Bsun Pine vs. Aflion Carrot
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Aflion Carrot switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the BSUN Pine and the Aflion Carrot, both tactile switches offering unique typing experiences. The BSUN Pine switches are best known for their sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing clear-cut feedback and fast action for those who prefer a direct and no-nonsense tactility. On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot switch stands out for its bouncy and playful tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Additionally, the Carrot switch offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. While both switches have their unique characteristics and are categorized differently, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between them. 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Pine and the Aflion Carrot feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for better RGB lighting effects due to its translucency. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate is a common choice for clear housings, making it easy to identify switches that utilize this material. Overall, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches provides a similar sound and visual experience.
In contrast, the Bsun Pine and the Aflion Carrot have differing nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder materials. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While both switches feature nylon in their bottom housings, the impact of this material is more noticeable on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The nylon bottom housing adds a unique tactile experience to the typing process, distinguishing it from switches with different bottom materials.
Overall, the Bsun Pine and the Aflion Carrot showcase how the choice of housing materials can greatly influence the sound and feel of a switch. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a clear and resonant sound profile, they differ in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, with the Bsun Pine offering a deeper and fuller sound experience. The combination of these materials in each switch creates a unique typing experience, emphasizing the importance of housing materials in keyboard design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, it is evident that the Carrot is lighter while the Pine is heavier. The Pine requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, classifying it as a lighter option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Carrot, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Pine. Both switches provide different typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal typing style and preference for typing force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Carrot switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Pine switch. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prefer faster response times might lean towards the Pine switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Carrot switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer their own advantages, so ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 BSUN Pine switch offers a sharp and direct acoustics profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a clean and crisp sound with each keypress. On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot switch provides a unique clacky and mid-pitched sound, giving off a snappy and lively auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the directness of the Pine switch or the bouncy sound of the Carrot switch, taking into consideration factors such as keyboard build and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Pine switch is characterized by its sharp and invigorating tactile feedback, offering users a distinct and responsive typing experience. With its accentuated tactility and snappy response, the Pine switch is favored by those who enjoy a pronounced tactile bump. In contrast, the Aflion Carrot switch provides a bouncy and slightly stepped sensation, giving users a playful and light typing feel. The Carrot switch's unique two-stage spring design offers a mix of rebound and responsiveness, making it a fun choice for those looking for a more lively typing experience.
Overall, both the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Pine switch provides a sharp and direct tactile feedback with fast action, the Carrot switch offers a bouncy and playful typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the distinct tactility of the Pine switch or the lively bounce of the Carrot switch. Ultimately, both switches promise an engaging and responsive typing experience, ensuring that users will enjoy their time spent typing on either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, sharp tactile bump, and direct tactility, then the Pine switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, bouncy tactile experience, and a mid-pitched sound profile, then the Carrot switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique typing experiences with their own distinct characteristics, so it's important to consider what qualities matter most to you when making your decision. Ultimately, choosing between the Pine and Carrot switches will depend on what type of typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
