Aflion Carrot vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), a linear switch. The Carrot switch is best known for its uniquely bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Additionally, it offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is hailed as the epitome of a classic budget switch with its smoothness and buttery goodness. It produces a satisfyingly low "thocky" sound and provides a thick resistance that excels in both gaming and typing. These attributes make it a go-to switch for budget-conscious enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in terms of the materials used. The Carrot features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate housing of the Carrot creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Carrot and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) employ a nylon material. This classic switch housing material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to the softness of nylon, it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound experience when typing on these switches. Thus, the bottom housings of both switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound profile.
When it comes to pressing down on the switch and releasing a key, the impact of the housing materials differs between the top and bottom. The bottom housing, whether nylon in the Carrot or the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing, polycarbonate in the Carrot and nylon in the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Although the materials used may differ, the overall result is a combination of these housing elements coming together to create a unique typing experience in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are clear differences in weight. The Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. While the Carrot is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) falls into the medium range. Therefore, users seeking a similar result to the Carrot can opt for the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) as it provides a comparable level of actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences, with some favoring lighter forces for longer typing sessions and others preferring the heavier forces for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent experience in terms of the distance traveled from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. Whether you choose the Carrot or the Milky Yellow Pro, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall feel of the switch. Both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience, making them suitable choices for those seeking a smooth and satisfying keystroke.
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 Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow 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 is known for its unique bouncy tactile experience. This switch produces a mid-pitched and firm sound profile that can be described as clacky and marbly. It offers a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, similar to the sound of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is praised for its low, "thocky" sound. This switch has a deeper and richer sound profile with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It produces a satisfyingly thick and satisfying sound when pressed and released.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is described as bouncy, snappy, and stepped. It provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively and rebounding feel when pressed. The longer and dual-staged springs contribute to a super responsive typing experience. Additionally, this switch offers a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel while reducing strain on the fingers. It is also suitable for shared spaces as it has a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is often referred to as buttery. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing seamless and effortless typing sensation. Some users may prefer the textured feel of this switch, as it has noticeable friction when pressed.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch offers a bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, described as clacky and marbly. It has a lively and rebounding feel with subtle resistance, making it suitable for extended typing sessions in shared spaces. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro switch is known for its low, "thocky" sound and buttery-smooth feel. It provides a seamless and effortless typing experience with noticeable friction when pressed. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. With careful consideration of other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, users can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a fun, bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is the way to go. With its light bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a feathery and subtle feel, perfect for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. The Carrot switch's sound profile is described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched, providing a crisp and bright sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a classic budget switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the ideal choice. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a satisfyingly thick resistance and a buttery smooth typing experience. The Milky Yellow Pro is known for its low, thocky sound, characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying tone.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro boils down to personal preference. If you prioritize a bouncy tactile experience and a lighter typing feel, along with a crisp and high-pitched sound, go for the Carrot. However, if you're seeking a budget-friendly switch that provides smoothness, a low-pitched thocky sound, and a slightly heavier typing resistance, the Milky Yellow Pro is the way to go. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and uses.
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