SP-Star Ayara vs. Aflion Carrot
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Aflion Carrot switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Ayara and the Aflion Carrot. The Ayara switch is a linear switch, known for its medium heftiness and hearty typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, it is an ideal choice for those looking for a satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, the Carrot switch is a tactile switch that offers a uniquely bouncy tactile experience. Its long, two-stage spring provides a fun and responsive feel when typing. Additionally, the Carrot switch offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. While both switches have their own distinct characteristics, it's important to dive deeper beyond the generalities to determine which switch best suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Aflion Carrot exhibit distinct differences. Starting with the top housing, the Ayara utilizes a nylon material which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Carrot employs polycarbonate in its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the Carrot's translucent polycarbonate top housing is particularly beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lights to shine through.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Ayara and the Carrot utilize nylon. Consequently, they share the same qualities in terms of the sound profile. As nylon is a softer plastic material, it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, both switches produce a deeper and fuller sound, contributing to a more immersive typing experience.
It is important to note that if a switch has different housing materials for the top and bottom, their respective qualities will be distinct. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing will primarily impact the bottom-out sound and feel. In this case, the nylon bottom housing of both the Ayara and the Carrot will contribute to the deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more significant effect on the sound when releasing a key. Here, the nylon top housing of the Ayara and the polycarbonate top housing of the Carrot will create contrasting sound profiles, with the Ayara offering a duller and rounder sound, while the Carrot delivers a sharper and crisper sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ayara's actuation force is currently unknown, while the Carrot requires a gentle 37 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Ayara is heavier with a force of 62 grams, while the Carrot is comparatively lighter with a force of 45 grams.
Considering weight, lighter switches like the Carrot are favored by individuals who value longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. The lighter actuation force allows for a smoother and potentially more efficient typing experience. On the other hand, some users prefer a more substantial push feel, which signifies a stronger actuation force. These individuals appreciate the tactile feedback and the sense of solidity it provides.
While the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the Ayara and Carrot switches, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience would likely find the Carrot more suitable. Conversely, those desiring a heavier and more pronounced keystroke would find the Ayara more fitting.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, it becomes evident that both switches have a similar travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either the Ayara or the Carrot switch, users will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Thus, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer similar results and do not differ from one another.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Ayara has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ayara for $5.40.
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
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch is best known for providing a hearty typing experience, with a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile. In terms of sound, the Ayara is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes. However, it is also mentioned that the Ayara has a high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This makes it a good choice for those who prefer a snappy and bright sound profile.
On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for offering a uniquely bouncy tactile experience. It features a long, two-stage spring that gives users a lively feel and rebound when pressed. In terms of sound, the Carrot switch is described as clacky and marbly, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be compared to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. Additionally, like the Ayara, the Carrot switch also has a high-pitched sound profile.
In conclusion, the Ayara linear switch and the Carrot tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ayara provides a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. It has a neutral sound profile but also has a high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Carrot switch offers a uniquely bouncy tactile experience with a lively feel and a clacky and marbly sound profile. Both switches have a high-pitched sound. It is important to note that these subjective qualities are also affected by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. Therefore, by selecting the Ayara or the Carrot switch, one can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, but with some variations based on personal preferences and other external factors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a medium heftness and a soft bottom-out feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is the ideal choice for you. It offers a perfectly clacky sound profile and is suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings, whether at home or work. On the other hand, if you're seeking a fun and uniquely bouncy tactile experience, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is the way to go. With its light bottom-out force and a long, two-stage spring, it provides a bouncy and snappy feel while typing. Additionally, it offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own distinct qualities and preferences, allowing you to choose based on your specific typing preferences and requirements.
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