Aflion Carrot vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Glimp. The Carrot is a tactile switch that is best known for its bouncy tactile experience provided by its long, two-stage spring. Along with this unique sensation, the Carrot switch offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, we have the Glimp switch, a linear switch that strikes the perfect balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. With its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, the Glimp switch provides a satisfying and responsive typing feel. Additionally, it is worth noting that the Glimp switch produces a fairly clacky sound profile, adding an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the KTT Glimp have similar housing materials for both the top and bottom parts of the switch. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting.
Similarly, both switches have a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, emphasizing the importance of the nylon material in enhancing the overall typing experience.
Although the housing materials are the same for both switches, there may be slight variations in sound and feel due to the distribution of the qualities between the top and bottom housings. When pressing down a key, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will be more noticeable, contributing to the overall impact and sound during the keypress. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing the key, adding to the overall tactile and auditory experience.
In summary, the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Glimp share similar housing materials that enhance the sound and feel of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. The slight differences in the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings result in a nuanced typing experience for both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. First, in terms of weight, the Carrot is lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Glimp is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Carrot would be a suitable choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. This is beneficial for individuals who need to type for extended periods, such as in a work setting or during long gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force allows for easier and more comfortable typing.
However, for those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Glimp provides a bit more resistance. With its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, typing on the Glimp switch offers a more tactile feedback and a sense of solidity.
It is important to consider one's personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these switches. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the Carrot and the Glimp means that users will experience slightly different typing sensations. Ultimately, those who favor a lighter typing experience should opt for the Carrot, while individuals seeking a more substantial and firm feel may prefer the Glimp.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Glimp 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 the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar tactile feedback and typing experience 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 KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 best described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. The Glimp linear switch, on the other hand, is also described as clacky, but it is also considered to have a neutral sound profile. A neutral switch produces a moderate sound, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Based on the available information, both the Carrot and Glimp switches offer enjoyable auditory elements to your typing sessions, but the Carrot is characterized by a higher-pitched sound compared to the Glimp.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle typing experience. The long, two-stage spring of the Carrot switch provides a uniquely bouncy tactile experience, giving users a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Carrot switch is snappy and super responsive, thanks to its longer or dual-staged spring. It also has a stepped feel, meaning users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke. Moreover, the Carrot switch can be described as feathery, offering a light and comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. It is also considered subtle, providing a gentle resistance and maintaining a light typing feel. In comparison, the KTT Glimp linear switch offers a creamy and mild typing experience. A creamy switch is smooth and buttery, providing a silky sensation when typing. A mild switch, like the Glimp, offers a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, while the Glimp switch has a clacky and neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Carrot switch provides a bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle feel, while the Glimp switch offers a creamy and mild feel. Both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences, but the Carrot is characterized by a higher-pitched sound and a more lively feel, while the Glimp provides a smooth and gentle typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences, either switch can be a suitable choice for different typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun tactile experience with a bouncy feel and a mid-pitched sound profile, then the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is the way to go. With its light bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a unique typing feel that is lively and responsive. The Carrot switch is also known for its clacky and marbly sound profile, which adds a crisp and bright auditory element to your typing sessions.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch that provides a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance, then the KTT Glimp linear switch is a great choice. With its bottom out force of 53 grams, it strikes a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. The Glimp switch offers a satisfying and responsive feel, with a fairly clacky sound profile that adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Consider whether you prefer a bouncy and tactile experience or a smoother and more gentle typing feel. Additionally, think about whether you prefer a mid-pitched or clacky sound profile. Both switches have their own unique qualities and can enhance your typing experience in different ways.
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