Aflion Carrot vs. HMX Gravel

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, and the HMX Gravel, a linear switch, often comes down to personal preference, as each offers distinct advantages for different types of users. The Carrot is celebrated for its bouncy tactile feedback, characterized by a long two-stage spring that provides a lively typing experience along with a mid-pitched, firm sound profile that adds a fun auditory element to each keystroke. This makes it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a bit of feedback while typing or gaming, as it enhances the sensation of each keypress. In contrast, the HMX Gravel excels in delivering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing feel, with a medium-light actuation force that allows for a responsive and effortless experience, perfect for users who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing. The Gravel's creamy texture and light touch cater primarily to users looking for a more streamlined and quieter experience. 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

HMX Gravel Linear

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Carrot and HMX Gravel switches share a commonality in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, leading to a similar acoustic experience when it comes to their sound profiles. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Both switches benefit aesthetically as well, since their clear housings allow RGB lighting to shine through effectively. This compatibility with RGB lighting enhances the overall customization and visual appeal of keyboard setups that incorporate these switches. Therefore, users can expect to achieve a similar bright sound characteristic when switching between the Carrot and Gravel models.

Diverging from their top housings, the Carrot and Gravel switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which significantly influences the acoustic experience. Nylon, being a softer plastic, provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to its polycarbonate counterpart. This means that while both switches will have a clear and resonant sound when keys are released, they will produce a more subdued and rounder sound when a key is bottomed out due to the nylon's inherent sound-absorbing qualities. As a result, the combination of the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in both switches creates a harmonious balance where the sound characteristics are beautifully split between the two housings.

Ultimately, the distinct materials used for the bottom housing of the Carrot and Gravel switches provide a unique blend of auditory experiences to users. The effective pairing of a rigid polycarbonate top housing, which enhances clarity, with a sound-dampening nylon bottom housing, leads to a composite sound profile that combines both brightness and warmth. This synergy allows users to enjoy a tailored typing experience, whether they favor a lively sound when releasing keys or a muted sensation upon key bottoming out. Thus, despite their similarities in top housing, the differences in bottom housing contribute to a multifaceted auditory performance that can appeal to varying preferences in typing dynamics.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Carrot features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gravel's actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to press and better suited for those who prefer a lighter feel for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces are also distinct, with the Carrot bottoming out at 45 grams while the Gravel has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches are categorized as light, the Gravel provides a more substantial feel at the bottom of the keystroke. Users seeking a lighter overall typing experience might gravitate towards the Aflion Carrot due to its lower actuation force, whereas those who prefer a heavier typing experience may opt for the HMX Gravel for its greater bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Aflion Carrot tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Gravel linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference means that the Carrot provides a deeper actuation, which some users may find preferable for a more tactile experience while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Gravel's 3.5 mm travel distance aligns with the current trend favoring shorter switches, offering quicker response times that many gamers seek. As such, if responsiveness is the primary concern, the Gravel would be the better choice. However, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress might lean towards the Carrot for its added depth. Overall, the Carrot is the longer switch, while the Gravel is the shorter option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Aflion Carrot and the HMX Gravel linear switches share a clacky quality, characterized by a sharp and snappy auditory response that is crisp, bright, and percussive. Users can expect a mid-pitched and firm sound from the Carrot, while the Gravel maintains that same clacky essence. However, the Carrot has a specific high-pitched tone that might appeal to users who prefer brighter sound profiles over deeper, bass-heavy ones. Though both switches can produce a similar auditory experience, the overall sound will ultimately depend on the keyboard's build and keycap choice.

In terms of feel, the Carrot tactile switch stands out with its uniquely bouncy and snappy feedback, bolstered by a long, two-stage spring design that creates a lively typing sensation. This feature gives it a stepped feel, making the actuation point noticeable without being overly pronounced. On the other hand, the Gravel offers a medium-light actuation force that leans toward a smoother, creamy sensation, resulting in an effortless typing experience. Both switches provide a bouncy feel that enhances responsiveness; however, the Gravel's creamy smoothness creates a distinctly different typing dynamic compared to the more spring-like and snappy nature of the Carrot.

In conclusion, while the Aflion Carrot and HMX Gravel switches share some similarities in their clacky sound profile and bouncy tactile quality, they diverge significantly in their overall feel and response. The Carrot switch offers a more tactile and lively experience characterized by its firm sound and clear actuation, whereas the Gravel focuses on smoothness and comfort with its lighter touch and creamy sensation. Choosing between the two will largely depend on whether you prioritize a sharp, tactile feedback or a smooth, effortless typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when selecting between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, your personal preferences and intended use will play a significant role. If you enjoy a more dynamic and engaging typing experience, the Carrot switch might be the right choice for you. Its lighter bottom-out force, combined with a bouncy tactile feel and a mid-pitched clacky sound profile, makes it ideal for those who appreciate feedback during their keystrokes. Additionally, if you often type for extended periods, the Carrot's light actuation can ease finger fatigue, making it suitable for intensive gaming or productivity tasks. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a refined feel while typing, the Gravel switch is likely more aligned with your needs. The Gravel's creamy and buttery texture, paired with the slightly heavier actuation force, will provide a satisfying response without the bounce of tactile feedback, making it a stellar option for focused typing sessions where a seamless experience is key. Ultimately, whether you prefer the lively engagement of the Carrot or the smooth elegance of the Gravel, your choice will cater to how you express your creativity and efficiency through your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more