Kailh Box Royal vs. Aflion Carrot
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Aflion Carrot switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a multitude of options available, each with its own unique characteristics. Two popular choices in the tactile switch category are the Kailh Box Royal and the Aflion Carrot. The Box Royal is best known for its incredibly pronounced tactility - it offers a sharp, binary tactility that is perfect for those who prefer a nearly aggressive tactile experience. Additionally, the Box Royal has a higher-pitched sound profile, adding an extra level of auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Carrot switch offers a different kind of tactile experience. Its long, two-stage spring provides users with a uniquely bouncy tactile sensation, making typing a more engaging and enjoyable experience. In terms of sound profile, the Carrot switch offers a mid-pitched and firm sound, which adds a satisfying clackiness to each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your typing preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and the Aflion Carrot differ in their housing materials, with the Box Royal featuring a nylon top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Carrot has a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housing of the Box Royal results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Carrot's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, which is especially advantageous if RGB lighting is used due to its translucency. However, both switches share the common trait of nylon bottom housing, which also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of these switches, it is important to note that the characteristics of each housing material will affect different aspects of the switch's performance. The bottom housing, which is made of nylon in both switches, primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. Thus, the switch's overall sound profile and tactile feedback during key presses will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing material. Conversely, the top housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, depending on the specific housing material used for the top and bottom, the typing experience and sound profile of the switches may vary.
In summary, the Kailh Box Royal and the Aflion Carrot exhibit differences in their housing materials, with the Box Royal featuring nylon housings throughout and the Carrot incorporating a polycarbonate top housing. This distinction leads to variations in the sound profiles generated by the switches. While the Box Royal produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon housing, the Carrot offers a sharper and crisper sound attributed to its polycarbonate top housing. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a similar deeper and fuller sound experience during key presses. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on sound and feel can help individuals select a switch that aligns with their preferred typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, we can see some key differences. The Kailh Box Royal has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Carrot's 37-gram actuation force. This means that a lighter touch is required to trigger keystrokes on the Carrot switch compared to the Box Royal.
Moving on to the bottom out force, we find that the Box Royal has a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Carrot has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. This signifies that typing on the Box Royal will require more force to fully press down the keys compared to the Carrot switch.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged use may opt for the Carrot switch. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces provide a smoother and more effortless keystroke. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Box Royal switch. Its heavier actuation and bottom out forces require a stronger push, resulting in a more pronounced tactile feedback.
In summary, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Aflion Carrot tactile switch. However, both switches offer their own unique typing experiences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired feel while typing.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch have different travel distances. The Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Carrot has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, both switches fall within the range of what is considered a normal travel distance. However, the Carrot has a slightly longer travel distance than the Box Royal. Generally, shorter travel distances are favored by gamers who seek faster response times. If you prioritize quick responsiveness, the Box Royal would be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper feeling when pressing down on a key, the Carrot's longer travel distance may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches is subjective and depends on your personal preferences for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is known for its sharp and binary tactility, providing a nearly aggressive tactile experience. It produces a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, which can be described as sharp and crisp. On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a uniquely bouncy tactile experience due to its long, two-stage spring. It has a mid-pitched and firm sound profile that can be characterized as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched. The Carrot switch also offers additional qualities such as being snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle in terms of feel.
In terms of sound, the Box Royal has a higher-pitched profile compared to the Carrot switch, which has a mid-pitched and firm sound. The Box Royal produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, while the Carrot switch can be described as clacky, bright, and percussive. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Box Royal switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback. It has a strong and crisp tactile bump that is prominent with each keypress. On the other hand, the Carrot switch offers a bouncy and lively feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. It is also described as snappy, giving a super responsive typing experience. Additionally, the Carrot switch has qualities of being stepped, feathery, and subtle, which offer different levels of resistance, lightness, and comfort during typing.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal and Aflion Carrot tactile switches have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Royal provides a sharp and aggressive tactility with a higher-pitched sound profile, while the Carrot switch offers a bouncy and uniquely tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. Both switches have their own merits and are suitable for different preferences. It is recommended to try out samples of each switch to determine which one aligns better with your desired tactile and auditory experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're someone who values a highly tactile typing experience and enjoys a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches offer a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. On the other hand, if you're looking for a fun and bouncy tactile switch with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot switch would be a great fit. These switches provide a unique and lively feel with their long, two-stage spring. Additionally, the Carrot switch offers a variety of other tactile sensations to choose from, such as a snappy or feathery feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for tactility and sound. Consider the attributes described for each switch and choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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