Aflion Carrot vs. Akko V3 Cream Black Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch. The Carrot switch is known for its bouncy tactile experience due to its long, two-stage spring, offering a unique typing sensation. On the other hand, the Cream Black Pro V3 switches from Akko stand out for their budget-friendly yet high-quality build, providing a smooth and clacky sound right out of the box. While the Carrot switch is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', and 'Feathery', the Cream Black Pro V3 switch is noted for being 'Creamy', 'Polished', and 'High-pitched'. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing habits. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. This similarity in top housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent auditory experience when typing on either switch.
However, a key point of distinction between the two switches lies in their bottom housing material. The Carrot opts for a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material showcases how each switch aims to provide a unique typing experience, with the Carrot offering a more mellow and muted sound compared to the sharper tones of the V3 Cream Black Pro.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing. While both the Aflion Carrot and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing for a clear and resonant sound profile, their differentiation in bottom housing material results in varying sound profiles and tactile feedback. Whether one prefers the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the sharper tones of polycarbonate, both switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a smooth and easy typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Carrot switch for longer typing periods or gaming sessions, while users seeking a stronger push feel may opt for the V3 Cream Black Pro switch for a more robust typing experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on individual preferences, with the Carrot switch being lighter and the V3 Cream Black Pro switch being heavier, providing users with versatile options to suit their typing needs.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch. The Carrot's travel distance is more traditional and provides a deeper press, which may be preferred by some users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a shorter travel distance, making it appealing to those seeking faster response times and a more responsive feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, and users can choose based on their personal preference for shorter or longer key travel. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on the individual's typing or gaming style and preference for depth in key presses.
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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 Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a unique and bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. The sound can be described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch stands out with its poppy and clacky sound, perfectly complemented by smoothness. Both switches have a high-pitched sound profile, but the Carrot switch may offer a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Cream Black Pro.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its bouncy and snappy feedback, providing a lively feel with a two-stage spring for a unique typing experience. The switch is also described as stepped, feathery, and subtle, offering a light typing feel that reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is creamy and bouncy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with super responsive keys. The switch is also described as snappy and polished, ensuring a sleek and refined typing feel.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a bouncy and lively tactile feedback accompanied by a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with a poppy and clacky sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is a superb option. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on your personal typing preferences and sound preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a bouncy and tactile feel with a mid-pitched sound, the Carrot switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a poppy and clacky sound, the V3 Cream Black Pro switch would be more suitable. Keep in mind that the Carrot has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro's 65 grams, so factor in your preferred actuation force as well. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
