Aflion Carrot vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and TTC Neptune offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Carrot stands out for its tactile feedback, thanks to its long, two-stage spring that delivers a bouncy sensation with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Neptune boasts a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience with a unique springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls, offering an unparalleled "matte" feel. While the Carrot provides a more lively and tactile typing experience, the Neptune excels in providing a smooth and muted typing experience for those who prefer a more refined and unobtrusive ambiance. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Neptune offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetics. The Carrot features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound, particularly suitable for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Neptune's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Carrot's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, while the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile.
While both switches employ polycarbonate in their housing materials, the specific application differs between the Carrot and Neptune. The use of polycarbonate in the Carrot's top housing enhances the sound upon key release, creating a clear and resonant profile for RGB enthusiasts. In comparison, the Neptune utilizes polycarbonate in its bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This difference highlights how the distribution of housing materials can impact keypress sensations and sound quality in mechanical keyboards.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Aflion Carrot and TTC Neptune plays a significant role in defining the sound profile and aesthetic appeal of each switch. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate for a clearer sound or the softer nylon for a fuller sound, each material brings its unique characteristics to the typing experience. Furthermore, understanding how these materials are utilized in the top and bottom housings can provide insights into how keypresses are affected, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to tailor their mechanical keyboard setup to suit their preferences.
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 good option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In comparison, the TTC Neptune linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a slightly more substantial typing feedback. Both switches offer a relatively light feel overall, making them suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a factor. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience between the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Neptune. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly lighter or slightly heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Carrot has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neptune. A 0.2 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. The Carrot may provide a slightly more pronounced key press compared to the Neptune. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Neptune with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Carrot. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences in terms of travel distance and key press feel.
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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 described as producing a clacky and marbly sound, offering users a sharp and percussive experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch is known for its low-pitched and muted sound, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is softer and quieter. If you prefer a louder and more pronounced sound, the Carrot may be the better choice, while the Neptune offers a more subdued and refined auditory ambiance. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is characterized by its bouncy and snappy feedback, giving users a lively and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Neptune linear switch offers a buttery and frictionless feel, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. If you enjoy a more tactile and springy feedback, the Carrot may be more suitable, whereas the Neptune offers a seamless and uniform typing experience. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable and enjoyable feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Overall, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot provides a clacky and bouncy experience, while the Neptune offers a muted and buttery sensation. Depending on whether you prioritize sound sharpness and tactile feedback or prefer a softer and smoother typing experience, you can choose the switch that best suits your preferences. Remember that personal preference plays a crucial role in selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, so consider trying out both switches to determine which one aligns with your typing preferences the most.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider your preference for key feel and sound profile. If you enjoy a bouncy, tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Carrot switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights, coupled with a muted sound signature, the Neptune switch would be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so choose based on the tactile feedback and sound profile that best suits your individual preferences.
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