Aflion Carrot vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Cream Yellow. Each switch offers a unique typing experience and sound profile, giving users a variety of options to choose from. The Carrot switch is best known for its bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Additionally, it produces a mid-pitched and firm sound. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch is designed to deliver a distinctively clacky sound, with its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem providing resonant audio feedback. Its lengthened spring also contributes to a uniquely bouncy typing feel. While these general characteristics can help guide your decision, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the KTT Cream Yellow have similar housing materials, with both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting. Therefore, users of both the Carrot and the Cream Yellow can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic appeal when using these switches.
Moving onto the bottom housings, both the Carrot and the Cream Yellow employ nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches create a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out keys. Therefore, users can anticipate a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either the Carrot or the Cream Yellow.
Considering the impact of the different housing materials on the overall switch experience, it is essential to note that the qualities brought by the polycarbonate top housing and the nylon bottom housing are bifurcated. When pressing down on these switches, users will feel the influence of the bottom housing, which affects the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. While the specific qualities of the top and bottom housing materials may differ between the Carrot and the Cream Yellow, users can expect these differences to manifest in a similar manner when using these switches.
Weight
When it comes to the actuation force and bottom out force, there are some notable differences between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch. The Carrot offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This lightness can be preferable for individuals who need to type for extended periods, such as those using a keyboard at work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch provides a slightly heavier feel, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. This medium-level resistance may appeal to users who desire a more substantial and deliberate keystroke. Despite the contrasting forces, it's worth mentioning that both switches offer unique advantages depending on the user's preference. Those seeking a lighter typing experience will find the Carrot switch suitable, whereas individuals who prefer a slightly heavier push for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Cream Yellow switch.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of distance, the Carrot offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow. The Carrot's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm is preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. This shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses and may enhance gaming performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference. If you prioritize responsiveness and speed, the Cream Yellow would be a suitable option, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Carrot to be a better fit.
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 KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 is best known for its mid-pitched and firm sound profile. This means that when pressed, the Carrot switch produces a sound that is not overly high-pitched or sharp, but rather has a solid and crisp quality to it. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is designed to deliver a distinctively clacky sound. This means that when pressed, the Cream Yellow switch produces a sharp and snappy sound that is described as crisp, bright, and percussive.
In terms of feel, both the Carrot and Cream Yellow switches are described as bouncy. Bouncy switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. This means that both switches offer a tactile experience that is characterized by a responsive and energetic typing feel.
Based on the available information, the Aflion Carrot and KTT Cream Yellow switches have different sound profiles, with the Carrot switch offering a mid-pitched and firm sound, while the Cream Yellow switch produces a distinctively clacky sound. However, they both provide a bouncy typing feel, offering a responsive and lively experience. It is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a bouncy feel and a firm, mid-pitched sound, the Carrot switch would be a suitable choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a linear switch with a clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow switch would be a good option.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a fun tactile switch with a unique bouncy tactile experience and a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot is the way to go. It has a light bottom out force of 45 grams and provides a snappy and marbly sound when pressed. Additionally, it offers a bouncy and snappy typing feel, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions.
On the other hand, if you prefer a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow is the ideal choice. With a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, it delivers a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. The shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to its resonant audio feedback, while the lengthened spring adds to its uniquely bouncy typing feel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Carrot and KTT Cream Yellow will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer their unique characteristics and can enhance your typing experience. Consider your desired sound profile and typing feel when making your choice. In the end, it's all about finding the perfect switch that suits your individual needs and typing style.