Aflion Carrot vs. Outemu Crystal Brown

Overview

When comparing the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Crystal Brown mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes clear that both offer a tactile typing experience. The Carrot is distinguished by its unique long, two-stage spring that provides users with a bouncy tactile sensation, along with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. In contrast, the Crystal Brown lacks any standout features but still offers a tactile typing experience. If you are looking for a switch that is 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Stepped', 'Feathery', or 'Subtle', the Carrot may be the perfect fit 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

Aflion Carrot Tactile

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Crystal Brown feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Both switches are aesthetically pleasing as well, with the clear housing allowing for RGB lighting.

In contrast, the Carrot utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, sharing similar qualities with the Carrot in terms of sound profile and typing experience.

Overall, the differences between the Carrot and the Crystal Brown lie primarily in their bottom housings, as both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing properties. While the Carrot offers a deeper sound profile with its nylon bottom housing, the Crystal Brown provides a similar experience with its own nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing sound and feel.

Weight

The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a relatively light bottom out force, with the Carrot at 45 grams and the Crystal Brown at 55 grams. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly different typing experience for users, with the Carrot providing a lighter touch and the Crystal Brown offering a bit more resistance. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Carrot switch, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may prefer the Crystal Brown switch. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a role in determining the typing feel and performance for users, allowing them to choose based on their preferences for typing comfort and speed.

Travel distance

The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same travel distance of 4 mm. This can result in a consistent tactile feedback and keypress experience regardless of which switch you choose to use. So, while the Carrot and Crystal Brown may have different characteristics in terms of actuation force or sound level, their travel distance remains the same, ensuring a similar typing experience for users of either switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is best known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which offers a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Both switches may produce different sound profiles depending on the keyboard and keycaps used, but if you prefer a sharper and more lively sound, the Carrot switch may be the better choice.

Moving on to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch stands out for its bouncy and snappy feedback, giving users a springy and responsive typing experience. Additionally, the switch is described as feeling stepped, providing a more nuanced tactile sensation compared to other switches. Unfortunately, details on the feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch are not provided, making it challenging to contrast the two switches in terms of tactile feedback. However, if you enjoy a switch with a lively and bouncy typing feel, the Carrot switch could be the preferred option.

Overall, while the Aflion Carrot and Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switches may have unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, the lack of information on the Crystal Brown switch makes it difficult to make a direct comparison. In general, both switches offer tactile feedback and may appeal to users seeking a satisfying typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a bouncy and snappy feel and a sharp, high-pitched sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch may be the ideal choice based on the available information. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your individual preferences and typing needs.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Carrot tactile switch or the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a fun, bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched sound profile, then the Carrot switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light feel, the Crystal Brown switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique features, so be sure to consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more