Aflion Carrot vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two unique and distinct mechanical keyboard switches: the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Grapefruit. These switches may seem similar at first glance, as they both offer a delightful typing experience, but upon closer inspection, they have their unique characteristics. The Carrot is a tactile switch renowned for its bouncy tactile feedback, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Additionally, it produces a firm and mid-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Grapefruit is a linear switch that stands out for its soft and light feel, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. It emits a pleasing "baritone" sound, falling just short of a deep bass profile. Both switches have their distinct qualities, making them appealing choices for different preferences. However, let's delve deeper into their specific attributes, so you can make an informed decision and find the ideal switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Grapefruit, specifically their polycarbonate top housing, share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Its translucency proves especially beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a visually appealing illumination effect. Consequently, users can expect similar acoustic and aesthetic qualities from both the Carrot and Grapefruit switches due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
Contrastingly, the two switches differ when it comes to their bottom housing material. The Carrot employs nylon for its bottom housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, known as a classic switch housing material, absorbs more sound due to its relatively softer composition compared to harder plastics. This absorption effect produces a duller and rounder sound, creating a unique typing experience. Similarly, the Grapefruit also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, yielding a comparable deep and full sound profile. As a result, users can expect a similar typing experience from both switches, thanks to their shared nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that when the top and bottom housings vary in a switch, each housing material imparts different qualities to the overall sound and feel. While pressing down on either the Carrot or Grapefruit, users will feel the effects of the bottom housing, which significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound produced when releasing a key is more influenced by the top housing. Therefore, the distinct combination of the top and bottom housing materials in each switch contributes to a nuanced typing experience, with variations in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. The Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Grapefruit, which requires 45 grams. Similarly, the Carrot has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams in contrast to the Grapefruit's 53 grams. This means that both the actuation and bottom out forces of the Carrot switch are lighter than those of the Grapefruit switch.
Considering the weight, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Carrot switch due to its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. This allows for longer typing sessions without causing as much fatigue. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Grapefruit switch, as its heavier forces provide a stronger push feel. This can be desirable for individuals who appreciate a more tactile and responsive typing sensation.
In summary, while the Aflion Carrot tactile switch has lighter actuation and bottom out forces compared to the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, the choice ultimately depends on personal preferences regarding typing feel and duration.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance they travel from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Carrot or the Grapefruit switch, you can expect to feel a 4 mm travel distance when you press down on the keys.
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 Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. This means that it produces a sound that is not too high-pitched or low-pitched, with a solid and crisp tone when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile, which means it has a deeper and more bass-heavy tone compared to the Carrot switch. While the Carrot switch has a clacky and marbly sound, the Grapefruit switch provides a soft and deep baritone sound. It's important to note that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. However, if you prefer a more crisp and bright sound, the Carrot switch would be the better choice, whereas if you prefer a deeper and more bass-heavy sound, the Grapefruit switch is the way to go.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a uniquely bouncy tactile experience. It has a long, two-stage spring that provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This gives the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. The Carrot switch is also described as snappy, meaning it is super responsive and has a more alive typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is described as polished, indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Carrot switch has a bouncy and snappy feel, the Grapefruit switch offers a lighter and more polished feel. If you prefer a switch with a lively and springy feedback, the Carrot switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a smoother and more refined typing experience, the Grapefruit switch would be a better choice.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is best known for its bouncy and snappy feel, as well as its mid-pitched and firm sound profile. It offers a uniquely tactile experience with a lively key feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is special for its soft and light feel, along with a low-pitched sound profile. It provides a smoother and more polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference. If you prefer a switch with a bouncy and snappy feel, as well as a crisp and bright sound, the Carrot switch would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a lighter and more polished feel, as well as a deeper and more bass-heavy sound, the Grapefruit switch would be the way to go. In both cases, you can expect a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun, bouncy tactile switch with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, then the Aflion Carrot switch is the right choice for you. It offers a uniquely bouncy tactile experience with a light bottom out force of 45 grams. Additionally, the Carrot switch has a clacky and marbly sound profile, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a soft and light feel with a "baritone" sound profile, then the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is the better option. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 53 grams, the Grapefruit switch offers a tarty linear feel. It is described as low-pitched, making it more bass-heavy and mellow in terms of sound.
Ultimately, your decision between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch depends on your preference for the type of switch feel and sound profile you desire. Consider factors such as bottom out force, tactile experience, sound, and typing experience to make an informed choice. Both switches have their unique qualities, so choose the one that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
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