HMX Game1989 vs. Aflion Carrot

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two intriguing options stand out: the HMX 1989 and the Aflion Carrot. The HMX 1989 is a linear switch best known for its deep and thocky characteristics, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prefer a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile feedback. In contrast, the Aflion Carrot is a playful tactile switch that features a long, two-stage spring, providing a unique bouncy experience and a mid-pitched, firm sound profile that many users find satisfying. This switch is particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more dynamic typing feel and sound. While the HMX 1989 excels in providing a straightforward, linear experience, the Carrot switch offers the delightful combination of tactile feedback with an engaging audio response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing needs.

By the numbers

HMX Game1989 Linear

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX 1989 and the Aflion Carrot feature strikingly similar materials for their switch housings, particularly in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches boast a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic stems from the inherent stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for enhanced clarity and resonance in sound. Notably, both the HMX 1989 and the Aflion Carrot leverage the translucency of polycarbonate effectively, making them excellent choices for RGB lighting applications. As a result, consumers can expect a visually appealing aesthetic along with a similar auditory experience when utilizing either switch.

The bottom housing of the HMX 1989 and the Aflion Carrot is constructed from nylon, a classic choice for switch housing material that contributes distinct tonal qualities. The use of nylon in the bottom housing leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon absorbs more sound due to its relatively softer composition. This absorbs sound waves, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Both switches offer a harmonious balance of sound profiles, with the nylon bottom housing dictating the sound during key presses while the top housing plays a significant role when releasing the keys.

In summary, while the HMX 1989 and the Aflion Carrot utilize different materials for their housing components, both switches provide a consistent auditory experience due to the shared qualities of polycarbonate and nylon. The combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing allows each switch to create a unique sound profile characterized by both crispness and depth. This complementary pairing results in an overall smooth and engaging typing experience, where users can appreciate both the sharpness during key release and the fullness during key presses. Ultimately, whether choosing the HMX 1989 or the Aflion Carrot, users can expect remarkably similar performance and sound quality due to the parallels in their housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch with its actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 53 grams to the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, which features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, we observe differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 requires a slightly heavier actuation force, making it feel more substantial during typing, while the Aflion Carrot offers a lighter and more delicate touch, suitable for prolonged use without fatigue. In terms of bottom out forces, the HMX 1989 also has a higher measurement at 53 grams compared to the Carrot's 45 grams, contributing further to the heavier feel overall. Consequently, those who prefer a lighter switch for extended usage may lean towards the Aflion Carrot, whereas users seeking a more tactile and robust typing experience might find the HMX 1989 to be their preferable option.

Travel distance

The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, making them identical in terms of how far each switch travels when pressed. This similarity means that users can expect comparable feedback and responsiveness when typing or gaming, as both switches require the same amount of distance to register a keypress. Since their travel distances are equal, users will experience similar actuation depth and overall key feel with either switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is celebrated for its unique qualities, though specific descriptors are lacking. In contrast, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a distinctive sound profile characterized as clacky and high-pitched. The clacky operation gives it a sharp, bright, and percussive tone, which can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy an audible feedback while typing. This high-pitched nature also works well for users who prefer a sound that isn't as bass-heavy, making it a notable choice for those seeking a lighter auditory experience while typing.

In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for its thocky feedback, which implies a smooth and cushioned keystroke likely conducive to both gaming and extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Carrot switch presents a lively tactile experience due to its long, two-stage spring design. This offers users a bouncy, snappy response, ensuring that every keystroke feels engaging and responsive. The additional stepping sensation provides users with a multifaceted tactile feedback that strikes a balance between being pronounced without overwhelming, while the overall experience remains quite light, contributing to reduced finger fatigue during lengthy usage.

In summary, while both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch cater to distinct preferences in the realms of sound and feel, they serve different types of users. The HMX 1989 emphasizes a deep and thocky sound and a smooth keystroke experience ideal for those who prefer a linear switch, while the Carrot’s clacky sound and bouncy, snappy feel lend themselves to a more tactile and lively typing experience. Your choice will ultimately depend on whether you favor an audible click with tactile feedback or a seamless sound experience with linear action, ensuring that your typing or gaming experiences are tailored perfectly to your liking.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a deeper, thocky sound and a medium-light feel that provides a satisfying keystroke without being overly forceful, the HMX 1989 might be the ideal choice for you, especially if you are engaged in activities like gaming where precision and feedback matter. On the other hand, if you seek a playful and bouncy typing experience, the Carrot offers a light actuation force combined with a unique two-stage spring design that delivers both responsiveness and an engaging tactile feedback. Its clacky sound profile and lively feel are perfect for those who enjoy a more interactive typing experience, whether for casual use, work, or even gaming. Therefore, weigh your typing style, sound preference, and overall comfort, and you'll find that one switch resonates with your needs over the other.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more