HMX Canglan V2 vs. Aflion Carrot

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile options can significantly influence your typing experience, and two noteworthy contenders are the HMX Canglan V2 and the Aflion Carrot. The Canglan V2, a linear switch, is celebrated for its silky, bouncy feel and thocky sound profile, providing a smooth and satisfying keystroke that many enthusiasts crave. Its meticulously crafted materials and improved molding techniques make it an excellent choice for users seeking a quieter typing experience with a touch of sophistication. In contrast, the Aflion Carrot stands out as a playful tactile switch, designed with a unique two-stage spring that offers a bouncy and snappy tactile feedback, along with a mid-pitched sound. This makes it ideal for typists who enjoy a pronounced response with each keystroke, adding an engaging element to their typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference: whether you prefer the refined smoothness of the Canglan V2 or the tactile excitement of the Carrot. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials used in the HMX Canglan V2 and the Aflion Carrot, a distinctive contrast can be observed in their top housings. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a sound that is duller yet rounder. Conversely, the Carrot employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This distinct difference in material not only affects the audible feedback when typing but also influences the overall experience with the keyboard. Undoubtedly, users looking for a softer auditory experience may lean towards the Canglan V2, while those who prefer crisp and clear sounds might be more inclined to choose the Aflion Carrot.

In terms of bottom housing, both the Canglan V2 and the Carrot utilize nylon, providing consistency in sound characteristics for this portion of the switch. Just like the Canglan V2, the Carrot's nylon bottom housing is recognized for delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile, contributing to a similar auditory experience when comparing these switches. The nylon’s inherent qualities soften the sound produced at the bottom-out, which can create a uniform feeling of comfort and subtlety regardless of the different top housings used. This shared material facilitates an interesting juxtaposition where the switches can produce noticeably different sounds and feels based on the contrasting top housing materials while maintaining a consistent tonal quality underneath.

Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials result in a composite effect on the overall typing experience of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Aflion Carrot. While the nylon top of the Canglan V2 allows for a muted resonance, the polycarbonate top of the Carrot lends a bright clarity. However, the nylon bottom housing standardizes the performance in terms of deeper sound production, providing a crucial anchor in their acoustic profiles. Hence, despite their differences, the keyboards can still deliver a harmonious typing experience, albeit colored by the unique characteristics of their top housings. Depending on user preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches seem to offer valuable attributes that cater to specific typing styles.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, to the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, we see some notable differences. While both switches are lightweight, the Carrot is the lighter option, requiring less effort to actuate at 37 grams compared to the Canglan V2's 42 grams. In terms of bottom out forces, the Carrot again prevails with 45 grams, while the Canglan V2 bottoms out at 48 grams. These variations suggest that typists or gamers who favor lighter switches for extended use may lean towards the Aflion Carrot for a more effortless typing experience. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feel may find the Canglan V2's heavier forces more satisfying. Despite their differences, both switches offer a light touch, making them suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, albeit with varying degrees of required force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, we find that the Canglan V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Carrot features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Canglan V2 the shorter option, catering to those who prefer a more responsive feel, which is often favored by gamers seeking quicker key presses. In contrast, the Carrot's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional and hearty key press, which some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. Thus, for those who prioritize quick responses, the Canglan V2 is the recommended choice, while those who appreciate a deeper travel distance might lean towards the Aflion Carrot.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Canglan V2 switch produces a rich, low-pitched thock that is deep and satisfying, reminiscent of a soft "knock" with each keystroke. This particular sound signature is geared towards users who appreciate a bass-heavy auditory experience that can enhance the tactile satisfaction of typing. In contrast, the Aflion Carrot switch delivers a mid-pitched, clacky sound profile that is sharp and crisp, providing a bright auditory feedback that feels more percussive. While the Canglan V2’s sound might cater to those who prefer a mellow tone, the Carrot targets users looking for a snappy, attention-catching auditory response. Ultimately, the choice of sound will also be influenced by the specific keyboard and keycap combinations used.

In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 stands out with its silky and feathery characteristics, offering an exceptionally smooth and lightweight typing experience. Users can enjoy a bit of bounce along with the comfortable actuation force, making it ideal for long typing sessions without significant finger fatigue. The Aflion Carrot switch, meanwhile, also features a bouncy feel but combines it with a snappy and stepped response, making each key actuation feel lively and responsive. While it also provides a feather-like touch, the Carrot's design allows for a more pronounced tactile feedback, making the typing experience dynamic yet comfortable. Both switches cater to users who appreciate light and bouncy feel attributes, albeit with different implementations of tactile feedback.

In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch present unique auditory and tactile experiences suited to different typist preferences. The Canglan V2 prides itself on its deep, thocky sound and smooth, light feel, appealing to those who value a mellow auditory experience. Alternatively, the Carrot’s mid-pitched, clacky sound coupled with its snappy tactile feedback creates an engaging typing environment. Ultimately, users who prioritize smoothness and low pitch might lean towards the Canglan V2, while those who enjoy responsive tactile sensations and bright sounds will find the Carrot to be more to their liking.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a smooth and silky typing experience with a satisfying low-pitched thocky sound, the Canglan V2 is an ideal choice, particularly for activities like gaming or extended typing sessions where a light actuation force can help reduce finger fatigue. Its deep auditory feedback and feathery feel create an immersive typing atmosphere, making it a favorite among linear switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a tactile and more engaging experience, the Carrot switch may better suit your needs. Its bouncy and snappy feedback, combined with a mid-pitched sound profile and a unique two-stage spring, makes it an excellent option for those who appreciate a tactile bump and a lively keystroke. Furthermore, its subtle feel makes it suitable for use in shared spaces without overwhelming noise. By evaluating your typing style and the environment in which you work or game, you’ll be able to select the switch that enhances your overall experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more