Aflion Carrot vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Brown both fall under the tactile category, offering a satisfying typing experience. The Aflion Carrot stands out for its long, two-stage spring that provides a bouncy tactile feel, along with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown doesn't have any standout features according to the provided information. If you're looking for a switch that is described as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Stepped', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', the Carrot may be the one for you. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Both the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Brown utilize polycarbonate for their top housing materials, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting due to its translucency. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent sound experience from both switches when typing.
On the other hand, the Carrot features a nylon bottom housing, while the Brown also incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, with the Carrot potentially offering a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the Brown.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Brown can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in bottom housing material (nylon for both) may result in a subtle variation in sound profile. Understanding how each housing material affects the typing experience can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it is clear that there are significant differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Aflion Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Brown has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Carrot may be the better option, while those who appreciate a heavier and more tactile typing experience may lean towards the Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot and Outemu Brown tactile switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be noted that they both offer a similar key press experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Carrot or the Brown switch, you can expect to have a consistent tactile feedback and key press experience with a 4 mm travel distance. So, in terms of travel distance, both switches provide the same result.
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 Brown 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
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch is characterized by its unique bouncy and lively tactile experience, providing users with a satisfying rebound when pressed. This switch is described as having a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, giving it a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. In contrast, the Outemu Brown tactile switch does not have specific descriptions available for sound or feel. Based on the information provided, it can be inferred that the Carrot switch offers a more pronounced and distinctive sound compared to the Brown switch, which may have a more subtle sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Carrot switch is known for its bouncy and snappy tactile feedback, thanks to its long, two-stage spring mechanism. This gives users a responsive and lively typing experience. The lack of specific feel descriptors for the Outemu Brown switch makes it difficult to directly compare the two switches in terms of tactile feel. However, given the absence of detailed information, it can be assumed that the Carrot switch may offer a more dynamic and engaging typing feel compared to the Brown switch.
Overall, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch stands out for its distinctive bouncy and snappy tactile experience, as well as its mid-pitched and firm sound profile. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Brown switch remain unknown, it is clear that the Carrot switch offers a unique and enjoyable typing experience for users looking for a switch with a responsive feel and satisfying sound profile. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results in terms of tactile feedback and typing performance, but the Carrot switch's specific qualities make it a standout choice for those seeking a more dynamic and engaging mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun and bouncy tactile switch with a light actuation force, the Aflion Carrot would be a great choice for you. The Carrot offers a unique tactile experience with a bouncy feel and a firm sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Outemu Brown might be more suitable for you. The Brown tactile switch is known for its versatile feel and sound, making it a reliable choice for a wide range of typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to your personal preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing experience.
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