Aflion Carrot vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference and typing style, making the Aflion Carrot and HMX Lotus (Heavy) two noteworthy contenders in the market. The Carrot switch is a tactile option that boasts a long, two-stage spring, offering users a uniquely bouncy tactile experience accompanied by a mid-pitched and firm sound profile that adds a playful character to every keystroke. This switch is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy returning tactile feedback, making it ideal for typists who appreciate a more interactive typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) presents a linear switch, characterized by its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and a bright, resonant sound. This creates a smooth, frictionless typing experience that appeals to gamers and fast typists seeking fluid keystrokes without interruptions. While both switches offer an exciting tactile experience, they cater to different preferences—one leaning towards tactile engagement and the other towards linear fluidity. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
When comparing the Aflion Carrot and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), an important distinction arises in their top housing materials. The Carrot utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for its rigidity and ability to produce a sharper, crisper sound profile. This quality enhances the clarity of the auditory feedback when a key is pressed, particularly appealing to users who prefer a more precise typing experience. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) opts for a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer properties of nylon absorb sound, leading to a more muted and rounded acoustic output compared to the Carrot. Thus, while both switches offer unique auditory experiences, they cater to different preferences – one emphasizing clarity and sharpness, while the other focuses on warmth and depth.
Interestingly, the bottom housing of both the Carrot and the Lotus (Heavy) is made of nylon, creating a commonality between the two models. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a similar deep and fuller sound profile in both switches, offering a cohesive auditory experience. Given that both switches share this material for the bottom housing, users can expect a comparable bottom-out sound and feel across both models. In this aspect, the tactile feedback when the switch is fully pressed provides a foundation of consistent performance, regardless of the differences found in the top housings.
Overall, while the Aflion Carrot and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) diverge in their choice of top housing materials, they converge in their bottom housing composition, highlighting a blend of contrasting and complementary characteristics. The polycarbonate top of the Carrot delivers brightness and sharpness, whereas the nylon top of the Lotus (Heavy) fosters a more subdued sound. However, both switches ensure a satisfying tactile experience through their nylon bottom housings, where the qualities of sound and feel meld together. Therefore, users seeking a customized experience can find fulfillment in either option, depending on their sound preference, yet ultimately achieve similar results in the realm of tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Carrot features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a gentler touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) demands a heavier actuation force of 55 grams along with a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to users who favor a more robust and substantial feel when typing. This heavier resistance can enhance the tactile feedback and overall typing experience for individuals who prefer that. Thus, while the Carrot is significantly lighter and ideal for prolonged use, the Lotus offers a more forceful experience, accommodating different preferences in switch feel and pressure resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Carrot features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Lotus (Heavy) follows closely with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This 0.5 mm difference highlights the Carrot's more substantial key travel, which some users may find preferable for a deeper and more tactile typing experience. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Lotus may appeal to those seeking quicker actuation and potentially faster response times, typical of gaming scenarios. In summary, if you value a hearty depth in your keystrokes, the Aflion Carrot is the better choice; however, if responsiveness is your priority, then the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is the way to go.
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 (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) 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
When it comes to sound, both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch exhibit a clacky profile, providing a sharp, crisp, and bright auditory experience on actuation. The Carrot, with its mid-pitched sound, offers a firm resonance that contributes to a more assertive typing experience. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) features a bright and resonant quality, which complements its medium-heavy actuation force. Though their overall clackiness aligns, the slight variations in pitch and firmness create distinct sound experiences that can influence a user's preference.
In terms of feel, the Carrot switch stands out with its long, two-stage spring that produces a bouncy and snappy typing experience. This tactile design ensures users feel a clear distinction between pre-travel and post-travel, characteristic of stepped switches, giving it a lively, responsive quality. On the other hand, the Lotus (Heavy) also delivers a bouncy sensation, but with a silky smoothness that enhances the overall typing fluidity. The combination of elasticity and a heavier actuation force makes the Lotus (Heavy) more suited for users who enjoy a robust feel while typing. Both switches offer unique yet enjoyable tactile feedback, appealing to different user preferences.
In summary, the Aflion Carrot and HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences while sharing some common characteristics. While both create a clack sound that is bright and lively, the Carrot features a mid-pitched tone, while the Lotus (Heavy) shines with its resonant quality. In terms of feel, the Carrot excels in providing a bouncy and snappy experience with a stepped tactile feel, while the Lotus (Heavy) favors smoothness alongside a noticeable weight. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will largely depend on whether one prioritizes a unique tactile experience or a silky, bouncy typing feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a fun, bouncy typing experience with lighter keystrokes, the Carrot switch is a fantastic choice, especially for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where minimal finger fatigue is essential. Its mid-pitched, clacky sound profile adds an engaging auditory component, perfect for those who appreciate a lively typing atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust feel with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Lotus (Heavy) is ideal. Its silky smoothness combined with a bright, clacky sound offers a delightful keystroke that can enhance your typing efficiency and enjoyment. The heavier actuation can be preferred for users who tend to make more accidental presses and need tactile reassurance in their typing experience. In essence, choose the Carrot for a lighter, more playful experience, and the Lotus (Heavy) if you seek a firmer, smoother responsiveness.
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