Aflion Carrot vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it becomes evident that they each offer unique advantages for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Carrot stands out for its bouncy and tactile typing experience, accentuated by a two-stage spring that provides a satisfying feedback. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro excels in its smooth and accessible typing experience, suitable for a wide range of users and applications. While the Carrot boasts a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Gold Red Pro offers a more neutral and subtle sound signature. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Gold Red Pro use polycarbonate for their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a vibrant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
In contrast, both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. This provides a more muffled typing experience, which may be preferred by those looking for a quieter and more subtle typing sound.
Overall, while both the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Gold Red Pro have similar top and bottom housing materials, the slight differences in the characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon will result in unique sound profiles for each switch. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings allow for a balance of sharpness and depth in sound, providing a dynamic typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to their overall performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, we can see that the Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gold Red Pro's 43 grams. Additionally, the Carrot also has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Gold Red Pro, for which the bottom out force is unavailable. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aflion Carrot, as it requires less force to activate and bottom out key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Gold Red Pro. Both switches offer different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Gold Red Pro is the shorter of the two switches. The Carrot switch, being slightly longer, may provide a more traditional typing experience with a bit more depth to each keypress. However, the Gold Red Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker and more responsive typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, giving users a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch provides a neutral and thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying when pressed and released. While the Carrot switch leans towards a brighter and more percussive sound, the Gold Red Pro switch maintains a balanced and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of environments. Both switches deliver distinct auditory experiences, catered to different preferences, with the Carrot being more vibrant and the Gold Red Pro being more versatile.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its bouncy and snappy feedback, offering users a lively and responsive typing experience. It provides a unique tactile sensation with its two-stage spring, giving users a rebound effect when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is described as polished and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. It offers a mild and subtle typing feel, with a gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Carrot switch excels in providing an energetic and dynamic typing experience, while the Gold Red Pro switch focuses on a polished and smooth feel for seamless typing enjoyment.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch stands out with its bouncy and clacky sound, paired with a snappy and lively tactile feel, providing users with a vibrant typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro switch offers a neutral and thocky sound, complemented by a polished and silky typing feel that enhances smoothness and reduces friction. Both switches cater to different preferences and environments, with the Carrot emphasizing energy and bounce, and the Gold Red Pro focusing on versatility and smoothness. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience tailored to specific needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing feel and sound profile. If you enjoy a bouncy and tactile typing experience with a firm sound profile, the Carrot is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and versatile typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the Gold Red Pro would be the better choice. Consider where you'll be using the keyboard and what type of typing experience you prefer when making your decision. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on what suits your needs best.
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