Aflion Carrot vs. Gateron Ink Yellow

Overview

Introduction:

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are various options available to suit different preferences and typing styles. Two popular switches that stand out in the crowd are the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Ink Yellow. While both switches offer exceptional performance, they differ in key aspects such as tactile feedback and travel distance. The Aflion Carrot is a tactile switch, renowned for its bouncy tactile experience and mid-pitched, firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow is a linear switch that provides a typing experience between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, thanks to its shorter travel distance. It offers a smooth and clacky feel. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision about the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Aflion Carrot Tactile

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Ink Yellow have different materials used for their top housing. The Carrot features a polycarbonate top housing, which gives it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, results in a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the clear housing of the Carrot makes it visually appealing, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Ink Yellow has a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. It is described as clacky, offering a satisfying thin and higher-tone sound. While the two materials differ, they both provide distinct sound profiles, making each switch unique in its own way.

When it comes to the bottom housing, the Carrot utilizes a nylon material. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow has a proprietary INK blend bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This leads to a consistent sound profile throughout the switch, with a pointed and high-pitched yet not overly sharp quality. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience but with slightly different tonal characteristics.

The top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in its overall sound and feel. When pressing down on the switch, you will feel the impact of the bottom housing, which affects the bottom-out sound and the overall feel of the switch. However, when you release a key, the top housing becomes more influential in determining the sound produced. While the Carrot and the Ink Yellow have different top and bottom housings, they both offer unique experiences based on how the materials interact with each other. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate and softer nylon combination of the Carrot or the consistent proprietary INK blend of the Ink Yellow, both switches provide distinct sound profiles for a satisfying typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, we can see some distinct differences. The Carrot switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a gentle and effortless keystroke experience. In contrast, the Ink Yellow switch requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and has a bottom out force of 67 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing feel.

For those who prefer a lightweight switch, the Carrot would be the ideal choice as its lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow switch would be more suitable for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel, providing a satisfying typing experience with its heavier forces.

It is important to consider the weight of the switches based on personal preferences and the intended usage. Those who bring their keyboards to work or engage in extended gaming sessions may find the Carrot switch advantageous due to its lighter weight. However, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience may find satisfaction in the Ink Yellow switch's heavier actuation and bottom out forces.

Overall, the Carrot switch can offer a lighter and effortless typing experience, while the Ink Yellow switch provides a medium-heavy and more tactile feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and usage scenarios, ensuring that users can find the perfect fit for their typing needs.

Travel distance

When it comes to the travel distance, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch provide different experiences. The Carrot has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow offers a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, often prefer shorter travel distances. In this case, the Ink Yellow would be the favorable choice for them. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key, the longer travel distance of the Carrot may be more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prioritizes responsiveness or a deeper tactile experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is best known for its firm and mid-pitched sound profile. It offers a clacky and marbly sound, which is sharp, crisp, and percussive. This unique sound profile adds to the overall tactile experience offered by the Carrot switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. It produces a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and bright. The sound of the switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, the Carrot switch provides a more distinctive and firm sound, while the Ink Yellow switch offers a neutral and clacky sound.

In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is characterized by its bouncy and snappy feedback. The long, two-stage spring in the Carrot switch provides a uniquely lively and spring-like sensation when typing. The switch is described as being snappy and stepped, which means it has some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The Carrot switch is also feathery, offering a light typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and strain. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch provides a more mild and polished typing experience. It offers a gentle and approachable feel, suitable for most users. The switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in sleek key travel. Overall, the Carrot switch offers a more bouncy and lively feel, while the Ink Yellow switch provides a mild and polished typing experience.

Based on the available information, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch has a firm and mid-pitched sound profile that is clacky and marbly, adding to its unique tactile experience. It also provides a bouncy and snappy feel, with a light and feathery touch. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow switch has a neutral sound profile that is clacky, offering a more approachable sound. It provides a mild and polished feel, with a smoother and refined typing experience. Depending on the user's preferences, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a fun and bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is a great choice. It offers a unique two-stage spring that provides a lively and responsive typing experience. Additionally, the Carrot switch is described as clacky and marbly, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.

On the other hand, if you prefer a typing experience between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is a good option. It has a moderate-heavy bottom out force and is characterized by a shorter travel. The Ink Yellow switch offers a pleasant smoothness and clackiness, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. It is described as neutral and clacky in terms of sound.

In terms of feel, the Carrot switch is known for being bouncy, snappy, and providing a subtle resistance. This switch is feathery and has a gentle typing feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Ink Yellow switch, on the other hand, offers a mild and polished typing experience. It provides a more gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a bouncy and tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile, the Carrot switch is recommended. However, if you prefer a typing experience that falls between a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, with a smooth and polished feel, the Ink Yellow switch would be a suitable choice. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force to make the decision that best suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more