Aflion Carrot vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch. The Carrot stands out for its unique bouncy tactile experience driven by a long, two-stage spring, accompanied by a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black is praised for being the heaviest linear switch in the G Pro series, catering to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. While the Carrot is characterized by a clacky and bouncy nature, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a creamy and subtle typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Carrot Tactile

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black Linear

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black feature top housings with distinct sound profiles. The Carrot's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to the material's stiffness. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp, resulting in a satisfying clacky sound. While both materials provide unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate in the Carrot is more likely to be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency, whereas the INK blend in the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a different aesthetic appeal.

In terms of bottom housings, the Aflion Carrot's nylon material creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and producing a duller, rounder sound profile. Meanwhile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing offers a different experience with an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. The differences in material properties between nylon and POM create distinct typing experiences for users of these two switches.

When comparing the overall sound and feel of the switches, it's important to consider how the top and bottom housings interact with each other. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key. While the Aflion Carrot and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black may have their differences in housing materials, users can expect unique and nuanced typing experiences from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is evident that the Carrot is lighter in both aspects. The Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which provides a more substantial typing feel. The difference in force between the two switches caters to individuals with varying preferences for typing force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Carrot, while those who prefer a heavier touch may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out force of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing experience for users.

Travel distance

The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This can result in similar typing experiences and feedback for users of both switches. The compact 4mm travel distance of both switches allows for quick and responsive typing, making them suitable for fast typists or gamers. Overall, whether you choose the Aflion Carrot or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, you can expect a consistent and efficient typing experience with a shorter travel distance compared to other switches on the market.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its clacky and marbly sound profile, offering users a sharp and resonant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch provides a clacky and subdued sound, which is more dampened and subtle compared to the Carrot switch. Overall, if you prefer a sharper and more resonant sound, the Carrot switch would be the better choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Black switch delivers a quieter and more subdued typing experience.

Moving on to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is celebrated for its bouncy and snappy feel, providing users with a lively and responsive typing sensation. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offers a creamy and silky feel, giving a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance. Interestingly, both switches are described as having a subtle feel, making them suitable for shared spaces where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. While the Carrot switch offers a more vibrant and bouncy typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch provides a smoother and more effortless keystroke feel.

In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch provides a bouncier and more resonant tactile experience with a sharper sound profile, while the G Pro 3.0 Black switch delivers a smoother and creamier typing feel with a more subdued sound. Depending on your preferences for typing sensation and auditory feedback, either switch can cater to different user needs. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black would depend on whether you prioritize a bouncier, more tactile typing experience or a smoother, quieter keystroke.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a bouncy and tactile typing feel with a light actuation force and a mid-pitched, firm sound profile, the Carrot switch may be the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy linear switch with a balanced actuation and bottom-out force, a medium-high pitch sound profile, and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize bounciness and tactile feedback or smoothness and linear keypresses in your mechanical keyboard switch preference.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more