Durock Black Lotus vs. Aflion Carrot

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Black Lotus and the Aflion Carrot. The Black Lotus is a linear switch known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, with reduced housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. With a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between substantial and not too hefty, it offers a pleasant typing experience for those who prefer a linear switch. Additionally, the unique light column provides in-switch lighting and is fully removable. On the other hand, the Carrot is a tactile switch that stands out for its fun and bouncy tactile experience. Its long, two-stage spring gives users a uniquely satisfying feel, while also offering a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. The Carrot switch is categorized as clacky, marbly, high-pitched, bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific preferences.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Black Lotus and the Aflion Carrot both use different materials for their top and bottom housings, which results in distinct characteristics for each switch. The Black Lotus utilizes a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which gives it a unique and premium feel. In contrast, the Carrot employs a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Although both materials contribute to a high-quality sound, the Black Lotus delivers a more luxurious tactile experience while the Carrot prioritizes sound clarity and resonance.

Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and superior sound absorption. With this in mind, typing on either the Black Lotus or the Carrot will result in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made with harder plastics. These nylon bottom housings impart a satisfyingly deep and immersive typing experience for both switches, further enhancing their overall performance.

It's worth noting that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in terms of sound and feel. When pressing down on the switch, the impact and bottom-out sound and feel are heavily influenced by the bottom housing. In this aspect, both the Black Lotus and the Carrot will provide a similar experience, thanks to their nylon bottom housings. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will primarily be affected by the top housing. This is where the modified PC & UPE Blend housing of the Black Lotus differs from the polycarbonate housing of the Carrot, with the former offering a unique premium feel and the latter emphasizing the sharpness and clarity of the sound profile.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, it is clear that there are significant differences. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the Carrot's actuation force of 37 grams, which is relatively light. This means that it takes less pressure to trigger a keystroke on the Carrot switch. In terms of bottom out force, the Black Lotus requires 63.5 grams of force, which is again heavier compared to the Carrot's 45 grams. So, not only does the Black Lotus require more force to initiate a keystroke, but it also requires more force to fully bottom out.

Considering weight is essential because it caters to different preferences. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may opt for the Carrot switch, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue, which is particularly useful for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Black Lotus, as its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide that satisfying tactile feedback. Thus, the choice depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, if you are looking for a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, both the Black Lotus and the Carrot switches will provide similar results.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Black Lotus switch is not described in the provided information. However, based on its smooth and precise feel, it is likely to produce a quiet and subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Carrot switch is described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched. This suggests that the Carrot switch produces a sharp, snappy, and resonant sound when pressed. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus switch is known for its silky, buttery, mild, and polished characteristics. This implies that the switch offers an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced resistance and noise. The Carrot switch, on the other hand, is described as bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle. This indicates that the Carrot switch provides a lively, responsive, and slightly tactile typing sensation with a gentle resistance. Additionally, the Carrot switch is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.

In conclusion, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Black Lotus switch provides a smooth and precise feel with a likely quiet sound profile, while the Carrot switch offers a bouncy and tactile typing experience with a snappy and resonant sound. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, if you prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience, you can achieve similar results with the Black Lotus switch. Similarly, if you prefer a lively and responsive typing sensation, you can achieve similar results with the Carrot switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preferences and the specific typing experience desired.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance and reduced wobble, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is an excellent choice. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a substantial actuation weight while still being manageable. Additionally, the unique light column provides in-switch lighting and is fully removable, adding a customizable touch to your keyboard. In terms of sound, the Black Lotus is not explicitly described, so it likely falls within a milder and polished category, providing a refined and sleek typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and bouncy typing experience, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is the way to go. With a light bottom out force of 45 grams, it requires little exertion from your fingers and reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The long, two-stage spring of the Carrot switch adds a unique bouncy tactile experience, giving you a lively feel and responsive feedback. In terms of sound, the Carrot switch is described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched, providing a sharp, snappy, and resonant sound when pressed.

Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch comes down to your personal preference for either a smooth and precise typing experience or a more tactile and bouncy one. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, so consider your desired typing feel and sound profile when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more