Aflion Carrot vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Carrot and the Cherry MX Red mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note the key differences between these two popular options. The Aflion Carrot is a tactile switch known for its unique bouncy tactile experience due to its long, two-stage spring. This switch offers a firm and mid-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for users who enjoy a clicky and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is a linear switch that provides a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile. It offers a more textured typing experience, combining responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. While the Aflion Carrot is categorized by characteristics such as 'Clacky', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped', the Cherry MX Red is known for being 'Thocky' and 'Textured'. Both switches have their pros and cons, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Cherry MX Red, one key difference is in the top housing material used. The Carrot utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the MX Red employs a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While the Carrot's polycarbonate top housing offers a clearer and more resonant sound, the MX Red's nylon top housing provides a rounder and duller sound, catering to different user preferences in terms of typing experience and sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Aflion Carrot and the Cherry MX Red feature nylon bottom housings. This shared housing material between the two switches means that they would elicit a similar deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon's characteristics as a softer plastic that absorbs sound contribute to a duller and rounder sound, which is consistent across both switches. This similarity in material for the bottom housing suggests that the typing experience in terms of sound produced would be quite comparable between the two switches, focusing more on the top housing material for differences in sound profile.
Overall, while the Aflion Carrot and Cherry MX Red share a nylon bottom housing for a similar sound profile, the difference in their top housing materials results in distinct sound characteristics during typing. The Carrot's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, suited for those who prefer a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the MX Red's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, catering to users who appreciate a rounder sound profile. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound production can help users choose the switch that best fits their typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that the Carrot is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the MX Red requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Despite the slight difference in actuation force, both switches offer a relatively light typing experience compared to other switches on the market. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Carrot, while those who desire a bit more resistance may favor the MX Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and typing endurance.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This allows for a consistent typing experience across both switches. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches means that users can expect similar results when using either switch in terms of keypress feel and actuation point. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a consistent travel distance, making them suitable options for a variety of users.
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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 offers a unique and lively experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile that can be described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch provides a deeper and richer sound profile that is thocky and low-pitched. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Carrot being more sharp and snappy while the MX Red is more deep and satisfying.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its bouncy and snappy feedback, giving users a spring-like sensation that is responsive and lively. It offers a stepped and feathery feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is described as textured, providing a different tactile experience with noticeable friction when pressed. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience and cater to individual preferences.
Overall, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Carrot switch is more bouncy and lively with a mid-pitched sound profile, the MX Red switch provides a deeper and richer typing experience with noticeable friction. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Each switch will deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, allowing users to find the perfect match for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Carrot tactile switch or the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light and bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, then the Carrot switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a deeper sound profile and a more traditional linear typing experience, the MX Red switch could be the better choice. Consider the sound and feel descriptors provided for each switch to determine which one aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Carrot and Cherry MX Red switches will depend on the typing experience you are looking for.
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