Aflion Carrot vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between tactile and linear options. The Aflion Carrot switch stands out with its unique two-stage spring mechanism that provides a playful and bouncy tactile feedback, making each keystroke feel lively and engaging. Its mid-pitched, firm sound profile adds a gratifying audible layer to the typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feel while typing. On the other hand, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 offers a smooth, linear experience that prioritizes fluidity and comfort over tactile feedback. With its carefully engineered design, this switch delivers a delightfully light touch coupled with a solid bottom-out feel, perfect for users who prefer a seamless and noise-minimal typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, with the Carrot appealing to those who enjoy tactile sensations and auditory feedback, while the Matcha Latte V2 is ideal for tactile purists seeking unrivaled smoothness. 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

Aflion Carrot Tactile

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$3.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Carrot and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches feature notable differences in their top housing materials, which ultimately affect their acoustic profiles. The Carrot utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, known for its stiffer composition that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This material is particularly advantageous for showcasing RGB backlighting due to its translucency, making it an appealing choice for users who value aesthetics alongside audio performance. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 opts for POK (polyketone), a material recognized for its exceptional smoothness and durability. While POK may not provide the same level of translucence that polycarbonate does, it contributes to a sound profile that is described as smooth and clacky, highlighting its own unique auditory characteristics.

Despite their differences in top housing materials, both the Carrot and Matcha Latte V2 utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This commonality means that both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials like polycarbonate or POK. Consequently, users can expect a rich, round sound when bottoming out on either switch, as both incorporate similar sound-absorbing properties in their construction. This consistency between the bottom housings aligns the auditory experiences of the two switches, making their overall sound profiles complement each other despite the contrasting materials in their upper sections.

When evaluating the combined performance of both the Aflion Carrot and Huano Matcha Latte V2, it's essential to consider how their respective top and bottom housing materials interact. The polycarbonate top housing of the Carrot enhances brightness and clarity, while the nylon bottom housing ensures a fuller, more resonant sound upon bottoming out. Conversely, the Matcha Latte V2’s POK top housing contributes to a softer mid-range with its smooth character, complemented by the deeper sounds produced from its nylon bottom. Thus, while their top housings yield different auditory outcomes and aesthetic presentations, the similarities in the bottom housings create a shared basis for achieving satisfying typing experiences. This interplay effectively allows users to enjoy rich sounds and responsive feedback across both switches, regardless of the nuances brought about by the top materials.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation forces. The Carrot switch has a light actuation force of 37 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial push feel when they type. Regarding bottom out forces, the Carrot switch has a measurable force of 45 grams, while the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 remains unknown. This discrepancy means the Carrot switch will provide a consistent tactile experience, while the Matcha Latte V2's bottom out experience cannot be accurately evaluated without the necessary data. Overall, the Carrot switch is the lighter option, while the Matcha Latte V2 is heavier, catering to different preferences among typists and gamers.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, there is a notable difference to consider. The Aflion Carrot features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and provides a deeper actuation that some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. In contrast, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, aligning with the trend towards quicker responses, especially favored by gamers. This shorter distance allows for faster actuation, appealing to those looking for enhanced responsiveness. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch that offers a hearty depth, the Carrot would be the better choice, while the Matcha Latte V2 caters to those who favor a more immediate feel. Thus, the Carrot is the longer travel option at 4 mm, while the Matcha Latte V2 is the shorter, sitting at 3.6 mm.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is characterized by a high-pitched and clacky profile, producing a bright, crisp, and snappy sound upon actuation. This auditory feedback can evoke a sense of satisfaction for those who appreciate a pronounced sound during typing. In contrast, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch does not have a specified sound profile, which may imply a quieter performance overall, typical of linear switches that tend to offer a more muted sound. Users who prioritize a less intrusive auditory experience may find the Matcha Latte V2 appealing, but it is crucial to remember that sound can be influenced by the keyboard’s construction and choice of keycaps.

In terms of feel, the Carrot switch offers a uniquely bouncy and snappy tactile experience, characterized by its two-stage spring that enhances the typing dynamics. Users are likely to appreciate the lively feedback and the gentle resistance inherent in its stepped design, providing a clear distinction between pre-travel and post-travel sensations during typing. Conversely, the Matcha Latte V2 also presents a bouncy feel, but with a creamy smoothness that is particularly enjoyable. The generous factory lubrication minimizes stem wobble and contributes to a buttery typing experience, ensuring that the switch feels effortless and elegant with each keystroke.

In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch delivers a bright, pronounced sound and a responsive, bouncy feel with its unique spring design, making it ideal for those who enjoy tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 promises a smooth, linear experience that prioritizes ease of typing with its buttery feel and subtle sound characteristics. Depending on individual preferences, one might choose between the tactile excitement of the Carrot or the silky smoothness of the Matcha Latte V2, with both switches capable of providing enjoyable typing experiences that cater to different user needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing style and the experience you desire. If you appreciate a lively and tactile feedback with a bouncy feel, the Carrot switch could be your go-to option. It's perfect for those who enjoy a more interactive and snappy typing experience, making it ideal for both gaming and fast-paced typing tasks where you want to feel each keystroke distinctly. Additionally, its clacky and high-pitched sound profile can add an enjoyable auditory element to your typing, particularly in a personal setup. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and seamless typing experience, the Matcha Latte V2 will likely suit you better. Its creamy, linear feel is designed for effortless keystrokes and is ideal for long typing sessions, whether for work or leisure. The generous factory lubrication combined with minimal stem wobble ensures a consistently pleasant typing experience without the distraction of excessive noise. In shared spaces, its subtle presence makes it a more considerate choice. Ultimately, assessing your needs will guide you toward the switch that enhances your keyboard experience the most.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$3.99 per 10

Learn more