Aflion Carrot vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct experiences are the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Mannan Pipefish. The Carrot switch stands out as a fun tactile switch, featuring a long, two-stage spring that provides a uniquely bouncy tactile experience. Additionally, it offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch boasts a smooth linear action, accompanied by a lengthened spring and a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. This combination delivers effortless and enjoyable typing, making it ideal for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can better decide on the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Aflion Carrot Tactile

KTT Mannan Pipefish Linear

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$3.53

$3.05 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Mannan Pipefish share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate offers a clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of both switches.

Another common feature between the Carrot and the Pipefish is their nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being a relatively softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic adds a unique depth to the typing experience on both switches.

Despite these similarities, there might be slight differences in the overall sound produced by the Carrot and the Pipefish due to their respective housing combinations. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. These variations might give each switch its distinct sound signature, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a sharper or deeper sound.

Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Mannan Pipefish contribute to enhanced sound profiles. While their polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the nylon bottom housing allows for a deeper and fuller sound experience. These differences ensure that each switch offers a unique auditory sensation, providing users with diverse options to suit their preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 37 grams and bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke and the feeling of pressing all the way down on the keys. So, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience, both switches offer a relatively light force. This lighter weight can be advantageous for individuals who desire longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, neither switch offers a heavier force option.

Travel distance

Both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. It is worth noting that both switches provide a consistent feel and response due to their identical travel distances, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its mid-pitched and firm sound profile. This means that when pressed, the Carrot switch produces a sharp and crisp sound. In comparison, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile, suitable for most purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, depending on the setup, both switches can provide similar sound results.

Moving on to feel, the Aflion Carrot switch is known for its unique bouncy tactile experience. It has a long, two-stage spring that provides users with a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, it is described as snappy, indicating a high level of responsiveness. The Carrot switch also falls under the category of a stepped switch, meaning it has two stages of feedback and a more mild tactile feel. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in an effortless and low-impact typing feel. Furthermore, the Mannan Pipefish switch is referred to as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that enhances the typing experience. Both switches provide different tactile experiences, with the Carrot being bouncy and snappy, while the Mannan Pipefish is easy-to-press and polished.

Taking all the available information into account, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Carrot switch provides a uniquely bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. It is characterized by a snappy and stepped feel. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers effortless and enjoyable typing with its smooth linear action and light actuation force. It has a neutral sound profile and a low-impact typing feel. Depending on the individual's preference for sound and feel, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a fun and unique tactile experience with a bouncy feel, the Aflion Carrot switch would be a great choice. It offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a clacky or marbly sound. Additionally, the Carrot switch provides a snappy and stepped feel, giving you a lively typing experience. However, if you prefer a smooth linear action with minimal resistance, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch would be the better option. It offers an easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate, making it effortless and comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Mannan Pipefish switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches have their unique advantages, so choose based on your preference for tactile or linear action and the type of sound and feel you desire.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

KTT Mannan Pipefish Linear

$3.53

$3.05 per 10

Learn more