Aflion Carrot vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Jupiter Brown, also a tactile switch. The Carrot switch stands out for its unique bouncy tactile experience thanks to its long, two-stage spring, while also providing a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown switches offer a more traditional tactile feel with a medium-heavy weight, perfect for those who prefer a classic keystroke experience. Both switches feature high-precision molds and enhanced backlight effects for a reliable and visually appealing performance. However, to truly determine the best switch for your needs, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Standard
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Jupiter Brown both feature polycarbonate for the top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows for light to shine through. Despite both switches using polycarbonate for the top housing, the differences in their design and construction may still result in variations in sound and feel.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Carrot is made of nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder, duller sound. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Brown also utilizes nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The differences in the bottom housing materials between the two switches may lead to slight variations in the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are split between the two components. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. While both the Carrot and the Jupiter Brown share similarities in their choice of housing materials, the slight differences in their design and construction may result in unique typing experiences for users.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Carrot is the lighter option while the Jupiter Brown is the heavier option. The Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter and more gentle typing experience. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel with a more substantial typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Carrot would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more forceful typing feedback may favor the Jupiter Brown for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and overall typing experience when using either of these switches. The 4 mm travel distance on both switches ensures a consistent tactile feedback and a satisfying keystroke, making them ideal choices for individuals who prefer a medium travel distance. Overall, the Aflion Carrot and Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switches offer identical travel distances, resulting in a comparable typing experience for users.
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 Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 marbly sound profiles, offering a sharp and crisp sound that can be compared to tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch's sound profile is not specified, so it is presumed to offer a more traditional sound. Depending on personal preference and the keyboard setup, the Carrot switch may provide a more unique and lively auditory experience compared to the Jupiter Brown.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot switch is described as bouncy, snappy, and slightly feathery, providing users with a spring-like feedback sensation, super responsive keystrokes, and a light typing feel. Conversely, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch is described as mild, polished, and also stepped, offering a more gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. Both switches have aspects of being stepped, providing a subtle two-stage tactile feel rather than a single bump throughout the keystroke. Depending on personal preference for key feel, users may find the bouncier and snappier experience of the Carrot switch more engaging, while others may prefer the smoother and more refined feel of the Jupiter Brown.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot and Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switches offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch provides a unique bouncy and snappy typing experience with a sharp and clacky sound, while the Jupiter Brown switch offers a more traditional and polished feel with a mild and stepped tactile profile. Depending on personal preference for sound and key feel, users can choose between the energetic and lively experience of the Carrot switch or the smoother and refined feel of the Jupiter Brown, knowing that both switches offer reliable performance and aesthetic appeal. Ultimately, both switches have their own merits, and users can expect a high-quality typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, consider the characteristics of each switch carefully. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy and snappy tactile experience with a unique sound profile, the Carrot switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more traditional keystroke feel with a polished and mild typing experience, the Jupiter Brown switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall keyboard experience.
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