Aflion Carrot vs. Outemu Crystal
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Crystal 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 and the Outemu Crystal. The Carrot is a tactile switch, loved for its long, two-stage spring that provides users with a uniquely bouncy tactile experience. In addition, it offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Crystal is a linear switch known for its fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a unique, linear typing experience. When typing on the Crystals, one can expect a neutral sound profile. Both switches offer distinctive characteristics that appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Crystal share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it enhances the visual aesthetics of the switch. Therefore, if sound and lighting are the primary concerns, both the Carrot and the Crystal would provide similar results.
However, where these switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Carrot utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and generates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Crystal features a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with its top housing. Consequently, the Crystal delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound throughout the switch's operation.
The distinction between the top and bottom housings of these switches is significant. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will be felt, impacting the bottom-out sound and tactile feel. Conversely, the top housing material will primarily influence the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users should consider their preferences for both the actuation and release sounds when selecting between the Carrot and the Crystal, as the bottom housing will play a more prominent role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch, there are noticeable differences in both their actuation force and bottom out force. The Carrot exhibits a lighter touch, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the Crystal requires a slightly heavier touch, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams.
For those who prefer a lightweight typing experience, the Carrot would be a suitable choice as its lighter actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Crystal provides a medium-light touch, offering a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This can be favorable for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel while typing.
Despite these differences, it's important to note that both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preferences. If a lighter touch is desired, the Carrot would be the lighter option, while the Crystal would be the heavier alternative. However, if similar results are desired, individuals can achieve a comparable experience by selecting the appropriate switch based on their preference for lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback, with the Carrot switch providing a tactile bump and the Crystal switch offering a smooth linear experience. Therefore, regardless of which one you choose, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and overall typing experience.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 tactile switch is known for its uniquely bouncy tactile experience. It has a long, two-stage spring that offers users a fun and lively feel when typing. In terms of sound, the Carrot switch produces a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched. The sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, similar to tapping on a solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding.
On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal linear switch provides a different typing experience. These switches have a fairly elastic feel and are medium-light in weight. They offer a smooth and refined typing experience, characterized as polished. The Crystal switch has a neutral sound profile when typing, described as chirpy and high-pitched. The switches have a unique acoustic signature with a subtle squeak to them.
Considering all the available information, the Aflion Carrot switch and the Outemu Crystal switch have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch offers a bouncy and snappy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Crystal switch provides a polished and smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile.
If you prefer a more lively and tactile typing experience with a distinct sound, the Aflion Carrot switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a smooth and refined typing experience with a subtle sound, the Outemu Crystal switch would be a great option. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you're looking for a fun tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch would be a great choice. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it provides a light and bouncy feel with a snappy response. The Carrot switch offers a unique typing experience that is enjoyable for extended periods of use. In terms of sound, the Carrot switch has a clacky, marbly, and high-pitched profile that adds a sharp and crisp sound to your typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium-light weight, the Outemu Crystal linear switch would be the better option. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, it offers a balanced typing feel that is neither too heavy nor too light. The Crystal switch provides an elastic and linear experience that is ideal for those who prefer a neutral sound profile. It has a chirpy and high-pitched sound, adding a unique acoustic signature to your typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch depends on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you enjoy a bouncy and lively typing experience with a variety of sharp and crisp sounds, the Carrot switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a smooth and refined typing feel with a unique acoustic signature, the Crystal switch would be the better option for you. Consider your typing style and preferences to make an informed decision and enhance your overall typing experience.
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