Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the SP-Star Yanyu 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 SP-Star Yanyu, both of which are linear switches. The Baby Raccoon is widely known for its distinctive characteristics, including a bright sound signature and a refreshingly crisp typing experience. These switches have longer stems compared to typical switches, adding a unique marbly feel to each key press. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are more suited for those seeking a gentle typing experience or those who spend extended periods typing. The Yanyu switches offer a crisp sound profile and are made from a carefully crafted material blend. While these general descriptions provide an initial understanding, diving deeper into the details will allow you to make an informed decision about which switch is best suited for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Baby Raccoon features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Yanyu utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, providing a unique sound profile that is pleasant and brighter, though not particularly sharp.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Baby Raccoon employs a nylon material, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch uses a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its bottom housing. This blend offers a sound profile that is also unique and pleasant, albeit with a slightly brighter tone compared to the Baby Raccoon.
While both switches have different materials for their top and bottom housings, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will influence different aspects of the switch experience. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will play a more prominent role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the housing materials differ, users can expect similar high-quality results in terms of sound and feel from both the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the SP-Star Yanyu switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are notable differences. The Baby Raccoon has an actuation force of 55 grams, providing a medium level of resistance needed to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Yanyu is unknown, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Baby Raccoon requires 63 grams of force to fully press the key down, which is slightly heavier than the Yanyu's 43 grams. This means that the Baby Raccoon offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Yanyu provides a lighter touch. The weight aspect is an important consideration, as a lighter switch allows for extended typing sessions, ideal for work or long gaming sessions, while a heavier switch offers a more satisfying and impactful keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that they have different measurements. The Baby Raccoon has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Yanyu has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. These variances in travel distance can greatly affect the typing experience. For individuals seeking a more responsive typing experience, the Baby Raccoon with its shorter travel distance would be the ideal choice. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press and a deeper feeling may find the Yanyu switch with its longer travel distance more appealing. It is important to consider personal preferences and requirements when deciding between these two switches, as they offer different typing sensations.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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
The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is best known for its bright and resonant sound signature. When typing on a Baby Raccoon switch, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. The extended switch stems contribute to its unique "marbly" sound, which can be likened to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile. It produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or using the switch at home or work. Additionally, the Yanyu switch can generate a thocky sound when pressed, giving it a deep and satisfying tone. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon switch provides a creamy and invigorating typing experience. The creamy sensation is due to smooth key travel, either from lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used. It creates a buttery and effortless feel, allowing your fingers to glide across the keys with ease. Additionally, the Baby Raccoon switch offers a bouncy feedback sensation, giving the keys a spring-like and lively feel. It provides a pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience. It has a gentle resistance, not too light but still maintaining a lightweight feel. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, the Gateron Baby Raccoon and SP-Star Yanyu switches have distinct differences in sound and feel. The Baby Raccoon switch offers a resonant and marbly sound profile, while the Yanyu switch provides a more neutral sound with the option for a thocky tone. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon switch offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience, while the Yanyu switch provides a mild and feathery feel. Both switches also have a polished finish, contributing to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. Depending on personal preferences, the Baby Raccoon switch is ideal for those seeking a bright and crisp typing experience, while the Yanyu switch is suitable for those looking for a more delicate and comfortable typing experience. In both cases, the polished finish ensures smooth key travel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a bright, marbley sound signature, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is the perfect choice for you. These switches offer a refreshingly crisp typing experience with their longer switch stems. They are characterized by a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon switches are described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, offering a smooth and polished typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a delicate typing experience, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is the ideal option. These switches are perfect for long typing sessions as they require little exertion from your fingers, reducing finger fatigue. They have a light and subtle feel with a crisp sound profile. The Yanyu switches are described as neutral, thocky, mild, feathery, and polished, offering a safe middle-ground typing experience with reduced strain on your fingers.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Baby Raccoon and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a bright, marbley sound profile, go for the Baby Raccoon switches. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a delicate typing experience, opt for the Yanyu switches. Both switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience with their respective characteristics. So, choose the one that aligns with your desired sound and feel.
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