Aflion Carrot vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Dustproof Black offer users distinct experiences due to their different characteristics. The Aflion Carrot is a tactile switch that stands out for its long, two-stage spring, providing a bouncy tactile experience that is accompanied by a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black is a linear switch that is characterized by its lack of distinct features. While the Carrot switch is known for being 'clacky', 'marbly', 'high-pitched', 'bouncy', 'snappy', 'stepped', 'feathery', and 'subtle', the Dustproof Black does not have any specific standout characteristics. Choosing between these switches will largely depend on personal preference and what qualities appeal to individual users. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Both the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Dustproof Black utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, the Carrot's top housing made of polycarbonate may differ slightly in appearance or feel compared to the Dustproof Black's top housing, despite both ultimately offering similar sound qualities.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Dustproof Black feature nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This material choice impacts the overall typing experience, as the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel of each keystroke, providing a tactile experience that is distinct to switches utilizing nylon housings.
While both switches incorporate different materials for their top and bottom housings, the division of qualities between the two components contributes to a nuanced typing experience. The top housing, whether it be polycarbonate or nylon, will affect the sound produced when a key is released, while the bottom housing's characteristics will be more noticeable during key presses. This intentional construction allows for a balance of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, whether using the Aflion Carrot or the Outemu Dustproof Black, users can expect a premium typing experience with distinct sound profiles thanks to the carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences in terms of weight. The Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Dustproof Black features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who like a stronger push feel. The Carrot's lighter forces make it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Dustproof Black's heavier forces cater to users who appreciate a more robust typing sensation. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches offer users the option to choose based on their preferred typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In this case, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance. Since they both have the same travel distance, users can expect similar results when using either switch in their keyboard. The tactile feedback and linear feel may differ between the two switches, but in terms of travel distance, they are equal.
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 Dustproof 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 is known for producing a mid-pitched and firm sound profile with a unique bouncy tactile experience. It has been described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched, offering users a sharp, snappy, and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the sound qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch are unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Carrot is known for its bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle tactile feedback. Users experience a spring-like or elastic feedback with a lively and responsive feel. The switch offers a two-stage spring design, providing a unique typing sensation that is comfortable for extended use. In comparison, the feel characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch are not provided. It is essential to consider the typing experience and preferences when choosing between different switches.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch stands out for its bouncy and tactile experience with a mid-pitched sound profile, while the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch lacks specific details on sound and feel characteristics. Depending on personal preferences, users can expect a unique typing experience with the Aflion Carrot switch, characterized by its bouncy feel and sharp sound profile. For those looking for a linear switch with a different typing feel and sound, further research or hands-on testing may be necessary for a more informed decision.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Carrot tactile switch or the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and enjoy a bouncy, tactile typing experience with a mid-pitched sound profile, then the Carrot switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a linear, smooth typing experience without a specific sound profile preference, then the Dustproof Black switch might be more suitable for your needs. Be sure to consider the factors of sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision for the ideal mechanical keyboard switch.
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