Aflion Carrot vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch to the Gateron Milky Red Pro linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique benefits for different preferences. The Carrot switch stands out for its bouncy tactile experience provided by a long, two-stage spring, along with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switch from Gateron is praised for its smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, offering buttery smooth keystrokes and a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. Each switch has its own distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon for their bottom housing, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material. This results in a more muted and round sound compared to polycarbonate. While both switches share this characteristic, the Carrot's top housing is made of polycarbonate, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) features a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound but lacks the clarity and resonance of polycarbonate.
The use of different housing materials for the top and bottom components of the switches further highlights the contrasting sound profiles. The bottom housing, which directly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, allows the qualities of the softer nylon material to come through, creating a more muffled and less distinct sound compared to polycarbonate. On the other hand, the top housing, affecting the sound when a key is released, showcases the sharpness and clarity of polycarbonate in the Carrot and the fuller but duller sound of nylon in the Milky Red Pro (KS-3). These differences in housing materials contribute to unique typing experiences with each switch.
Overall, while both the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. The choice between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding sound characteristics. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound with the Carrot or a deeper and fuller sound with the Milky Red Pro (KS-3), both switches offer their own unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing feel and sound for enthusiasts.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a more comfortable option for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, but the Carrot switch is lighter overall, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch falls into the medium-light category. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a lighter or heavier typing feel for their desired level of comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distances, it is evident that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect similar results regardless of which switch they use. In this case, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, as they both provide the same travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity in travel distance may appeal to users who prioritize consistency and predictability in their typing experience.
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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 offers a unique and bouncy experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile that can be described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a smooth and affordable typing experience with a low-pitched and pleasing "thock" sound that is bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. While the Carrot switch produces a more sharp and snappy sound, reminiscent of a percussion instrument, the Milky Red Pro switch delivers a deep and rich sound similar to a soft thud or knock. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycap materials.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is characterized by its bouncy and snappy feedback, providing users with a lively and responsive typing experience. This switch offers a stepped feel with two stages and a feathery sensation that is light to press, reducing finger fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. The Milky Red Pro switch lacks the multi-stage feedback of the Carrot switch, instead focusing on a consistent and uniform typing sensation that is comfortable for extended periods of use.
When considering all the available information, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch provides a bouncy and tactile typing experience with a sharper sound profile, while the Milky Red Pro switch offers a smooth and buttery keystroke with a deep and pleasing sound. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches can deliver satisfying results, albeit with different characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the Carrot and the Milky Red Pro switch comes down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun and tactile typing experience with a bouncy feel and a mid-pitched sound profile, the Aflion Carrot switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and affordable typing experience with buttery keystrokes and a pleasing, low-pitched “thock” sound, then the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is the one for you. Consider your preference for sound, feel, and bottom out force when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Choose the one that best fits your needs and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
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