Aflion Carrot vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown

Overview

Introduction:

The Aflion Carrot and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer a tactile typing experience. While both switches provide a level of feedback, they have distinct qualities that set them apart. The Carrot switch is best known for its uniquely bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Additionally, it offers a firm sound profile that adds a satisfying auditory feedback to each keystroke. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown, part of Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series, presents a more subtle tactile sensation that is designed to enhance typing flow without overpowering it. The switch also boasts a frosted light diffuser, ensuring a brighter RGB lighting experience and adding an extra visual dimension to your typing sessions. Moreover, it features a medium-high pitched sound that further enhances the overall joy of using this switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Aflion Carrot Tactile

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

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Housing materials

Comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, we find that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in similar benefits for both switches, as polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Thus, users can expect comparable sound and visual effects from the top housing of both switches.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Carrot incorporates nylon while the G Pro 3.0 Brown also utilizes nylon for this component. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Nylon, being a softer plastic, generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics contributes to a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a distinct, richer typing experience from both switches thanks to the nylon bottom housing they share.

In summary, the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in similar sound profiles and compatibility with RGB lighting. On the other hand, they also both employ nylon for the bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience when typing. While their individual properties may differ slightly, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound and tactile feedback from both switches.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires a heavier force of 55 grams to register a keystroke. Similarly, in terms of bottom out force, the Carrot requires 45 grams of force, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a higher bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Carrot provides a lighter typing experience overall compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown, making it more suitable for individuals looking for a smoother and less physically demanding typing or gaming session. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a stronger push feel, which can provide a more substantial, tactile typing experience for those who prefer a heavier switch. Both switches have their advantages based on individual preferences, with the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Carrot being preferable for extended typing sessions, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a firmer and more forceful keystroke for users seeking a heavier touch.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when selecting a tactile switch for a keyboard. In the case of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressed down, both switches will provide a similar tactile feedback and key feel. With their equal travel distance, users can expect a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for producing a clacky and marbly sound profile. It offers a sharp, snappy, and resonant sound when pressed, similar to the crisp sound of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is not provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. If you are looking for a switch with a sharper and crisper sound, the Carrot may be a suitable choice.

Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is described as bouncy, snappy, and stepped. It offers a unique and lively tactile feedback, thanks to its long, two-stage spring that provides a spring-like rebound when pressed. Additionally, its stepped feel allows for some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving a more mild tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is described as easy-to-press, mild, and stepped. These switches offer minimal resistance during key presses, requiring only a gentle force to activate. They provide a low-impact typing feel that enhances the typing experience by being responsive and comfortable. Both switches seem to offer a pleasant and approachable tactility, with the Carrot having a more unique and bouncier feel compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown.

Considering all the available information, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch stands out for its bouncy and stepped feel, as well as its clacky and marbly sound profile. It offers users a uniquely tactile and lively experience, accompanied by a mid-pitched and firm sound. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is known for its easy-to-press and mild feel, providing a gentle bump that won't disrupt the typing flow. Although the sound profile of the G Pro 3.0 Brown is not explicitly mentioned, it can be assumed to offer a pleasing auditory feedback based on its other qualities. Overall, both switches provide a tactile typing experience with their own unique characteristics. If you prefer a bouncier feel and a sharper sound, the Carrot may be the switch for you. If you prefer a gentler and more responsive feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be a good option.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a fun and bouncy tactile switch with a light bottom out force, the Aflion Carrot would be a great choice for you. Its unique long, two-stage spring provides a pleasantly spring-like and elastic feedback sensation, giving you a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Carrot offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more economical solution without compromising on quality and are looking for a tactile switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is the way to go. These switches provide a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, carefully crafted to provide a gentle bump that won't overpower your typing flow. With a frosted light diffuser, the G Pro Brown also enhances the visual experience by making your RGB lighting shine brighter. Overall, both switches have their unique qualities and strengths, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown Tactile

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more