Aflion Carrot vs. KTT F2
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the KTT F2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the KTT F2 offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Carrot switch stands out for its bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long two-stage spring, and produces a mid-pitched, firm sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switch boasts a distinct hollow sound signature and a lightly textured feel with a medium-light weightiness for comfortable typing. While the Carrot switch is described as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', and 'Bouncy', the F2 is characterized as 'Feathery', 'Mild', and 'Subdued'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, providing users with varying sensory experiences. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and KTT F2 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which creates a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Carrot utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound during typing. In contrast, the F2 opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, which also contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile similar to the top housing.
While the top housings of the Aflion Carrot and KTT F2 are both made of polycarbonate, their bottom housings differ with the Carrot using nylon and the F2 using polycarbonate. This distinction is important as the qualities of each housing material affect the sound and feel of the switch differently. The nylon bottom housing of the Carrot influences the bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the F2 contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile. When comparing the two, the choice of housing material for the bottom can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users.
Ultimately, the Aflion Carrot and KTT F2 offer unique combinations of housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Carrot's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper and higher-pitched typing experience. Users can choose between these options based on their preference for sound and feel when typing, ensuring a tailored experience for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a smooth and easy typing experience. In comparison, the KTT F2 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, offering a bit more resistance for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Carrot is lighter overall, making it ideal for extended typing sessions and gaming. The F2, on the other hand, offers a slightly heavier touch, which may be preferred by those looking for a bit more resistance in their key presses. Overall, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, it is clear that the Carrot has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the F2's 3.5 mm. The Carrot's 4.0mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, while the F2's 3.5mm travel distance offers a slightly shallower experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the F2's shorter travel distance, while those who value a more deliberate key press may opt for the Carrot. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific feel that the user desires in their 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 KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Carrot switch is known for its clacky and marbly qualities, providing a sharp and resonant sound profile. In contrast, the KTT F2 switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, creating a dampened and subtle auditory experience. The Carrot switch will give a more pronounced and sharp sound, while the F2 switch aims for a milder and less intrusive sound that may be more suitable for shared spaces.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot switch is all about providing a bouncy and snappy tactile experience with a unique two-stage spring mechanism. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switch offers a feathery and mild typing feel, catering to those looking for a lighter touch and reduced finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a subtle tactile feedback, but the Carrot switch may provide more of a lively and responsive typing experience compared to the F2 switch.
Overall, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT F2 linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Carrot switch leans towards a sharper and more pronounced sound with a bouncy tactile feel, the F2 switch provides a more neutral sound and a lighter touch for comfortable typing. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the unique bounciness of the Carrot switch or the feather-light feel of the F2 switch to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a light bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy tactile experience with a firm sound profile, the Carrot switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a distinct hollow sound signature with a lightly textured feel, the F2 switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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