Aflion Carrot vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Carrot and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, both of which fall under the tactile switch category. The Carrot switch is praised for its unique bouncy tactile experience thanks to its long two-stage spring, while also offering a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Lavender Purple Pro switches from Akko provide a higher-pitched sound profile along with a satisfying tactile bump, promising a delightful typing experience. Although both switches offer their own set of appealing features, such as being bouncy and snappy, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting effects. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, these switches will provide similar results due to their shared polycarbonate housing material.
However, where these switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Carrot utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile.
When both top and bottom housings are different for a switch, the qualities of each housing material will impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing material will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Aflion Carrot and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, their shared polycarbonate top housing ensures a consistent sound profile, while their differing nylon bottom housings offer unique tactile experiences.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Carrot is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is slightly heavier. The Carrot requires 37 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a light switch overall. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, falling into the medium-light category. The difference in force levels between the two switches can lead to varying typing experiences, with the Carrot offering a lighter touch for effortless typing, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Carrot offering a slightly deeper keypress compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Carrot. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 is best described as having a clacky and marbly sound profile, offering sharp and snappy sounds with a resonant, high-pitched quality. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is noted for its higher-pitched sound profile that provides a satisfying tactile bump. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, with the Carrot switch leaning towards a crisper sound and the Lavender Purple Pro switch delivering a more delightful typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch stands out for its bouncy and snappy feedback, providing a lively and responsive typing sensation. Additionally, it has a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is known for being accented, bouncy, and snappy, offering a medium tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Furthermore, the Lavender Purple Pro switch is polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while both the Aflion Carrot and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, they ultimately cater to different preferences in typing experiences. The Carrot switch provides a bouncy and crisp sound with a lively feel, while the Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile with an accented tactile feedback. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, either switch could provide a delightful and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider the specific aspects of each switch that align with your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy and firm tactile experience with a mid-pitched sound profile, the Carrot switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and appreciate a satisfying tactile bump with a higher-pitched sound profile, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch might be more suited to your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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