Aflion Carrot vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Flaming Purple offer unique experiences for users. The Carrot is a tactile switch known for its bouncy tactile experience provided by a long, two-stage spring, along with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple is a linear switch from TTC, standing out for its resonant character and slightly bassier sound signature that adds a poppy undertone to each keystroke. While the Carrot is described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched, the Flaming Purple is known for being bassy, feathery, and low-pitched. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
47g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Flaming Purple, we can see that they both use polycarbonate for the top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures a consistent sound profile and aesthetic appeal, as clear housings are more likely to be made of polycarbonate. This similarity between the two switches will result in a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, the Carrot and Flaming Purple differ in the material used for their bottom housing. The Carrot utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Flaming Purple also uses nylon for the bottom housing, showcasing a similar typing experience in terms of sound qualities and the feel of the switch. Both switches benefit from the characteristics of nylon, creating a rounder and duller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing of the switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound depth.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Flaming Purple differ in material, the split qualities of each housing material enhance the overall typing experience. The characteristics of the bottom housing, whether it be polycarbonate or nylon, will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. By utilizing different housing materials for the top and bottom, both switches aim to provide a well-rounded typing experience that combines the best qualities of both polycarbonate and nylon.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Carrot has a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Flaming Purple's 42 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Carrot requiring 45 grams and the Flaming Purple requiring 47 grams. This means that while the Carrot may feel slightly lighter to type on, both switches provide a relatively light typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel for extended periods of typing or gaming, either of these switches would be a good choice. Those who prefer a bit more resistance for a stronger push feel may want to look for switches with heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference may seem minor, but gamers and typists who prioritize fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Flaming Purple switch. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming may lean towards the Aflion Carrot switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, offering a balance between responsiveness and key depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its mid-pitched and firm sound profile, described as clacky and marbly, offering a crisp and bouncy auditory experience. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch stands out with its resonant and slightly bassier sound signature, described as bassy and resonant, providing a more immersive and engaging keystroke sound. While the Carrot offers a sharper and snappier sound, the Flaming Purple delivers a deeper and richer tone, creating a unique auditory flair for users.
In terms of feel, both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch are described as feathery, offering a light and effortless typing experience with little exertion required from the fingers. The Carrot is further noted for its bouncy and snappy feedback, providing a lively and responsive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple is acknowledged for its easy-to-press nature, ensuring minimal resistance during key presses and enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. Both switches are ideal for users seeking a comfortable and low-impact typing experience.
Overall, while the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, they both provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics. Whether you prefer a sharper, bouncier sound with a snappy feel or a deeper, richer sound with a feathery touch, both switches cater to different preferences while ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the Carrot and the Flaming Purple will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, but rest assured that you will achieve similar results in terms of quality and performance regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Carrot tactile switch or the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, you should take into account the unique characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a bouncy and tactile typing experience with a mid-pitched sound profile, the Carrot switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a resonant and bassier sound profile with a feathery and swift typing feel, the Flaming Purple switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve. Whether you prioritize a playful and tactile feel or a smooth and linear typing experience, both switches offer distinctive qualities to enhance your typing journey.
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