Aflion Carrot vs. Aflion Iceberg

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Aflion Carrot and the Aflion Iceberg. Both switches offer unique features and qualities that make them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Carrot switch is best known for its fun tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring that provides a uniquely bouncy feel. Additionally, this switch offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, adding to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Iceberg switch showcases Aflion's commitment to producing quality switches. Despite being a relatively new switch manufacturer, Aflion has managed to create stellar switches like the Iceberg. This linear switch boasts a satisfying smoothness and a fulfilling feel, thanks to its two-stage spring. While both switches share some similarities, such as being categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', they also have their distinct qualities. 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

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Carrot and the Aflion Iceberg have similar housing materials, with both switches featuring polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Carrot and the Iceberg offer users a similar sound experience and the option to showcase RGB lighting effects.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Carrot and the Iceberg differ in materials. The Carrot utilizes nylon as its bottom housing material, while the Iceberg also features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches that use nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Carrot and the Iceberg provide users with a unique typing experience due to their nylon bottom housing.

Considering how the top and bottom housings impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, users can expect distinct qualities from the Carrot and the Iceberg. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing will have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, with the Carrot's nylon bottom housing creating a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Iceberg's nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the top housing will play a larger role in the sound when a key is released. Both switches' polycarbonate top housing will contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile upon key release.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches require a gentle 37 grams of force to trigger a keystroke and a slightly heavier 45 grams to bottom out. This light actuation and bottom out force make these switches ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. With both switches offering similar results, typists can enjoy extended typing sessions without experiencing fatigue. However, for users who crave a more substantial typing feel, these switches may not provide the desired push force as both have relatively light weights. Users seeking a heavier switch option may need to explore other alternatives outside the Aflion Carrot and Iceberg switches.

Travel distance

Both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the switch travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Consequently, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the Aflion Carrot and Iceberg switches are described as clacky and high-pitched. A clacky switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving it a crisp and percussive quality. The high-pitched characteristic adds to the sharp and crisp sound profile. While both switches share these sound qualities, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also affected by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used. Therefore, you can expect similar results from both the Carrot and Iceberg switches in terms of sound.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Carrot is known for its bouncy and snappy feedback. The long, two-stage spring in the Carrot switch offers a uniquely lively and elastic sensation. The keys have a rebound effect when pressed, providing a lively feel to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg is described as snappy and feathery in feel. Similar to the Carrot switch, the snappy characteristic indicates a highly responsive typing experience, often attributed to longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, the feathery attribute suggests that the Iceberg switch requires minimal exertion from your fingers, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer satisfying tactile feedback, but with slightly different characteristics.

In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot and Iceberg switches exhibit distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch provides a uniquely bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, while the Iceberg switch offers a satisfying smoothness and a snappy, feathery feel. Although both switches share some similarities in sound and feel, they do differ in their specific characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, if you're looking for a unique and bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot switches would be the ideal choice for you. These switches have a light bottom out force of 45 grams and offer a lively and rebounding feel when pressed. The Carrot switches are best known for their two-stage spring, providing users with a satisfying tactile feedback.

On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and fulfilling typing experience with a light actuation force, the Aflion Iceberg switches would be the better option. The Iceberg switches also have a bottom out force of 45 grams, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. They are known for their snappy response and feathery feel, reducing finger fatigue and strain during long usage periods.

Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your preference for tactile feedback and typing style. If you prioritize a bouncy and unique tactile experience with a firm sound profile, go for the Carrot switches. However, if you prefer a smooth and responsive typing experience with a light actuation force, the Iceberg switches would be the better option. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that best suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more