Aflion Carrot vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the Dareu Firefly both offer unique experiences for tactile switch enthusiasts. The Carrot switch is renowned for its bouncy tactile feel due to its long, two-stage spring, providing users with a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, it produces a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, adding to the overall tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Firefly switch by Dareu offers a different take on tactile switches by delivering a quiet typing experience with a light actuation and subtle clickiness. While the Carrot switch is characterized by its 'Clacky', 'Marbly', and 'Bouncy' features, the Firefly switch is known for being 'Easy-to-press' and 'Chirpy'. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Dareu Firefly both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Carrot and Firefly differ in their bottom housing material, with the Carrot utilizing nylon. Nylon bottom housings elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, the Carrot and Firefly both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Carrot's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound when typing, while the Firefly's nylon bottom housing also results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the top housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound experience as well. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that these switches are known for.
In terms of functionality, the choice of housing materials in the Aflion Carrot and Dareu Firefly affects the overall typing experience in different ways. The split between the top and bottom housing materials influences the sound when pressing down on a key and when letting go. While the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences thanks to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, it is evident that the Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Firefly's slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Carrot requires 45 grams, while this information is not available for the Firefly. Those who prefer a lighter touch may appreciate the Carrot for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Firefly with its slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the differences in actuation force and bottom out force between the two switches cater to individuals with varying preferences in typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Carrot and the Dareu Firefly tactile switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressed, both switches will travel 4 mm from the top to the bottom, giving a similar tactile feedback to the user. With the same travel distance, users can expect a consistent typing experience with either switch. These switches offer a moderate travel distance, providing a balance between comfort and responsiveness for users who prefer a tactile typing experience. Overall, the travel distance of the Aflion Carrot and Dareu Firefly tactile switches are equal, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of key travel and tactile feedback.
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 Dareu Firefly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Firefly for $3.76.
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 offers a clacky and marbly sound profile, characterized by sharp and snappy sounds with a hint of resonance. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch provides a chirpy sound with a subtle hint of clickiness, offering a quieter typing experience compared to traditional clicky switches. The choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference for sound profile, with the Carrot providing a more distinct and vibrant sound while the Firefly offers a quieter and more subdued typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its bouncy and snappy tactile feedback, making typing feel lively and responsive. The Dareu Firefly tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as easy-to-press with gentle resistance, requiring minimal force to activate. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Carrot providing a more dynamic and spring-like feedback, while the Firefly offers a smoother and more effortless typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for tactile feedback and typing comfort.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot and Dareu Firefly tactile switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles, catering to different preferences in typing experience. The Carrot switch provides a bouncy and clacky sound with lively tactile feedback, while the Firefly switch offers a quieter typing experience with easy-to-press keys. Both switches have their own strengths and unique characteristics, and ultimately the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Whether opting for the Carrot or the Firefly, users can expect a satisfying tactile typing experience that suits their specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a light bottom out force of 45 grams and enjoy a bouncy, mid-pitched sound with a firm tactile experience, the Carrot switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience with a hint of clickiness, along with an easy-to-press feel that requires minimal force to activate, the Firefly switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing sensation and sound profile.
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