Aflion Carrot vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Black, a linear switch, offer unique features appealing to different preferences. The Carrot switch is beloved for its bouncy tactile experience provided by a long, two-stage spring, giving it a distinct feel compared to other switches. Additionally, users enjoy its mid-pitched and firm sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Black is a linear switch that doesn't have any distinctive features. This simplicity may appeal to users who prefer a straightforward typing experience without any additional bells and whistles. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Black both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the nature of polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they may differ in their bottom housing material.
The Carrot utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing compared to the Black's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This split between housing materials in the Carrot allows for a unique typing experience, with the qualities of each material manifesting themselves in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Black impact the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the Carrot's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Black's polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound, the choice of housing materials can significantly impact your typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more solid and substantial typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Carrot, while users who enjoy a more resistant key press may find the Black to be more to their liking. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences due to their differing actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing comfort and style.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing feel and experience provided by both switches will be similar, with neither being shorter or longer in travel distance compared to the other. This makes them both ideal choices for individuals who prefer a consistent key press 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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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 stands out for its unique combination of a clacky, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile. This means that each keystroke produces a sharp, resonant sound that can be both satisfying and distinct. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is praised for its bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle tactile feedback. The bouncy nature of the switch provides a lively sensation while typing, and the snappy response ensures quick and responsive keystrokes. The stepped feel adds an extra layer of tactility, making each keystroke more engaging. The feathery and subtle qualities contribute to a light and comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue. Unfortunately, there is no description available for the feel of the Outemu Black linear switch.
Overall, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a unique and satisfying typing experience with its bouncy and tactile feedback, along with a distinctive sound profile characterized by a blend of clacky, marbly, and high-pitched tones. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have specific qualities listed, so it may provide a more standard linear typing experience. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for you, so it's essential to consider your typing style, preferences, and intended use when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a bouncy, tactile typing experience with a light actuation force and mid-pitched sound, the Carrot switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a linear typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Black switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific feel and sound profile you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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