Aflion Carrot vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch is crucial as it greatly impacts the overall typing experience. Two popular options in the market are the Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, and the KTT Laurel, a linear switch. The Carrot is best known for its unique bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. It also offers a satisfyingly firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Laurel is celebrated for its medium-light linear switch design, striking the perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, it provides a smooth typing experience. Additionally, it produces a subtly low-pitched sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Laurel have distinct housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Carrot's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, emphasizing higher-pitched tones. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a more vibrant and resonant typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Laurel's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a different auditory satisfaction. While the two differ in terms of sound, both materials provide pleasing qualities, making your typing experience enjoyable.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Carrot utilizes a nylon material that enhances the switch's overall sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a deeper and fuller typing sound. This creates a duller and rounder tone compared to the Carrot's sharper top housing. Similarly, the Laurel's POM bottom housing enhances the switch's sound with its unique and pleasant characteristics. Despite the difference in material, both the nylon and POM bottom housings deliver a deeper sound, perfect for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the Aflion Carrot and KTT Laurel differ in material, they still contribute to the overall typing experience in similar ways. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's qualities become apparent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether it's the absorbing nature of nylon or the distinctive properties of POM, both housings contribute to a more satisfying typing experience. Conversely, the sound you hear when releasing a key is more impacted by the top housing material. In this respect, the Carrot's polycarbonate and the Laurel's POM offer contrasting sound profiles, allowing you to choose the one that aligns with your preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in distinguishing them. The Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Laurel's 43 grams, making it slightly easier to trigger keystrokes. In terms of bottom out force, the Carrot requires 45 grams of force, while the Laurel calls for 50 grams, making the latter a heavier option.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Carrot would be a great choice as it requires less force to activate and bottom out. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who spend long hours typing or engage in marathon gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Laurel satisfies the preference for a more substantial push feel, providing a slightly heavier force for a typing experience that feels more substantial.
While the forces differ between the two switches, it is important to note that both options fall within the light force range. Therefore, for users seeking similar results, either switch would provide a comparable lightweight typing experience. The decision ultimately rests on personal preference, with some users opting for the slightly lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Carrot, while others may prefer the additional force and feedback offered by the Laurel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is more common, while 3.5 mm is on the shallower side. However, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Carrot with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable option. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and may prefer the Laurel with its slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feeling when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired 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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a unique and lively experience. It produces a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, described as clacky and marbly, which gives it a crisp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch is known for its subtly low-pitched sound profile. It offers a more mellow and bass-heavy tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers various qualities. It is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The keys have a lively feel, giving a rebound when pressed. Additionally, it is known for being snappy due to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. The Carrot switch can also be considered stepped, which means it has two stages in its tactile feedback. It provides a mild bump and allows for some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Furthermore, the Carrot switch is described as feathery, meaning it has an exceptionally light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Lastly, it is noted to have a subtle resistance and a gentle typing feel, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch shares the same snappy feel as the Carrot switch, which can be attributed to longer or dual-staged springs, enhancing the typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch provides a bouncy and lively tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, while the Laurel switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound and a snappy feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. It is important to consider factors such as personal preference, typing style, and the desired typing experience when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun and tactile typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its unique two-stage spring provides a lively and responsive sensation, while its mid-pitched and firm sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and linear typing experience, the KTT Laurel linear switch would be a great option. With its medium-light bottom out force and full POM housing, it strikes the perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, the Laurel switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile. Overall, the Carrot switch is best suited for those who enjoy a tactile and bouncy typing experience, while the Laurel switch is tailored to those who prefer a smooth and linear feel.
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