Aflion Carrot vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a tactile mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Carrot and the Dareu Holly. The Carrot switch is known for its bouncy tactile experience provided by a long two-stage spring, accompanied by a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch offers a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, creating a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a medium 50g actuation force. While the Carrot switch may appeal to those who enjoy a bouncy and firm typing feel, the Holly switch caters to users seeking a more balanced and distinct sound profile. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Dareu Holly both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound overall, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for the passage of light to create a visually appealing effect. Overall, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a consistent sound profile and aesthetic appeal.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Aflion Carrot and the Dareu Holly feature nylon housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that can be pleasing to users looking for a deeper typing experience. By incorporating nylon bottom housings, both switches offer a unique sound profile that complements the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing, providing a well-rounded typing experience.
Overall, while both the Aflion Carrot and the Dareu Holly share similar housing materials in terms of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, the placement of these materials plays a crucial role in the typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing influences the sound profile when letting go of a key, while the nylon bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. This split in housing materials allows for a dynamic typing experience that combines the best qualities of both materials, resulting in a satisfying and well-rounded switch performance.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. The Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Holly's heavier 50 grams. The bottom out force for the Carrot is also lighter at 45 grams, while the Holly's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Carrot, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. On the other hand, the Holly offers a more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation force. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Carrot and the Dareu Holly tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that pressing down on either switch will result in a similar feeling of key travel. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed. Users can expect a tactile response from both switches without any noticeable difference in travel distance. Whether using the Aflion Carrot or the Dareu Holly tactile switch, the typing experience will be familiar and comfortable with a travel distance of 4 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 Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 is known for its clacky and mid-pitched sound profile, offering a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly tactile switch is described as chirpy and clacky, providing a unique combination of sounds that cater to users looking for a balanced typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Carrot leaning towards a firm and bright tone, while the Holly adds a touch of chirpiness to its clacky sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is praised for its bouncy and snappy feedback, thanks to its two-stage spring mechanism that offers a lively typing experience. Users can expect a satisfying rebound when pressing the keys, making typing feel more responsive. On the other hand, information on the Dareu Holly tactile switch's feel is unavailable. While the Carrot switch offers a range of feels including feathery and subtle for a comfortable typing experience, the Holly switch's specific tactile characteristics remain unknown.
Overall, the Aflion Carrot and Dareu Holly tactile switches provide users with unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. With the Carrot offering a bouncy and firm typing experience with a mid-pitched sound profile, and the Holly providing a chirpy and clacky typing experience, users can choose between a more traditional tactile switch feel or opt for a distinctive sound signature. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking an enhanced typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a light, bouncy tactile switch with a firm sound profile and a unique bouncy typing experience, then the Carrot would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force switch with a distinctive sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, catering to users seeking a balanced typing experience, then the Holly might be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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