Aflion Carrot vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver. The Carrot switch stands out with its unique bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Additionally, it offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches from Gateron's budget-friendly lineup are renowned for their exceptional gaming performance. With a shorter travel distance compared to the standard switches, these linear switches offer lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive edge. Moreover, the medium-high pitch of these switches adds an exhilarating auditory element to gaming sessions. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on which switch suits your needs.
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
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, both the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material creates a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper keystrokes. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, which is advantageous for those who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it a desirable choice for users who want to customize their keyboard aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Carrot and the G Pro 3.0 Silver differ in their materials. The Carrot employs a nylon bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver also utilizes nylon. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of this plastic. Nylon has the ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users who prioritize a quieter typing experience may find the G Pro 3.0 Silver more suitable due to its nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the characteristics of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom housings. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, as it has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Thus, while the Carrot and the G Pro 3.0 Silver share similar top housing materials, their differing bottom housing materials result in variations in the typing experience and sound profiles of the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it is evident that both switches lean towards the lighter end of the spectrum. The Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. These forces indicate that both switches are relatively light and require minimal pressure to activate a keypress.
For those seeking a lighter typing experience, both the Carrot and G Pro 3.0 Silver switches would be suitable choices. The lighter actuation force allows for smoother and faster typing sessions, making them ideal for extended usage during work or gaming. However, it is important to note that the Carrot switch has a slightly lower actuation force, which may provide a marginally lighter feel compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver.
While the actuation forces differ slightly, the bottom out forces of both switches are comparable, with the Carrot being slightly lighter at 45 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's 50 grams. This similarity implies that when pressing the keys all the way down, users can expect a similar level of resistance and feedback from both switches. Therefore, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a bit of resistance may find satisfaction in either option.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch depends on personal preference. If a lighter touch and faster typing are desired, the Carrot switch may be the preferred choice. However, if a slightly firmer and more substantial typing experience is desired, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch may be a better fit.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the same, both having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of the tactile feedback and key feel, you can expect similar results from both switches. Neither one is shorter or longer in terms of travel distance as they both have an equal distance of 4 mm.
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 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 known for its bouncy tactile experience, providing users with a unique and enjoyable typing sensation. The switch also has a firm sound profile, with a mid-pitched tone. This means that when pressed, the Carrot switch produces a crisp, bright, and percussive sound. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch from their budget-friendly G Pro line-up offers lightning-fast responsiveness with a shorter travel distance. It delivers an exceptional gaming experience, making it a popular choice among gamers. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switch has a medium-high pitch sound, adding an exhilarating auditory element to gaming sessions. It can be characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones.
In terms of feel, the Carrot switch offers a bouncy sensation, giving users a spring-like or elastic feedback when pressing the keys. This lively feel provides a rebound effect, enhancing the typing experience. The switch is also described as snappy, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs, making each key press feel super responsive. Additionally, the Carrot switch can be considered subtle, as it has a gentle resistance that still maintains a light typing feel. It is suitable for shared spaces as the sound signature will not be resonant. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is characterized as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The switch can also be described as creamy, with a silky sensation when typing. This could be attributed to the application of lubricant or specific materials used in the switch.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch provides a bouncy tactile experience and offers a mid-pitched, firm sound profile. It is known for its responsiveness and subtle typing feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch delivers an exceptional gaming experience with its lightning-fast responsiveness and medium-high pitch sound. It offers a buttery and creamy typing experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. Depending on your preferences and use cases, either switch can provide a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun tactile experience and a mid-pitched sound profile, the Aflion Carrot switch is an excellent choice. With its bouncy and snappy feel, it provides a unique typing sensation that is both lively and comfortable. The Carrot switch's light bottom out force of 45 grams makes it ideal for extended typing sessions and reduces finger fatigue. Additionally, the Carrot switch's clacky, marbly, and high-pitched sound options add a crisp and bright auditory element to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize gaming performance, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is the way to go. With a shorter travel distance and lightning-fast responsiveness, these linear switches give you a competitive advantage. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches also offer a deep and rich sound profile, characterized by bassy, low-pitched, and thocky options. Lastly, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch depends on your specific preferences and requirements, whether it be for typing comfort or gaming performance.
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