Dareu Aqua vs. Aflion Carrot
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Carrot switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, it's clear that each has its own unique features and characteristics. The Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, making it easy-to-press and delivering a chirpy and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Carrot offers users a bouncy tactile experience with its long, two-stage spring, along with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. While the Aqua is known for its light touch and distinctive sound, the Carrot provides a more tactile and bouncy typing experience. 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
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Carrot share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing of their switches. Both switches benefit from the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that polycarbonate provides. This stiffer plastic material enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for customizable RGB lighting effects, making it an ideal choice for those looking to enhance the aesthetics of their keyboards with colorful lighting.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The Aqua features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound that complements the sharper tones produced by the top polycarbonate housing. On the other hand, the Carrot also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, showcasing a similar sound profile to the Aqua. This shared choice of material for the bottom housing highlights the importance of finding the right balance between top and bottom housing materials to achieve the desired typing experience.
In terms of typing experience, the qualities of the bottom and top housings play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. By combining different materials for the top and bottom housings, such as polycarbonate and nylon, both the Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Carrot offer a harmonious blend of sharper and fuller sound profiles that cater to a variety of typists' preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetic customization options.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, both have the same actuation force of 37 grams. However, the Aqua has an unknown bottom out force while the Carrot has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making the Carrot switch slightly heavier in terms of bottoming out. The Aqua switch offers a lighter typing experience with its unknown bottom out force, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Carrot switch provides a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force, catering to those who prefer a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the key travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Due to their equal travel distances, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key feel and typing experience with both switches. Ultimately, the travel distance of these switches is the same, making them equally suitable for different typing preferences and needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
The Aflion Carrot has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Carrot for $3.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky tones, creating a distinctive sound profile that sets it apart from other switches on the market. On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch produces a mid-pitched and firm sound profile that is characterized by its clacky nature. While both switches share the clacky sound descriptor, the Aqua switch introduces a chirpy element that adds a touch of uniqueness to its acoustic signature.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses with its super light 37g actuation force. This feathery feel reduces finger fatigue and enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot switch offers users a bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring that delivers a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Carrot switch features a variety of tactile descriptors such as snappy and stepped, giving users a diverse tactile typing experience.
Taking into consideration all the available information, it is clear that the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua switch stands out with its chirpy and clacky sound profile, combined with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, making it a great choice for those seeking a lighter touch and unique sound experience. In contrast, the Carrot switch provides users with a clacky and mid-pitched sound profile, along with a bouncy and tactile typing feel that includes elements like snappy and stepped sensations. Overall, while the sound and feel of these switches differ slightly, users can expect a high level of quality and performance from both options.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a super light and easy-to-press switch with a unique chirpy and clacky sound profile, the Dareu Aqua linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and tactile typing experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch may be more suitable for your needs. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing feel to make an informed decision on which switch aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what qualities you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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