Aflion Carrot vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Cream Yellow, also a tactile switch. The Carrot switch is well-loved for its uniquely bouncy tactile feedback thanks to its long, two-stage spring, providing users with an enjoyable typing experience. It also offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, which adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch doesn't have any specific standout features mentioned but is still a solid choice for those looking for a reliable tactile switch. While these general pointers can guide you in making a decision, diving deeper into the specifics of each switch will ultimately help you determine which one is the best fit for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Cream Yellow, we see a clear distinction in the materials used for the top housing. The Carrot utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. In contrast, the Cream Yellow opts for a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer and more sound-absorbent properties. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Carrot is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Carrot and the Cream Yellow employ nylon for this component. Nylon's softer nature compared to stiffer plastics results in a duller and rounder sound profile, providing a different typing experience than the top housing material. Despite the difference in top housing materials, the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a similar typing feel with its sound-absorbing properties. This demonstrates how the choice of housing material can impact not only the sound but also the tactile feedback experienced by the user.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Cream Yellow play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. While the Carrot's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of both switches gives a duller and rounder sound, emphasizing the impact of housing materials on the overall typing feel. Understanding the differences in housing materials allows enthusiasts to make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. The Carrot switch is better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch and may find it more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, appealing to users who like a stronger push feel. Both switches provide tactile feedback, but the Carrot will provide a softer, lighter typing experience overall, while the Cream Yellow will give a firmer, more pronounced feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The difference of 0.7 mm between the two switches may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience and feel of the switch. The Carrot's longer travel distance offers more depth and may appeal to those who prefer a more traditional feel when typing. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's shorter travel distance provides a quicker response time, which can be advantageous for gamers or those who prefer a more responsive switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Outemu Cream Yellow 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 offers a unique and bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. The switch is described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch sound profile is not available, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its bouncy and snappy feedback, offering a lively and responsive typing experience. Additionally, the switch is described as providing a feathery and subtle feel, reducing finger fatigue and providing comfort during extended typing sessions. In contrast, details about the tactile feel of the Outemu Cream Yellow switch are currently unknown, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in this area.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch stands out for its unique bouncy tactile experience and mid-pitched sound profile, offering a responsive and comfortable typing feel. While information on the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is currently limited, it is important to consider other factors such as personal preference, keyboard build, and keycap selection when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best typing experience for your needs. If the Cream Yellow switch shares similar characteristics with the Carrot switch, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, you should opt for the Carrot if you prefer a light bottom out force of 45 grams, a bouncy and snappy tactile feel with a unique two-stage spring design, and a clacky, marbly, or high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and value a switch that is known for its characteristics such as snappiness, feathery actuation and subtle resistance, then the Cream Yellow would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and actuation force.
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