Aflion Blush vs. Aflion Carrot
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Aflion Carrot switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Aflion Blush and Aflion Carrot, two mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Blush switch, a linear switch, is best known for its impressively smooth and snappy type feel. With its longer, two-stage spring and long pole, this switch offers a satisfyingly creamy and silky typing experience, accompanied by a low-pitched and poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Carrot switch, a tactile switch, offers a uniquely bouncy tactile experience. Its long, two-stage spring provides a fun and firm typing sensation, accompanied by a mid-pitched and clacky sound profile. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
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
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blush and the Aflion Carrot both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent properties of polycarbonate make it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics when using either the Blush or the Carrot.
While the top housing material remains the same for both switches, the difference lies in their bottom housings. The Blush features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. On the other hand, the Carrot also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with its deeper and fuller sound profile.
In terms of functionality, when pressing down on either switch, the impact of the bottom housing material will be felt. The bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Conversely, the top housing material will primarily affect the sound produced when letting go of a key. Therefore, while the housing materials may differ for the top and bottom of the switches, the overall typing experience and sound qualities are likely to remain consistent between the Aflion Blush and the Aflion Carrot.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, it is evident that there are notable differences. The Blush switch has an actuation force that is currently unknown in terms of measurement, while the Carrot switch has an actuation force of 37 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Blush switch measures at 58 grams, which can be considered medium, whereas the Carrot switch has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams.
Considering the weight aspect of these switches, lighter switches like the Carrot can be preferred by individuals who enjoy typing for longer durations, making them suitable for work-related tasks or extended gaming sessions. These individuals appreciate the lighter actuation force, allowing them to effortlessly trigger keystrokes without experiencing excessive fatigue.
On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier actuation forces. While the actuation force of the Blush switch is unspecified, it can still offer a more robust push feel compared to the Carrot switch due to its higher bottom out force of 58 grams. This heavier bottom out force provides a tactile feedback that some individuals find satisfying and more noticeable during typing.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Aflion Blush linear switch is relatively heavier with an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 58 grams. Depending on personal preferences, these variations in actuation and bottom out forces offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different user needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Blush has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm distance. On the other hand, the Carrot has a travel distance of 4 mm, which falls within the more traditional range. If faster response times are a priority for you, then the Blush with its shorter travel distance is the ideal choice. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances for improved response times during intense gaming sessions. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press and a deeper feeling, the Carrot with its longer travel distance may be the better option. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the kind of typing or gaming experience you are seeking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Blush has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blush for $4.07.
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 Aflion Blush linear switch is known for its low-pitched profile, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a combination of sound profiles. It is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, as well as marbly, which means it is resonant, high-pitched, and clean. Additionally, the Carrot switch falls under the category of high-pitched switches which produce a sharp and crisp sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps. Ultimately, the Blush and Carrot switches provide different sound experiences, with the Blush being low-pitched and the Carrot offering a mix of clacky, marbly, and high-pitched sounds.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Blush linear switch is described as creamy, silky, and buttery. These descriptors indicate that the Blush switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a seamless and effortless sensation. On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a bouncy and snappy tactile feedback. The Carrot switch has a lively feel and gives a rebound when pressed due to its bouncy nature. Moreover, the Carrot switch is described as stepped, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, the Carrot switch provides a feathery feel, which means it is exceptionally light to press and reduces finger fatigue. The Blush and Carrot switches offer distinct tactile experiences, with the Blush being creamy, silky, and buttery, while the Carrot is bouncy, snappy, stepped, and feathery.
Taking all the available information into account, the Aflion Blush linear switch stands out for its impressively smooth, full, and snappy type feel, as well as its poppy sound signature. It offers a low-pitched sound profile and a creamy, silky, and buttery feel. In contrast, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch provides a uniquely bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. It offers a combination of clacky, marbly, and high-pitched sounds, along with a bouncy, snappy, stepped, and feathery feel. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities, and choosing between them depends on personal preference for sound and feel. If you are looking for a smooth linear experience with a low-pitched sound and creamy feel, the Blush switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy tactile experience with a mix of clacky, marbly, and high-pitched sounds, along with a feathery and stepped feel, the Carrot switch would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force and are looking for a smooth and snappy linear switch, the Aflion Blush would be an excellent choice for you. With its longer two-stage spring, it offers a truly satisfying typing experience, accompanied by a poppy sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and crave a bouncy tactile experience, the Aflion Carrot is the switch for you. Its unique two-stage spring provides a fun and lively feedback sensation, and the switch offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. Ultimately, whether you prioritize sound or feel, both switches have their distinctive qualities and can enhance your typing experience in their own ways.
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