Aflion Carrot vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Blue are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Aflion Carrot is a tactile switch, known for its unique bouncy tactile experience thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Additionally, users can enjoy a mid-pitched and firm sound profile when typing on this switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch that is best known for its satisfying click sound when pressed. While the Carrot switch offers features like being 'Clacky', 'Bouncy', and 'Snappy', the Blue switch does not have any specific notable features listed. When choosing between these switches, one might prefer the bounciness and firm sound of the Carrot switch or the satisfying click sound of the Blue switch. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Blue, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetics of the switches. The similarity in top housing material ensures that users can expect similar auditory and visual experiences when using either the Carrot or the Blue.
On the other hand, the Carrot employs a nylon bottom housing, while the Blue also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing of both the Carrot and the Blue ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel.
In terms of functionality, the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the bottom and top housings of the switches. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing the key. Therefore, users may notice differences in sound and feel between the two switches based on the housing materials used for the top and bottom components.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that there are significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Blue's heavier 50 grams. This means that the Carrot requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it a more suitable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Blue clicky switch has a bottom out force that is unavailable, making it difficult to determine how much force is required for the key to fully bottom out. In terms of bottoming out, the Carrot has a force of 45 grams, which is still relatively light. Overall, the Carrot tactile switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, making it a more suitable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the switch travel 4 mm from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so you can expect similar results when using either one. This makes them equally suitable for individuals who prefer a tactile feel with a specific travel distance in their keyboard switches.
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 Blue 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is best known for its clacky and marbly sound profile, which provides a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, reminiscent of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch does not have a specific sound profile description provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a bouncy and snappy typing experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring that provides a lively and responsive feel. Additionally, the Carrot switch is described as feeling stepped and feathery, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, there is no specific description provided for the feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch stands out for its unique bouncy tactile experience and mid-pitched sound profile, making it a great choice for users seeking a lively and responsive typing feel. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Blue clicky switch are unknown based on the provided information, it is essential to consider factors such as personal preference, typing style, and intended use when selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch for your needs. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results depending on individual preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a bouncy and tactile typing experience with a mid-pitched sound profile, the Carrot switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a sharp and percussive sound, the Blue switch might be more suitable. Additionally, the Carrot switch has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it light and comfortable for extended typing sessions, while the Blue switch's bottom out force is unavailable. Overall, your decision should be based on your preference for feel, sound, and typing style. Ultimately, choose the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences and needs.
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