Aflion Carrot vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the HMX Lotus, there are distinct differences in their tactile feedback and sound profiles. The Aflion Carrot is a tactile switch known for its bouncy tactile experience provided by its unique two-stage spring, giving it a satisfying mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus is a linear switch with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, offering users a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. While the Carrot is categorized as clacky, marbly, high-pitched, bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, subtle, the Lotus's category remains unspecified. Depending on personal preferences, users may choose the Carrot for its tactile feedback or the Lotus for its smooth linear feel. However, let's delve 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the HMX Lotus, one key difference is seen in the top housing material used. The Carrot utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Lotus features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softness and sound absorption properties. This contrast in sound profiles can make a noticeable difference in the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Carrot and the Lotus utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the different top housing materials used, the similarity in the bottom housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent sound profile when typing on both the Aflion Carrot and the HMX Lotus.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Aflion Carrot and the HMX Lotus plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience. While the use of polycarbonate in the Carrot's top housing creates a more resonant and clear sound profile, the nylon top housing of the Lotus offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent deep and full sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and fuller sound, the housing materials of these switches cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it is clear that both switches are on the lighter side in terms of force required. The Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Lotus's 45 grams, making it slightly easier to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Carrot's bottom out force of 45 grams is lighter than the Lotus's 50 grams. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, while the Carrot is slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, users can expect similar results in terms of force required for key presses with either switch.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Carrot offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Lotus provides a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Carrot being slightly longer than the Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 switch is known for its unique clacky and marbly sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound with a resonant, high-pitched quality. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus switch is described as having a bright and resonant sound, providing a different auditory experience compared to the Carrot. Both switches offer a pleasant sound profile, albeit with different characteristics, so your choice will depend on your personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Carrot is best known for its bouncy and snappy tactile feedback, thanks to its long, two-stage spring design. This switch offers a lively and responsive typing experience, which can be enjoyable for those who prefer a more dynamic feel when typing. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus switch is described as providing a super bouncy feeling with its medium weight and bright sound profile, offering a different tactile sensation compared to the Carrot. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, so choosing between them will depend on your preference for a specific type of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot and HMX Lotus switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Carrot provides a unique bouncy tactile experience with a clacky and marbly sound profile, the Lotus offers a super bouncy feeling with a bright and resonant sound. Both switches have their strengths and can provide an enjoyable typing experience, so consider your preferences for sound and feel when selecting between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches are high-quality options that will likely provide similar levels of satisfaction depending on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a fun and bouncy tactile switch with a light bottom out force of 45 grams, opt for the Carrot. This switch offers a unique two-stage spring mechanism that provides a bouncy tactile experience and a firm sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a super bouncy feeling with a medium weight of 50 grams and a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of feel, sound, and overall typing experience. Consider your typing needs and preferences to determine which switch is the best fit for you.
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