Aflion Carrot vs. Gateron CM
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron CM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron CM. The Carrot switch is well-known for its fun and bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. It offers a firm and mid-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the CM switch breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, providing a richer and deeper sound signature. These switches are complemented by an impeccable factory lube job, ensuring an effortlessly smooth typing journey. They offer a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the CM switch also provides a bouncy typing experience thanks to its lengthened, dual-staged spring. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Gateron CM have different housing materials for both their top and bottom housings. The Carrot utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the CM features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. While the Carrot's top housing is translucent and particularly useful for RGB lighting, the CM's nylon top housing lacks this feature.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Carrot and the CM employ nylon. This choice of material allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon contributes to the absorption of sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, both the Carrot and the CM offer similar qualities.
It is important to note that the differences in housing materials between the Carrot and the CM will impact the sound when pressing and releasing a key. The Carrot's polycarbonate top housing will have a greater influence on the sound when letting go of a key, creating a sharper and crisper sound. On the other hand, the CM's nylon top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when pressing down on a key, producing a deeper and fuller tone. This distinction in sound characteristics adds to the overall experience and feel of using these switches.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Carrot switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the CM switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that the Carrot switch will require less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the CM switch. Additionally, the Carrot switch provides a lighter typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch and value the ability to type for long periods, the Carrot switch may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, the CM switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Some users may prefer this stronger push feel for a more satisfying typing experience. It is worth noting that if a user prefers a similar result in terms of force requirements, both the Carrot and CM switches can provide comparable results as they both exhibit light to medium-heavy weights respectively.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch have different travel distances. The Carrot has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of comparison, the Carrot has a slightly longer travel distance than the CM. The Carrot's 4.0 mm travel distance is more in line with the traditional switch distance, while the CM's 3.6 mm is slightly shallower. However, both switches offer a decent amount of travel distance, providing a satisfying tactile feedback when pressed. If you are a gamer looking for faster response times, the CM with its shorter travel distance may be the preferable option. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced key press and a deeper feel, the Carrot with its longer travel distance could be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience you desire.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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
The Aflion Carrot switch is known for its uniquely bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. This switch offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched. It produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. In terms of feel, the Carrot switch is bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. It has a lively feel, giving rebound when pressed. It is also snappy and stepped, with a mild tactile feel that includes some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, the Carrot switch is described as feathery and subtle, with a gentle resistance that reduces finger fatigue and allows for comfortable extended typing sessions.
On the other hand, the Gateron CM switch breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, offering a unique sound signature. It delivers a richer, deeper sound profile, described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. These switches provide a deeper and more satisfying sound during key presses, reminiscent of a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." The CM switch also promises an effortlessly smooth typing experience due to its impeccable factory lube job. It is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot and Gateron CM switches offer contrasting subjective qualities. The Carrot switch is characterized by its bouncy and snappy feel, along with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. The CM switch, on the other hand, provides a smooth and polished typing experience with a deeper and richer sound signature. These switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a bouncy and tactile experience with a mid-pitched sound, the Carrot switch would be a great option. If you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a deeper sound, the Gateron CM switch would be the better choice. Both switches excel in their own unique qualities, ensuring an enjoyable typing journey for different users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a light bottom out force and a fun bouncy tactile experience, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch would be the perfect choice for you. With its long, two-stage spring, it offers a uniquely bouncy typing experience that adds an element of playfulness to your keystrokes. Additionally, the Carrot switch has a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth typing journey, the Gateron CM linear switch is the way to go. It breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, delivering a deeper and richer sound signature described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. Furthermore, the CM switch comes with an impeccable factory lube job, ensuring an effortlessly smooth typing experience that evokes a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for bottom out force, tactile experience, sound profile, and typing feel. Whether you choose the Aflion Carrot tactile switch for its bouncy and fun nature, or the Gateron CM linear switch for its smooth and refined typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.