Aflion Carrot vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the Cherry Nixie are two options that stand out from the rest. The Carrot is a tactile switch that offers a bouncy tactile experience thanks to its long, two-stage spring, making typing a fun and responsive activity. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is a linear switch known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, with updated materials and springs for a blend of tradition and modern innovation. While the Carrot is characterized by a 'Clacky', 'Marbly', and 'High-pitched' sound profile, the Nixie is known for its 'Textured' and 'Thocky' feel. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may cater 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Cherry Nixie switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Carrot features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness that creates a sharper and crisper sound. In contrast, the Nixie has a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials have their unique qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the Carrot offers a clearer and resonant sound compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Nixie.
Moving on to the bottom housing of the switches, both the Carrot and the Nixie utilize nylon for this component. This material is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches offer a similar sound experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to the overall typing experience by delivering a rounder and more cushioned sound profile.
In conclusion, while the top housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Cherry Nixie switches offer distinct sound profiles, their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing results in a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The stiffer polycarbonate of the Carrot's top housing creates a sharper sound, contrasting with the fuller sound produced by the softer nylon top housing of the Nixie. However, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience regardless of the differences in the top housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that the Carrot switch is significantly lighter than the Nixie switch. The Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Nixie has an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Carrot switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Nixie switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may appreciate the Carrot switch for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the heavier Nixie switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a similar amount of travel when pressing down on the key. The 4 mm travel distance offers a balance between typing comfort and speed, allowing for a satisfying typing experience without the need for excessive key travel. Both switches provide a consistent feel and response, making them suitable choices for users looking for a comfortable and reliable 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 Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 is characterized by a clacky and marbly profile, offering a sharp and resonant sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, producing a deep and rich tone with a bass-heavy quality. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, with the Carrot being more crisp and bright, while the Nixie offers a deeper and more satisfying sound.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is described as bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle. These qualities provide users with a lively and responsive typing experience, offering a blend of soft feedback and light actuation force. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is noted for its textured feel, which may offer a slightly tactile sensation with noticeable friction when pressed. Both switches have their unique tactile feedback characteristics, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch offer users a variety of subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Carrot provides a more bouncy and tactile experience with a mid-pitched sound profile, the Nixie delivers a textured typing experience with a deeper, thocky sound. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, individuals can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, whether it be for gaming, work, or everyday use.
Conclusion
In sum, when deciding between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a bouncy and tactile typing experience with a mid-pitched, clacky sound profile, then the Carrot switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a substantial and textured typing experience with a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, then the Nixie switch would be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound characteristics.
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