Aflion Carrot vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Aflion Carrot and TTC Flame Red, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features and experiences. The Carrot is a tactile switch that stands out with its long, two-stage spring, providing users with a uniquely bouncy tactile experience. It also offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, adding to its appeal. On the other hand, the Flame Red is a linear switch that catches the eye with its dazzling light diffuser, making it ideal for those who prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on the Flame Red switch offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
54g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Flame Red differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Carrot features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which produces a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Flame Red utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Carrot and the Flame Red utilize nylon. Therefore, they share the quality of eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic composition allows it to absorb more sound, contributing to a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that the typing experience on both switches will share these qualities.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play distinct roles in the overall sound experience. The Carrot's polycarbonate top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released, creating a sharper and resonant sound. Conversely, the Flame Red's nylon top housing will contribute to the sound when a key is released, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. Consequently, the contrasting top housing materials of the Carrot and Flame Red will provide different auditory experiences when keys are released.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Carrot features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Flame Red requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 54 grams, which can be considered medium-light. It is important to note that both switches offer a relatively light and comfortable typing experience. If one is looking for a lighter switch to enable longer typing sessions, the Carrot would be the preferred choice. However, for those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the Flame Red with its heavier forces would be a suitable option. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance ensures a consistent typing experience for users of both switches. Therefore, whether you choose the Aflion Carrot or the TTC Flame Red, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile and linear experience, respectively, without any noticeable difference in the key's travel distance.
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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 best known for its uniquely bouncy tactile experience. When typing on the Carrot, users can expect a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, which can be described as clacky. This produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving it a crisp and bright sound profile. Additionally, the Carrot switch offers a variety of feel options. It has a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. It is also described as snappy, indicating its super responsiveness due to longer or dual-staged springs. Furthermore, the Carrot switch can be classified as a stepped switch, meaning it has a more mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Lastly, the Carrot has a feathery switch option available, which is exceptionally light to press and reduces finger fatigue. Overall, the Carrot offers a fun tactile experience with a firm and mid-pitched clacky sound.
On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red linear switch primarily stands out for its visual feature, the dazzling light diffuser. These switches are recommended for those who prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard. When typing on the Flame Red switch, users will feel a weighty smoothness and experience a clacky sound profile. Although the sound descriptors for the Flame Red switch are unclear based on the given information, it can be assumed that the sound is neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile and is suitable for most intents and purposes. The Flame Red switch also offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It can be described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch provides a unique and bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Flame Red switch offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, with additional features like a dazzling light diffuser for backlit keyboards. While the qualities of the switches differ, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. Therefore, it is recommended to consider these factors when selecting a switch to achieve the desired results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a uniquely bouncy tactile experience and a mid-pitched, firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch would be a great choice for you. Its light bottom out force of 45 grams and the fun, spring-like feedback it provides make it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, if you prefer a clacky sound profile, the Carrot switch is the one to go for.
On the other hand, if you prioritize visuals and want a switch that complements your backlit, RGB keyboard perfectly, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is the way to go. With its dazzling light diffuser, these switches are the best choice for adding a visual element to your typing experience. The Flame Red switch provides a weighty smoothness when typing and offers a clacky sound profile, which some users might find enjoyable.
In terms of sound, the Carrot switch can be described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched, whereas the Flame Red switch has a more neutral sound profile. If you prefer a switch with a sharp and snappy sound, the Carrot switch would be your pick. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes, the Flame Red switch is a great option.
When it comes to feel, the Carrot switch is known for being bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle. If you want a switch that provides a lively, rebounding feel and requires little exertion from your fingers, the Carrot switch would be ideal. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more gentle and polished typing experience, the Flame Red switch is a good choice. It offers a mild and polished feel, resulting in smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch depends on your preferences. If you value a bouncy tactile experience, a clacky sound profile, and a lightweight switch, the Carrot switch is the one for you. However, if you prioritize visuals, a weighty smoothness when typing, and a more moderate sound and feel, the Flame Red switch would be a better fit. Consider your typing style, preferences, and the overall aesthetics of your setup when making your decision.
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