Aflion Carrot vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the Keygeek Keylin stand out as distinct options, each catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Carrot is a tactile switch, celebrated for its fun, bouncy tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience. With a long, two-stage spring, it provides a unique tactile feel paired with a mid-pitched, firm sound profile, making it an exciting choice for those who enjoy a pronounced physical response while typing. On the other hand, the Keylin is a linear switch that excels in delivering a smooth, premium typing experience, thanks to its innovative molds from Keygeek. This switch is designed for users who prioritize fluid keystrokes and rich acoustics, making it ideal for both typists and gamers who prefer a quieter option without the tactile bump. While the Carrot caters to those who thrive on tactile feedback, the Keylin appeals to those seeking seamless performance. 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
38g
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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Aflion Carrot and the Keygeek Keylin, the most notable difference lies in their top housing materials. The Carrot features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which contributes to a clear and resonant tone ideal for enhancing the illumination of RGB lighting. In contrast, the Keylin opts for a nylon top housing, which is a traditional choice known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, while the Carrot's polycarbonate top promotes brightness and clarity, the Keylin's nylon top offers a more subdued and rich auditory experience.
Interestingly, both the Aflion Carrot and the Keygeek Keylin utilize nylon for their bottom housing, making this aspect a point of similarity between the two switches. As previously mentioned, nylon is cherished for its ability to absorb sound, contributing to a fuller sound profile regardless of which switch features it. Consequently, when you press down on either switch, you will encounter the dampened auditory sensation that nylon is known for. This common material in the bottom housing means that, regardless of the differences in the top housing, the fundamental typing experience when bottoming out will share a similar warmth and depth between the two models.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch creates distinct sound profiles that interact uniquely during use. The Carrot's polycarbonate top housing allows for a clearer release sound, elevating the crispness while typing, which can be especially noticeable in gaming scenarios where rapid key presses are common. In contrast, the Keylin's nylon top emphasizes a more rounded and softer sound during key release, catering to users who prefer a warmer typing experience. By understanding how the differing top and matching bottom housings of both switches function together, one can appreciate the variance in sound profiles that affect both the bottoming out and releasing of keys, ultimately influencing personal preference in keyboard experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, both exhibit similar characteristics in terms of overall weight, although the Carrot is slightly lighter. The Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, whereas the Keylin features an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that while both switches are considered light, the Carrot offers a very marginally lower actuation and bottom out force, making it a more comfortable choice for users who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, those who enjoy a bit more resistance during key presses might gravitate towards the Keylin, which has a slightly heavier feel. Ultimately, the distinct force specifications of each switch can help users choose the one that best fits their typing preferences, with the Carrot being the lighter option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, the Carrot offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Keylin has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Aflion Carrot provides a more pronounced depth when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a more tactile and substantial feel while typing. In contrast, the Keylin's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance may be favored by gamers or those seeking a quicker response time, as it allows for faster key actuation. If you're looking for a switch that offers more of a hearty depth, the Aflion Carrot would be the better option, while the Keygeek Keylin is ideal for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their typing experience.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 produces a mid-pitched, firm sound profile characterized by a clacky and high-pitched quality. This results in a keyboard experience that is sharp, crisp, and bright when typing, making it an engaging auditory experience. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is designed to deliver rich acoustics; however, the specifics of its sound profile remain undefined. Generally speaking, linear switches tend to be quieter, so while the Carrot may provide an elevated auditory response, Keylin may offer a more subdued, smoother experience, but without further information, it's difficult to compare directly.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot excels with its lively and bouncy tactile feedback, attributed to its long, two-stage spring design. This feature promotes a snappy and responsive typing experience, giving users the sensation of a unique rebound when keys are pressed. Additionally, its stepped characteristics create a distinctive tactile experience that delivers a mild yet noticeable bump during keystrokes. On the other hand, the tactile feedback of the Keylin linear switch is not explicitly detailed, but linear switches are generally known for their smooth, uninterrupted travel and often lack the tactile response of the Carrot. Without more specific information about the Keylin's feel, it's challenging to ascertain how it would compare in terms of engagement during typing.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch cater to different preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboards. The Carrot is ideal for users who enjoy a lively and engaging tactile experience accompanied by a bright, clacky sound. In contrast, the Keylin linear switch seems to focus more on delivering a smooth, premium typing experience, though its sound and feel qualities are less clearly defined. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on whether you prefer a tactile, bouncy feel with pronounced auditory feedback or a more subdued and fluid typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and what you value in your keyboard experience. If you enjoy a playful and engaging typing style, the Carrot switch is an excellent option, thanks to its bouncy, snappy feel and unique two-stage spring design. Its lighter actuation force of 45 grams makes it particularly appealing for extensive typing or gaming sessions, offering less finger fatigue and a lively, responsive touch. Furthermore, the clacky, high-pitched sound profile adds a fun auditory element, perfect if you appreciate a more distinct auditory feedback while you type. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more understated experience, the Keylin linear switch would be the better choice. With a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams, it provides a more consistent feel without tactile bumps, making it ideal for users who prioritize a seamless typing experience. The premium craftsmanship and rich acoustics of the Keylin ensure a refined touch that can be especially beneficial for long hours of work or gaming, where you might want to minimize auditory distractions. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize a tactile feedback and playful sound with the Carrot or a smooth, subtle performance with the Keylin.
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