Aflion Carrot vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are two options that stand out: the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red. On one hand, the Carrot switch is best known for its fun tactile experience. With a long, two-stage spring, it offers users a uniquely bouncy sensation when typing. Additionally, the Carrot switch provides a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, adding to the overall enjoyment. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red from Gateron offers a budget-friendly linear switch option. Designed to deliver a smooth typing experience, these switches have a medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. With a frosted light diffuser, the G Pro Red allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, enhancing the visual experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that make them appealing, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Standard
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red share similarities in terms of their housing materials. Both switches employ polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, and its translucency is particularly advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and lighting effects from both the Carrot and the G Pro 3.0 Red when it comes to their top housing.
However, there is a notable difference in the bottom housing materials between the two switches. The Carrot utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Red opts for the same material. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer plastic composition allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, the Carrot's nylon bottom housing will provide a different typing experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's bottom housing, which shares the same material.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housing materials of a switch are divided between the corresponding parts. When pressing down on either the Carrot or the G Pro 3.0 Red, the bottom housing's characteristics will be more prominent in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced. Therefore, while both switches share similarities in their top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials will contribute to a distinct typing experience for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's 45 grams. Similarly, the Carrot has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams while the G Pro 3.0 Red measures at 50 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Carrot switch would be the preferred choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out. This lightness can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions where finger fatigue may become a concern. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a slightly stronger push feel with its slightly heavier forces. This can provide a more substantial typing experience for individuals who prefer a firmer keystroke response.
Despite their differences, it is worth noting that both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. Therefore, for individuals who prioritize a lightweight typing experience, both the Carrot and the G Pro 3.0 Red can provide similar results. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference and the desired feel during typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience a similar distance of movement from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent tactile feedback and a comfortable typing experience. Therefore, whether you choose the Carrot or the G Pro 3.0 Red, you can expect to get similar results in terms of 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Red for $2.77.
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 is best described as clacky and high-pitched. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. It has a moderate sound profile that strikes a balance between different sound characteristics. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, while the Carrot provides a clacky and high-pitched sound experience, the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a more balanced and neutral sound.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch provides a bouncy, snappy, and stepped typing experience. Its long, two-stage spring offers users a uniquely bouncy tactile feedback, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, it has a stepped feel, where users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, featuring a gentle typing feel and reduced friction due to a smooth and refined finish. The keys effortlessly melt into each keystroke, providing a silky sensation.
Taking into account the available information, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a bouncy, snappy, and stepped typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a more balanced and neutral sound profile, along with a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. Therefore, users can choose between a switch with a more distinct and lively sound and feel, or a switch with a smoother and more refined sound and feel. However, it is important to consider personal preferences and the specific use case, as each switch offers its own unique qualities.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Carrot tactile switch or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs.
If you enjoy a lively and bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, then the Aflion Carrot tactile switch would be a great choice for you. The Carrot switch offers a unique two-stage spring that provides a fun and spring-like feedback sensation, making typing feel more alive. Additionally, the sound produced by this switch is clacky, marbly, and high-pitched, which can be crisp, bright, and percussive.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth typing experience with a satisfying auditory experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is worth considering. These switches have a medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The G Pro Red switch also features a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects. In terms of sound, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes.
Considering the feel of the switches, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle feel. These switches provide a lively and elastic feedback sensation, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and strain. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, on the other hand, is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky. These switches offer a smooth and gentle typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, if you prioritize a bouncy and unique tactile experience with a lively sound profile, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is a great choice. However, if you prefer a smooth typing experience with a satisfying auditory experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch would be a suitable option. Consider your personal preferences, typing style, and desired sound and feel when making your decision. Happy typing!
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