Aflion Carrot vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Carrot and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately see the differences in their design and build. The Aflion Carrot is a tactile switch known for its bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. It offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch made of fully polycarbonate construction, resulting in a bright and chirpy sound signature. This switch provides a silky smooth typing experience that appeals to those looking for a sleek and polished feel. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. However, the Carrot's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softness, creating a different typing experience compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing.
While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housing materials between the Carrot and the V3 Crystal Pro leads to varying sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Carrot offers a duller and rounder sound, which can provide a more tactile typing experience compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro. This difference in sound and feel when bottoming out on the switches highlights the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials for mechanical switches plays a significant role in the sound and feel of typing on a keyboard. The Aflion Carrot's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offers a unique typing experience by providing a balance between sharpness and depth in sound. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout the housing creates a more uniform and crisp sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetic preferences.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 48 grams. When it comes to bottoming out, the Carrot requires a lighter force of 45 grams, while the V3 Crystal Pro needs a heavier force of 60 grams. The Carrot provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the V3 Crystal Pro offers a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches offer different weight options, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Carrot offering a bit more depth compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro, while those who appreciate a deeper key press may gravitate towards the Carrot. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing or gaming style.
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 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 known for its mid-pitched and firm sound profile that can be described as clacky and marbly, providing a sharp, snappy, and resonant sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch stands out with its bright and chirpy sound signature, offering a unique acoustic signature with a little squeak to them. The choice between the two switches in terms of sound ultimately depends on personal preference and factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch are described as providing a bouncy typing experience, giving users a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation with lively keys that rebound when pressed. The Carrot switch further offers a snappy and stepped feel with a bouncy and feathery touch, while the Crystal Pro switch provides a polished and smooth typing experience due to its fully polycarbonate construction. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience for users to enjoy.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offer different sound and feel qualities to users, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience with their unique characteristics. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the bouncy and firm sound profile of the Carrot switch or the chirpy and smooth typing experience of the Crystal Pro switch. Overall, both switches offer a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience for newcomers to explore and enjoy.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun and bouncy tactile switch with a light bottom out force, the Aflion Carrot would be a great choice. Its two-stage spring offers a unique tactile experience and a firm sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky smooth linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro would be a better fit. The fully polycarbonate construction of the V3 Crystal Pro provides a bright and chirpy sound signature. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for sound and feel, as well as whether you prefer a tactile or linear switch. Both switches offer a different typing experience, so consider your typing style and needs before making a decision.
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