Aflion Carrot vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Carrot and Durock Dolphin are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. The Carrot is a tactile switch known for its bouncy tactile feel provided by its long, two-stage spring, along with a unique mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin is a linear switch favored for its silent operation, making it perfect for quiet office environments. The Dolphin also features a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, offering a satisfying press with a bit more resistance. While the Carrot provides a more lively and tactile typing experience, the Dolphin offers a more subdued and precise 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Durock Dolphin, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiff nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the keyboards they are used in.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Carrot and the Dolphin are made of nylon. This material brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to the typing experience, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. Despite the differences in the top and bottom housing materials, both the Carrot and the Dolphin maintain a high-quality sound profile, with the split qualities of the housing materials affecting different aspects of the typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing on these keyboards. While the polycarbonate top housing of both switches leads to a sharper sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of the Carrot and Dolphin results in a deeper and fuller sound experience. The split qualities of the housing materials between the top and bottom housings ensure that both switches offer a unique typing experience, catering to the preferences of different users. Whether it be the clear and resonant sound of polycarbonate or the dull and round sound of nylon, both the Carrot and the Dolphin deliver a high-quality typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Durock Dolphin linear switch. The Carrot requires 37 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Dolphin's actuation force is unknown, but it requires 62 grams to bottom out, which is considered a medium force. The difference in weight between the two switches may impact the typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter feel of the Carrot for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier Dolphin for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on user preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Carrot offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Dolphin, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Carrot being on the longer side and the Dolphin slightly shorter. Gamers may appreciate the Dolphin's shorter travel distance for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more robust feel may prefer the Carrot. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
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 characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched sound, making it a quieter option suited for environments where noise levels are a concern. When considering the feel, the Carrot switch is known for its bouncy and snappy feedback, offering a lively and responsive typing experience with a subtle tactile bump. In contrast, the Dolphin switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined keypress with reduced friction for a sleek typing experience.
Overall, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch excels in providing a tactile and bouncy typing experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a silent operation with a polished finish, prioritizing a smooth and quiet typing experience with a lower actuation force. While the sound and feel of these switches differ, both options cater to specific preferences and needs, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience whether they prefer a more tactile and bouncy switch like the Carrot or a smoother and quieter switch like the Dolphin. With these differences in mind, users can select the switch that best suits their typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a unique and bouncy tactile experience with a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, along with a clacky, marbly, or high-pitched sound profile, the Carrot switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you value a silent switch with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62 grams, ideal for office environments, and a muted, low-pitched sound profile, then the Dolphin switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should align with your preferences for both feel and sound in order to enhance your typing experience.
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