Aflion Carrot vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Gold Red. Each switch offers unique qualities that appeal to different preferences and typing styles. The Carrot is known for its bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Additionally, this switch produces a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Gold Red switches provide a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. These linear switches add a snappy sound profile to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. While these general pointers may help you decide which switch suits your preferences, it's essential to delve deeper into the characteristics of each switch to make the best choice for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
43g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the TTC Gold Red both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice of material results in a similar outcome for both switches in terms of sound profile. Polycarbonate is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. Its stiffness allows for a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Carrot and Gold Red offer a similar sound experience and visual appeal due to their polycarbonate top housing.
In contrast, the bottom housing material differs between the Carrot and the Gold Red. The Carrot features a nylon bottom housing, which is recognized as a classic material for switch housings. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gold Red also boasts a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience in terms of sound. Both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of nylon, providing a distinct sound profile that enhances the typing experience.
While the housing materials for the top and bottom differ between the Carrot and the Gold Red, the overall impact on the switch's performance is divided. Pressing down on either switch allows you to experience the qualities of the bottom housing material, as it significantly influences the sound and feel upon bottoming out a key. Conversely, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches integrate the unique attributes of their respective housing materials to deliver a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences and needs.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gold Red's 43 grams. Similarly, the Carrot also has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Gold Red requires a slightly heavier force of 50 grams to fully press down.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, both the Carrot and the Gold Red can provide similar results as their actuation and bottom out forces are relatively close. Typing on a keyboard with these switches would require less effort, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing, making them suitable for work or extended gaming sessions.
However, for users who enjoy a more substantial and forceful typing feel, the Carrot may feel slightly less satisfying compared to the Gold Red. The Gold Red's higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push, offering a more tactile and responsive typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch comes down to personal preferences. If a lighter and smoother typing experience is desired, the Carrot would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, for those who prefer a heavier and more substantial keystroke, the Gold Red would be the better option.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and TTC Gold Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. The travel distance of a switch is important as it determines the amount of physical feedback and keypress stability. With both the Carrot and Gold Red switches, users can expect a consistent and satisfying tactile or linear experience respectively, thanks to their equal travel distances of 4 mm. Whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Carrot or the smooth linear action of the Gold Red, both switches will provide a similar level of travel distance and overall typing experience.
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 TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 produces a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. This means that when the keys are pressed, you can expect a crisp, bright, and percussive sound. It is also described as clacky, which adds to its sharp and snappy sound. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a snappy sound profile that is described as thocky. This means that the sound produced is deep, rich, and satisfying. It is not as sharp or crisp as the Carrot switch but adds a touch of personality without being too ostentatious. If you prefer a sharper sound with a higher pitch, the Carrot switch would be a better choice. However, if you prefer a deeper, more satisfying sound, the Gold Red switch would be more suitable.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its bouncy and snappy feel. The long, two-stage spring provides a uniquely bouncy tactile experience, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. It is also described as feathery, which means it requires little exertion to press and reduces finger fatigue. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a silky and subtle feel. It provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a switch with a lively, bouncy feel, the Carrot switch would be a better choice. However, if you prefer a smoother, more refined typing experience, the Gold Red switch would be more suitable.
Based on the available information, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch provides a sharp and snappy sound profile with a bouncy and snappy feel, while the Gold Red switch offers a deep and satisfying sound profile with a silky and subtle feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a sharper sound and a bouncy feel, the Carrot switch would be the better option. However, if you prefer a deeper sound and a smoother feel, the Gold Red switch would be more suitable. It is important to consider your personal preferences and the desired typing experience when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun tactile switch with a uniquely bouncy tactile experience and a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot switch is an excellent choice. With a light bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a feathery feel that reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Carrot switch is also described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched in terms of sound, adding a crisp and bright sound to your keyboard.
On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile, the TTC Gold Red linear switch would be a great option. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 50 grams, it provides a mild and silky feel that is approachable to most users. The Gold Red switch is described as thocky, low-pitched, and neutral in terms of sound, offering a deep and satisfying sound without being too ostentatious.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch depends on your preferences. If you value a bouncy feel, a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, and a light typing experience, the Carrot switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a smooth typing experience, a mild and silky feel, and a slightly higher level of resistance, the Gold Red switch would be a better fit for you. So consider your desired feel and sound profile to make the right decision for your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
