Aflion Carrot vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a variety of options available to suit different preferences. Two popular switches that offer unique characteristics are the Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Oil King, a linear switch. The Carrot switch is best known for its 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 Oil King switch is praised for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile that resembles the snapping of a dark chocolate bar. With a categorization of being low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, and polished, the Oil King switch promises a satisfying typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Oil King differ in their housing materials, with the Carrot featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Oil King has a nylon top housing and a proprietary INK blend bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Carrot creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Oil King produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a more rounded and duller sound. Despite these differences, both materials are excellent options for switches that use RGB lighting, as they offer translucency for an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
In terms of the bottom housing, the nylon material used in both the Carrot and the Oil King contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic than harder alternatives, absorbs more sound, resulting in a more rounded and duller sound. This can enhance the typing experience for users who prefer a deeper and more substantial sound while typing. On the other hand, the Oil King's proprietary INK blend bottom housing creates a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, adding a satisfying clacky element to the switch's overall sound.
When it comes to the overall impact on the switch's sound and feel, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Here, the nylon bottom housing of the Carrot and the proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Oil King contribute their distinct characteristics. However, the top housing of both switches has a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of top housing material, whether it be polycarbonate or nylon, can greatly influence the overall sound profile of the switch, providing a variety of options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking different auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is evident that there are distinct differences in their weight. The Carrot switch has a comparatively lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Oil King switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy.
For individuals who value a lighter typing experience, the Carrot switch proves to be a suitable choice. With its lower actuation force, it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for tasks that demand extended keyboard usage, such as work or long gaming sessions. However, those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Oil King switch. Its heavier actuation force provides a stronger tactile feedback, resulting in a more pronounced and satisfying typing experience.
Although the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, it is important to consider personal preferences when making a selection. Both switches offer their respective advantages and cater to specific typing preferences. Whether one prefers a lighter touch or a heavier push, both the Carrot and Oil King switches provide options that can cater to individual needs and requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a satisfying amount of travel for tactile feedback and key actuation. With either switch, you can expect a smooth typing experience with a reliable and consistent travel distance.
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 Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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 Carrot tactile switch is known for its mid-pitched and firm sound profile. It produces a crisp and bright sound that can be described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched. The Carrot switch offers a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, similar to tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Oil King linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile with a deeper and richer tone. It offers a bass-heavy and mellow sound during key presses. Overall, if you prefer a sharper and higher-pitched sound, the Carrot switch would be a suitable choice, while the Oil King switch provides a deeper and bassier sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Carrot tactile switch offers a bouncy and snappy typing experience. Its unique two-stage spring provides a uniquely lively and elastic feedback sensation. The keys have a rebound when pressed, giving a spring-like feel. Additionally, the Carrot switch is described as stepped, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback. This switch allows the user to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, providing a more subtle tactile experience. It is also feathery, with an exceptionally light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Oil King linear switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience. It offers a smooth and buttery sensation when typing, with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Oil King switch provides a seamless and effortless typing experience, similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a bouncy and snappy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Oil King switch has a low-pitched sound profile with a creamy and silky typing experience. Both switches provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences, but the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a more unique and bouncy tactile experience with a lighter bottom out force, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch would be a great choice for you. Its long, two-stage spring offers a lively and fun typing experience, accompanied by a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. The Carrot switch is also described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched in terms of sound, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be your best pick. These switches offer buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. The Oil King switch is described as low-pitched and bassy in terms of sound, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a bouncy tactile experience with a lighter sound profile, go for the Carrot switch. However, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a deeper and richer sound, the Oil King switch would be the better option. Consider what you value most in a keyboard switch and choose accordingly.
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