Aflion Carrot vs. Huano Grape Orange
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Huano Grape Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the Huano Grape Orange present two distinct typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The Aflion Carrot is celebrated for its tactile feedback and lively bounciness, courtesy of its long, two-stage spring, which delivers a satisfying and engaging experience characterized by its clacky, high-pitched sound profile. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy feeling each keystroke and prefer a more dynamic interaction with their keyboard. On the other hand, the Huano Grape Orange offers an exceptionally light touch with an actuation force of just 40g, making it a stellar choice for users who prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, especially during long sessions. While the Carrot invites users to revel in tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction, the Grape Orange promises speed and comfort without the physical strain. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
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
3.60 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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Huano Grape Orange share striking similarities in their choice of housing materials, utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing. This material is known for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to its clear and resonant sound characteristics, making it an ideal choice for applications where sound fidelity is key. Additionally, both switches benefit aesthetically from the translucency of polycarbonate, which enhances RGB lighting effects if utilized. Thus, in terms of sound and aesthetic qualities, both the Carrot and Grape Orange should provide similar auditory experiences and visual outcomes when integrated into a keyboard setup.
In contrast to their similarities in top housing materials, the Aflion Carrot and Huano Grape Orange diverge when it comes to their bottom housings, both made from nylon. This choice in bottom housing material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than harder alternatives. The unique sound dampening qualities of nylon contribute to a duller and rounder auditory experience, contrasting with the sharper sounds produced by the polycarbonate top. This means that while users will experience the high and clear tones when pressing the keys, the nylon bottom housing will ground the overall sound output, creating a balance between the two distinct auditory characteristics.
The interplay between the top and bottom housing materials creates a dynamic sound experience with both the Aflion Carrot and Huano Grape Orange switches. The polycarbonate top housing dictates the initial sound during key release, delivering bright and crisp tones, while the nylon bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound profile, enriching the overall experience with deeper notes. The combination of these two materials exemplifies how both switches, despite their differing bottom housings, can achieve a distinctive and rich auditory signature. This careful selection of materials allows both the Carrot and Grape Orange to excel in delivering a well-rounded and satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, both offer relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users who prioritize ease of typing or gaming. The Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Grape Orange features a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Carrot the lighter option, which may be preferable for users who intend to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the Grape Orange, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, could provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience for those who appreciate a stronger push feel. Overall, while both switches are relatively light, the Carrot offers a slightly easier pressing experience, while the Grape Orange leans toward a firmer touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, the Aflion Carrot features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Huano Grape Orange has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Carrot provides a deeper keystroke, which might appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Conversely, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Grape Orange could be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive experience, the Grape Orange is the better choice, while the Carrot is ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback. Thus, the Aflion Carrot is the longer travel switch at 4 mm, and the Huano Grape Orange is the shorter one at 3.6 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 Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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 switch presents a distinctive auditory profile characterized by its mid-pitched, clacky tones that produce a sharp and crisp sound upon actuation. This makes each keystroke feel percussive, giving users that satisfying auditory feedback that many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts treasure. The clarity in the Carrot's sound can be appealing for those who appreciate a brighter, more engaging acoustic experience. In contrast, the Huano Grape Orange linear switch does not have an explicitly defined sound profile documented here. However, it is essential to remember that the overall sound experience of any switch can be heavily influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycap material, potentially resulting in varied acoustic outputs.
In terms of feel, the Carrot switch is renowned for offering a bouncy and snappy sensation, primarily due to its unique two-stage spring mechanism. This design not only enhances the tactile feedback with a lively rebound but also ensures an engaging typing experience characterized by its stepped tactile nature. Users can expect a responsive interaction as they move across the keys, with a balance between tactile feedback and smooth return. On the other hand, the Grape Orange switch is known for its exceptionally light and feathery feel, allowing for effortless actuation, especially ideal for extended typing sessions. While it may not provide the same level of tactile feedback as the Carrot, its light actuation force greatly reduces finger fatigue, making it a comfortable choice for prolonged use.
In summary, both switches cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Aflion Carrot excels in sound and tactile feedback, providing enthusiasts with a lively and engaging typing experience perfect for those who appreciate a pronounced tactile response and audible clicks. In comparison, the Huano Grape Orange offers a smooth, linear experience marked by its light actuation, making it suitable for users seeking ease and comfort over tactile feedback. Both switches serve distinct purposes, and your choice should align with your typing goals; whether you find joy in feedback or prefer effortless keystrokes, each provides unique attributes that can cater to different user preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch greatly depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience that is both bouncy and snappy, and if you appreciate the unique sound of a clacky switch, the Carrot is an excellent option. Its light 45-gram bottom-out force, coupled with a lively feel from its dual-stage spring, makes typing a fun experience, especially if you tend to type for shorter durations or engage in gaming. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience for prolonged sessions, the Grape Orange is the way to go, thanks to its ultra-low 40-gram actuation force that minimizes finger fatigue. The Grape Orange's linear nature means it lacks the tactile bump, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter and more fluid typing style—perfect for work environments or lengthy tasks. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your desired feedback and intended usage, either opting for the charismatic fun of the Carrot or the seamless ease of the Grape Orange.
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