Aflion Carrot vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, both the Aflion Carrot and the HMX Hibiscus offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Aflion Carrot is celebrated for its fun, tactile feedback, thanks to its long, two-stage spring that provides a uniquely bouncy tactile sensation, making it ideal for typists who enjoy a pronounced and engaging keystroke. This switch produces a mid-pitched, firm sound profile that's categorized as clacky and snappy, appealing to gamers and typists alike who appreciate auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus emphasizes a smooth and effortless typing experience, with an ultra-light actuation force that allows for quick, precise keystrokes. Users of the Hibiscus can enjoy a satisfyingly clacky, poppy sound signature, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter touch and a crisp auditory response. While both switches offer their own unique advantages, exploring their features more deeply will help you determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the HMX Hibiscus feature distinct housing materials in their top constructions, which significantly influence the sound profiles they produce during use. The Carrot utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer composition, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and clearer sound. This is beneficial for users who prefer a brighter auditory experience, especially when using RGB lighting, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal by allowing light to penetrate. In contrast, the Hibiscus employs a nylon top housing, a material celebrated for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience that may appeal to users who appreciate a more subdued typing sound.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Carrot and Hibiscus use nylon, bringing shared characteristics that influence their overall sound and feel. This commonality means that both switches deliver a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing, as the nylon’s properties effectively absorb sound vibrations. Here, the impact on the bottom-out sound and overall feel is consistent across both models. However, while the bottom housing contributes similarly to the overall auditory response, the differences in the top housing materials create distinct experiences based on how each switch sounds during key release, further showcasing the contrast between a high-pitched response and a more rounded one.
In summary, while the Aflion Carrot and HMX Hibiscus share the same nylon material in their bottom housings, their top housing materials diverge significantly, leading to differing sound profiles that cater to various preferences. The Carrot's polycarbonate enhances brightness and clarity, ideal for users who enjoy a vibrant typing experience, while the Hibiscus's nylon top lends itself to a more subdued, full-bodied sound. Consequently, the switches will provide unique auditory characteristics based on their respective top materials, demonstrating how the combination of different plastics can shape the experience of mechanical switch users. If one preferred a balance between brightness from polycarbonate and the deep sound from nylon, they might explore hybrid switch designs that integrate the strengths of both materials.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch both offer distinct typing experiences due to their respective actuation and bottom out forces. The Carrot features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option that suits those who prefer less resistance for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Hibiscus switch, while also classified as light, has a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, providing a firmer push feel. This difference in force results in a more substantial typing experience for users who appreciate a bit more resistance. While both switches are designed to minimize fatigue during extended use, the Carrot is the lighter choice overall, appealing to typists seeking ease and comfort, whereas the Hibiscus may cater to those desiring a stronger tactile sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, it is clear that the Carrot has a longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Hibiscus measures 3.5 mm. This difference of 0.5 mm may appear small, but it can significantly impact the typing experience. Gamers often gravitate towards the Hibiscus due to its shorter travel distance, which allows for quicker actuation and faster response times, ideal for rapid key presses. On the other hand, the Carrot's longer travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback, providing a feeling of depth and reassurance with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference regarding response time versus the satisfaction of a deeper engagement with the switch.
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 HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Aflion Carrot and HMX Hibiscus switches, both exhibit a clacky and high-pitched tone, characterized by a sharp and snappy quality that is crisp, bright, and percussive. This shared characteristic ensures that regardless of which switch you choose, you'll experience a lively auditory feedback that many enthusiasts find desirable. However, it is important to note that the overall sound experience can still be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Carrot switch offers a fun and bouncy tactile feedback, thanks to its long, two-stage spring that delivers a snappy and stepped sensation. This results in a lively typing experience that many users appreciate. It combines an elastic rebound with a unique tactile bump, creating a delightful interaction with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Hibiscus switch also provides a bouncy feel but emphasizes its ultra-light actuation force, resulting in a feathery touch that promotes comfort during long typing sessions. This makes the Hibiscus particularly appealing for those needing to reduce finger fatigue during extended use.
In summary, both the Aflion Carrot and HMX Hibiscus switches present engaging qualities that would appeal to different user preferences. While they share similarities in sound, like the clacky and high-pitched profile, they diverge in their tactile experiences. The Carrot is more responsive and offers a pronounced tactile feedback, while the Hibiscus prioritizes a lighter, more comfortable feel with less exertion required. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and the primary qualities you value in a mechanical keyboard switch, as both options promise to elevate your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile, bouncy experience with a distinct two-stage spring that enhances feedback, the Carrot switch is an excellent choice. Its lighter actuation and high-pitched, clacky sound profile make it ideal for those who appreciate a lively and responsive typing sensation, as well as an engaging auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a plush typing feel, the Hibiscus switch will likely suit you better. Its subtlety and refined sound offer a satisfying, almost luxurious experience that is perfect for prolonged typing sessions, whether you're gaming, studying, or working. In essence, choose the Carrot for a crisp and energetic feel, and opt for the Hibiscus when you seek a silky, seamless interaction with your keyboard.
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