Aflion Carrot vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may find yourself torn between the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Mint. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. On one hand, the Carrot switch is best known for its fun tactile experience and firm sound profile. With its long, two-stage spring, users can enjoy a bouncy tactile experience that adds a touch of excitement to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Mint switch offers a satisfyingly smooth linear experience. Its long pole stem creates a poppy thockiness that adds a satisfying tactile feedback. Moreover, it offers a light and fleeting type feel. 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
53g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the KTT Mint both feature polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Being a relatively stiffer plastic, polycarbonate produces a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those seeking an enhanced auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and lighting effects when utilizing either the Carrot or Mint.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Carrot and the Mint employ nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is considered a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to its relatively softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housing produces a duller and rounder sound. Thus, users can expect a similar sound experience when using either the Carrot or Mint, as both switches utilize nylon bottom housing.
However, one notable difference between the two switches lies in the split of qualities between the top and bottom housing. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the sound and feel of the bottom-out. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while both the Carrot and Mint offer similar sound profiles in their respective top and bottom housing materials, the distinction in impact during usage may affect the overall user experience to some extent.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Mint's 45 grams. Similarly, the Carrot has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Mint's 53 grams. Both switches have a lighter overall weight, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, if someone is looking for a more substantial typing feel, they may opt for the Mint with its slightly heavier forces. In terms of actuation and bottom out forces, the Carrot offers a lighter touch, while the Mint provides a medium-light push that may be preferred by those who desire a bit more resistance. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience the same 4 mm travel distance, resulting in a similar tactile feedback. Neither switch is shorter or longer in terms of travel distance, as they offer identical results in this aspect.
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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch provides a clacky and mid-pitched sound profile. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp and crisp sound, which can be described as bright and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that it offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, and its sound is moderate and suitable for most purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle qualities. This means that it provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation when pressed, offering a lively and rebounding feel. The longer and dual-staged springs in this switch make the typing experience feel more responsive and alive. Additionally, this switch has a gentle resistance, making it easy to press and reducing finger fatigue. Its typing feel is light, comfortable, and suitable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch is described as mild and polished. This means that it offers a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. The switch has reduced friction, resulting in smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Aflion Carrot and KTT Mint switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch provides a clacky sound profile, while the Mint switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound. In terms of feel, the Carrot switch offers a bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle typing experience, while the Mint switch is mild and polished, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience. It is important to note that personal preferences play a crucial role in deciding which switch is more suitable for an individual. However, if someone enjoys the bouncy and lively feel of the Carrot switch, they may also find a similar level of satisfaction with the Mint switch due to its smooth and gentle qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a unique and bouncy tactile experience, with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a fun and lively feel with its two-stage spring, providing a spring-like feedback sensation. Additionally, it produces a clacky, marbly, and high-pitched sound when pressed, perfect for those who prefer a sharp and crisp sound profile.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and satisfying linear switch with a light and fleeting type feel, the KTT Mint linear switch might be the better option for you. This switch features a long pole stem, resulting in a poppy thockiness when typing on it. It has a bottom out force that is slightly higher than the Carrot, giving it a medium-light feel. The Mint switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, suitable for various settings.
Ultimately, your choice between the Carrot and Mint switch will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prioritize a bouncy and tactile experience or a smooth and linear feel, both switches offer their own unique characteristics for you to enjoy.
Mentioned in this article
