TTC Brother vs. Aflion Carrot
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Aflion Carrot switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, there are clear distinctions that cater to different preferences. The Brother is celebrated for its lightweight and breezy actuation of just 37g, providing a satisfyingly crunchy sound that clicky switch enthusiasts will surely appreciate. On the other hand, the Carrot offers a uniquely bouncy tactile experience with its two-stage spring and mid-pitched sound profile. While the Brother is 'Crunchy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped', the Carrot is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Stepped', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. Each switch has its own appeal based on the user's preference for actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Brother and the Aflion Carrot feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a clearer and more resonant sound due to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches when it comes to the top housing material.
On the other hand, the Brother and the Carrot differ in terms of their nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings results in a duller and rounder sound overall. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, this difference may impact the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
When looking at the overall design and construction of the Brother and the Carrot, it is evident that the combination of different housing materials plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a similar sound profile and aesthetic quality, the difference in their nylon bottom housings results in variations in the overall typing experience. Users may appreciate the deeper and fuller sound produced by the nylon bottom housing of the Brother, while the Carrot may offer a different typing experience with its own nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, it is clear that both switches have the same actuation force of 37 grams. However, the Brother switch has an unknown bottom out force, while the Carrot switch has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the heavier of the two. This means that while both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke, the Carrot switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. When considering weight, those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Brother switch, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who prefer a heavier push feel may choose the Carrot switch for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Aflion Carrot switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Brother switch. The TTC Brother switch falls in between the traditional 3.0 mm and 4.0 mm travel distances, making it a versatile option for those who enjoy a balance between shallow and deep key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot switch offers a slightly deeper travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced key press sensation. Ultimately, both switches provide a different typing experience based on their travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves, which is a hallmark of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch provides a clacky and firm sound profile, which can be more reminiscent of a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, making it a unique choice for users looking for a different auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Brother switch delivering a more traditional clicky sound and the Carrot switch offering a more lively and mid-pitched tone.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is described as easy-to-press and featuring a stepped design, providing a responsive and low-impact typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its bouncy and snappy feel, offering users a spring-like feedback sensation and a more lively typing experience. Both switches have their unique tactile characteristics, with the Brother switch focusing on ease of pressing and a two-stage feel, while the Carrot switch leans towards a bouncy and responsive feedback, catering to users who prefer a more dynamic typing experience.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Brother switch excels in providing a crunchy clicky sound and an easy-to-press, stepped tactile feel, appealing to users who enjoy a classic clicky switch experience. On the other hand, the Carrot switch stands out with its clacky and bouncy sound profile, paired with a snappy and lively tactile feel, offering a unique typing experience for those seeking a more dynamic and spring-like feedback. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide excellent options in the mechanical keyboard switch market, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a light and easy-to-press switch with a satisfyingly crunchy sound profile and a balanced tactile bump, the Brother switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Carrot switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. So, explore both options and decide based on what resonates with you the most.
Mentioned in this article
