Aflion Carrot vs. Gateron Glory Yellow

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Glory Yellow present two contrasting yet compelling options for users. The Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, stands out with its long, two-stage spring that provides a uniquely bouncy tactile experience, paired with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. Known for its clacky and feathery characteristics, the Carrot switch is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile bump and auditory feedback with each keystroke, making it a favorite for typists who appreciate a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Yellow, a linear switch, excels in smoothness, offering a heavier feel within the Glory lineup. Its pleasing travel distance contributes to a seamless typing experience that is well-suited for both gaming and long writing sessions, appealing to those who prioritize speed and fluidity without tactile distractions. While both switches have their unique advantages, your choice will ultimately depend on whether you prefer the tactile engagement of the Carrot or the smooth performance of the Glory Yellow; 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 Glory Yellow Linear

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and Gateron Glory Yellow switches exhibit notable contrasts, particularly in their top housings. The Carrot features a polycarbonate top housing, which lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, resonates more distinctly, aiding in producing clear audial feedback perfect for those who enjoy an engaging keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Yellow opts for a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound that absorbs sound waves more effectively. As a softer plastic, nylon creates a sound profile that is duller and rounder, which may appeal to users who prefer a more muted typing experience.

When considering the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, showcasing a shared characteristic that contributes similarly to their overall auditory experience. The nylon bottom housing in both the Aflion Carrot and Gateron Glory Yellow produces a consistent depth and richness in sound. The dampening effect of nylon results in a comparable bottom-out experience, as this softer material works to minimize excess noise while providing a solid tactile sensation. In this regard, the two switches can achieve similar results in terms of typing sound and feel when bottoming out, thanks to the shared use of nylon at the housing's base.

In summary, the Aflion Carrot and Gateron Glory Yellow switches can be differentiated primarily by their top housing materials, where polycarbonate produces a more vibrant sound compared to the muted tones of nylon. However, both switches exhibit a harmonious auditory consistency due to their identical nylon bottom housings. Users can anticipate a deeper sound experience from both switches with the nylon material, while they may need to adjust their expectations regarding the top housing's contribution to overall sound character—sharper in the Carrot and fuller in the Glory Yellow. This blend of materials ensures that each switch has unique nuances while also providing users with the depth associated with a nylon base.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Carrot features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Glory Yellow's actuation force is heavier at 50 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. While the Carrot’s bottom out force is measurable at 45 grams, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unknown, which leaves some uncertainty regarding how it performs when fully pressed. For those seeking a lighter touch in their switches, the Carrot stands out as the clear choice, while the Glory Yellow caters to individuals who favor a more forceful keystroke.

Travel distance

Both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm. This identical measurement means that users can expect a similar keypress experience in terms of depth and actuation. Since both switches provide equal travel distance, any keyboard utilizing these switches would deliver a comparable tactile feedback and feel when typing or gaming, making them suitable choices for individuals who prioritize a consistent switch performance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, the Carrot is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched tones, producing a sharp, bright, and percussive sound upon keystroke. This sound quality contributes to a lively auditory experience that many typists appreciate, especially in environments where auditory feedback is beneficial. In contrast, while the sound characteristics of the Glory Yellow are unlisted, it is generally understood that linear switches tend to produce a quieter and smoother sound with less pronounced acoustic feedback compared to tactile switches. This makes the Glory Yellow less likely to interrupt a shared workspace, making it a suitable choice for quieter settings.

In terms of feel, the Carrot tactile switch stands out with its bouncy and snappy responsiveness, primarily due to its long, two-stage spring design. Users will notice a lively typing experience, enhanced by the stepped tactile feedback that leads to a more engaging feel as you reach the tactile bump during actuation. The descriptions of feel for the Glory Yellow are not specified, but linear switches typically lack the tactile feedback found in tactile switches like the Carrot. Consequently, while the Glory Yellow offers a smooth keystroke, it may not provide the same level of engaging response, resulting in a more fluid yet less interactive typing experience.

In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot switch provides a unique and engaging sound and feel, making it an excellent option for those who enjoy lively feedback during typing. Its clacky sound and tactile characteristics are ideal for users seeking auditory and tactile engagement. Conversely, the Gateron Glory Yellow's linear design delivers a smooth, quieter experience, perfect for users who prefer a minimalist sound profile and a fluid feel without the interruptions associated with tactile switches. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for audio feedback and tactile engagement during their typing experience.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch will ultimately depend on your typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a fun and lively typing experience with a tactile bump, the Carrot switch is an excellent choice due to its bouncy feel, light 45-gram actuation force, and a snappy response that ensures a satisfying feedback for both typing and gaming. The clacky and high-pitched sound profile also adds an engaging auditory element, making it ideal if you appreciate a more pronounced sound while you type. On the other hand, if you lean towards a smoother, more consistent keystroke and prefer the fluidity of linear switches, the Gateron Glory Yellow will serve you well. While its exact bottom-out force is unknown, it is known for offering a pleasant travel distance that can make long typing sessions more enjoyable. This switch is particularly suited for those who want a quieter experience without tactile feedback distractions. Ultimately, consider how you like to type and what context you’ll be using your keyboard in to make the best choice for your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more