Aflion Carrot vs. Bsun Chiikawa - 28g

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Aflion Carrot stands out as a tactile switch that offers a distinctive bouncy feel, thanks to its long, two-stage spring design. This results in a mid-pitched and firm sound profile that can be satisfying for those who enjoy a responsive feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g is a linear switch known for its very light actuation force and an engagingly bright sound profile. The Chiikawa's lightness makes it incredibly responsive, providing a smooth and crisp typing experience without the tactile bump. While the Carrot is ideal for those who appreciate tactile sensations and a snappy feedback during their typing sessions, the Chiikawa is perfect for users looking for speed and a quieter operation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Carrot Tactile

Bsun Chiikawa - 28g Linear

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Carrot and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g share some remarkable similarities in their housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice of material plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. Polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, largely due to its relative stiffness when compared to other plastics. Thus, users can expect a clear and resonant auditory experience from both switches, particularly when integrated with RGB lighting. This translucency also enhances the visual effects of RGB lights, making both switches ideal for aesthetically focused builds.

On the other hand, the bottom housing of both the Carrot and the Chiikawa - 28g is made from nylon, a classic choice among switch materials. Nylon’s softer plastic composition contributes to a much deeper and fuller sound profile than that offered by the stiffer polycarbonate in the top housing. This fundamental difference in the materials yields a distinct auditory experience: while the top housing enhances the sharpness of the sound when typing, the nylon bottom housing softens it, resulting in a more muted and rounded exhaust sound when the key bottoms out. Therefore, the combined characteristics of the top and bottom housings mean that both switches will provide a rich audio experience that balances crispness with warmth.

When comparing the whole setups of the Aflion Carrot and Bsun Chiikawa - 28g, it becomes clear that while the materials are the same, the interaction of their respective properties leads to a controlled amalgamation of sound profiles. Specifically, the audible qualities of each switch will be influenced by the combined effects of both the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate contributes to a clear sound when keys are released, while the nylon moderates and rounds out the impact sound at the bottom. Thus, users can achieve similar results in terms of sound dynamics from both switches, despite the nuanced differences they may notice when typing.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences in typing feel. The Carrot has a higher actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Chiikawa switch is lighter, with an actuation force of just 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams. This means that the Carrot, being the heavier option, offers a more substantial typing experience, which some users may prefer for a tactile feel. Conversely, the Chiikawa switch is lighter, allowing for easier and potentially longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches differ in both actuation and bottom out forces, suggesting that users will feel a notable distinction in their experience depending on their choice.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch, it is evident that the Carrot offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Chiikawa - 28g features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This 0.4 mm difference signifies that if you choose the Carrot, you may enjoy a more pronounced depth during key presses, which can be preferable for users who appreciate a hearty tactile experience. Conversely, the Chiikawa's shorter travel distance could appeal to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, making it feel more responsive during use. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding depth and responsiveness during typing or gaming experiences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch produces a mid-pitched and firm audio profile, characterized by a clacky and high-pitched tone. This contrast gives it a bright and percussive sound that enhances the typing experience for those who appreciate lively acoustics. The Chiikawa - 28g linear switch, while less explicitly documented, is known for its bright sound profile. The switch produces a crisp, high-pitched sound that contributes to a responsive typing feel. However, without specific descriptors for the Chiikawa, it's challenging to directly compare them beyond acknowledging that both switches favor higher-pitched sounds, appealing to users who prefer a crisp auditory experience.

When it comes to feel, the Aflion Carrot is notable for its bouncy, snappy, and stepped characteristics. The dual-stage spring design allows for a lively and responsive typing experience, giving users a noticeable tactile feedback that enhances engagement with each keystroke. The Carrot's tactile feel is further supported by its unique spring design, contributing to the overall liveliness of the switch. In contrast, the feel of the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch remains unknown, leaving an incomplete picture. However, its very light actuation force suggests it may be easier to press, potentially providing a very smooth and gentle typing experience, which can be attractive for users who prefer less resistance.

In conclusion, both the Aflion Carrot and Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switches cater to those who appreciate an engaging auditory experience, leaning toward brighter, higher-pitched sound profiles. The Carrot excels in tactile feedback, delivering a bouncy and snappy feel enhanced by its unique spring design, while the Chiikawa's precise tactile characteristics are less clear but promise a light and possibly smooth engagement. For newcomers, these qualities suggest that if you seek a bouncy and tactile experience, the Carrot is your best bet; if you prefer something lighter, the Chiikawa will likely offer satisfaction, albeit with less tactile feedback.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch should depend largely on your typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a tactile feedback experience with a bouncy and snappy feel, the Carrot switch would be the better option for you. Its lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams combined with its mid-pitched, clacky sound profile makes it ideal for those who appreciate an engaging and lively typing sensation, especially in gaming or typographic endeavors that benefit from tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a more straightforward, smooth keystroke with minimal resistance, the Chiikawa - 28g’s exceptionally light 34-gram actuation force might be just what you need. This switch's bright and crisp sound profile makes it perfect for fast-paced tasks or environments where quiet operation is a plus. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits, so consider what aspects of your typing experience you value most, and choose accordingly.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Chiikawa - 28g Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more