Kailh Box White V2 vs. Aflion Carrot
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Aflion Carrot switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White V2 and the Aflion Carrot represent two distinct auditory and tactile experiences, appealing to different types of users. The Box White V2 is a clicky switch, celebrated for its crisp tactile feedback and pronounced audible click, which not only enhances typing accuracy but also provides a satisfying auditory signal with each keystroke. This makes it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy the classic sound and feel of traditional mechanical switches. In contrast, the Aflion Carrot is a tactile switch that stands out for its fun and bouncy tactile feedback, characterized by a long, two-stage spring that delivers a mid-pitched, firm sound. This combination of characteristics appeals to users who prefer a more subtle and nuanced tactile response without the louder click of conventional clicky switches. While both switches offer unique advantages—whether for an immersive typing experience or for a more playful, tactile interaction—there’s much more to explore. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
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
Both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Aflion Carrot switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in similar acoustical qualities. Polycarbonate is well known for its rigidity and capacity to produce a higher-pitched, crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic facilitates clearer sound resonance, which is particularly notable when the switch is used in conjunction with RGB lighting due to the material's translucency. The visual aesthetic of both switches benefits from this, as the clear polycarbonate housing allows light to pass through, enhancing the overall illumination effect and visual appeal.
In contrast to their top housings, both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Aflion Carrot feature nylon in their bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer material, contributes a deeper, fuller sound profile during typing. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than the rigid polycarbonate, leading to a softer bottom-out feel. Such dynamic interaction between the contrasting materials means that when you press on either switch, you’ll experience the distinctive qualities imparted by the nylon bottom housing, while the crispness of the polycarbonate top impacts the sound and feel as you release the key.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both switches allows for a balanced auditory experience. The high-pitched tone and brightness of the polycarbonate top meld with the deeper, more resonant sound produced by the nylon bottom, creating a unique typing experience across both models. Whether using the Kailh Box White V2 or the Aflion Carrot, you can expect to enjoy a well-rounded sound profile that takes advantage of the strengths of each material, ensuring that both switches deliver similar performance characteristics during use.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch to the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, we observe notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Kailh Box White V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a relatively light option. In contrast, the Aflion Carrot features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This indicates that the Kailh Box White V2 requires a stronger push to activate the keystroke while also bottoming out at a higher force. Consequently, users who prefer a lighter key feel for extended typing or gaming sessions may gravitate more towards the Aflion Carrot due to its lower overall forces. Meanwhile, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a firmer keypress might find the Kailh Box White V2 to be more appealing despite being a heavier option. Overall, while both switches are considered light, the Carrot offers a lighter touch compared to the Kailh Box White V2's stronger resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, the Kailh Box White V2 measures at 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Carrot has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Carrot switch offers a longer travel distance, aligning more closely with traditional preferences for a deeper keystroke feel. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance caters to users seeking quicker response times, which can be particularly appealing for gaming enthusiasts. Therefore, users looking for a more responsive typing experience may prefer the Kailh Box White V2, whereas those who appreciate a more pronounced keypress might gravitate towards the Aflion Carrot.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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 considering sound, the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch is characterized by its crisp, pronounced click, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. This switch produces a sharp and crisp sound that enhances the typing experience, while its clicky nature can be quite satisfying. In contrast, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch emits a mid-pitched sound profile described as clacky, which refers to a bright and percussive auditory experience that is engaging yet not overwhelming. While their sound profiles differ, both switches can produce enjoyable acoustic sensations that will resonate depending on the keyboard's construction and the keycaps chosen, allowing users to curate their overall typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White V2 offers a distinct tactile feedback that delivers a satisfying punch during each keystroke. This tactile sensation is paired with a firm actuation that many typists and gamers appreciate. On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch provides a uniquely bouncy and snappy experience due to its long, two-stage spring design, resulting in a lively rebound that makes typing feel exhilarating. The Carrot also boasts characteristics of a stepped tactile feel, making it slightly more nuanced as it includes distinct stages in the keystroke, contrasting with the direct tactile nature of the Box White V2.
In summary, both the Kailh Box White V2 and Aflion Carrot switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The Box White V2 emphasizes a pronounced click sound and a satisfying keystroke, while the Carrot provides a bouncy and lively feedback with a brighter sound profile. These differences in sound and feel cater to various preferences, and ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual typing styles and sound preferences. While their qualities are distinct, both switches can deliver engaging and enjoyable results, ensuring a fulfilling mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch ultimately hinges on what you prioritize in your typing experience. If you enjoy a pronounced clicky feedback and a crisp, high-pitched sound, making the Box White V2 an excellent option for those who revel in tactile responses, especially in a noisy environment or where typing audible feedback is a preference. This switch is particularly suited for users who appreciate a more traditional typing feel and want to engage their senses while typing, making it ideal for dedicated typists or gamers who love that auditory and tactile confirmation with each keypress. On the other hand, if you are looking for an experience that balances responsiveness with a softer, bouncier feel, the Aflion Carrot may be more aligned with your needs. Its unique design offers a lively tactile experience and a mid-pitched sound profile, catering well to those who prefer a more subtle auditory feedback that’s easy on the ears, making it ideal for office environments or shared spaces where noise levels are a concern. Consider your typing style, the environment you’ll be using the keyboard in, and your sound preferences to determine which switch will provide you with the most satisfying experience.
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