent Tactile provides a more subdued sound experience, the Baby Raccoon offers a distinct and resonant auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is characterized as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished. With a creamy switch, you can expect a smooth and buttery typing experience, where your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys. The bouncy nature of these switches provides a spring-like feedback and lively feel, giving you a sense of rebound when pressed. Additionally, the switches offer an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The polished finish of these switches further enhances the typing experience by reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch is described as accented, invigorating, and mild. These switches provide a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, creating a pleasing and immersive typing sensation. The mild nature of these switches offers a gentler typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch stands out for its resonant sound and creamy, bouncy, and polished feel. These switches offer a bright sound signature with a clean and sharp sound profile, accompanied by a smooth and buttery typing experience that glides effortlessly across the keys. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch strikes a delicate balance between medium tactility and noise reduction. It provides a quieter typing experience with a moderate sound profile and a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. While these switches differ in their subjective qualities, both offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences. If you prefer a resonant sound and a creamy, bouncy, and polished feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon is the choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience with medium tactility, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile is an excellent option. Regardless of your choice, both switches guarantee a high-quality typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a bright sound signature and a crisp typing feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon is the perfect choice for you. Its medium bottom out force of 63 grams, combined with its lengthened switch stems, creates a marbley typing experience that is both resonant and high-pitched. This switch will provide an immersive auditory experience and a clean, sharp sound profile. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon offers a creamy and polished sensation, with smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that is suitable for an office or work environment, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile is the superior option. With a medium-heavy bottom out force and ingenious stem railings, this switch strikes a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction. It offers a muted sound profile, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, the WS Silent Tactile provides an invigorating, accented, or mild typing experience, depending on your preference. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile depends on your desired sound profile and typing feel, as well as the environment in which you will be using the switches.
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