Aflion Carrot vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is important to note the distinct features of each. The Carrot switch is praised for its bouncy tactile experience due to its long, two-stage spring, along with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch does not have any standout features but is known to be reliable. While the Carrot switch is described as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Stepped', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Dustproof Brown switch has no specific characteristics listed. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Dustproof Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is especially useful for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows light to shine through. Additionally, both switches offer similar aesthetics with clear housings likely made of polycarbonate. However, the differences may lie in how the switches feel when typing, as the top housing material can have an impact on the sound when releasing a key.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Dustproof Brown both utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate, which allows it to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing will be felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite having different top and bottom housing materials, both switches offer a similar typing experience with the use of nylon creating a consistent sound profile.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Dustproof Brown play a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. While both switches have polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a clear and resonant sound, the use of nylon in the bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings affect how the switches sound and feel when typing, with the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is evident that there are differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Dustproof Brown's heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the Carrot has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams while the Dustproof Brown has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Carrot make it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Dustproof Brown provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar tactile feedback and typing experience in terms of travel distance. The Carrot and the Dustproof Brown are equal in this aspect, offering a consistent typing feel for those who prefer a 4 mm travel distance.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a unique and bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. It provides a clacky, marbly, and high-pitched sound when pressed, giving users a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it is essential to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot switch is characterized by its bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle tactile feedback. The long, two-stage spring in the Carrot switch provides users with a lively, responsive typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and strain. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is unknown. Without specific information on its tactile feedback, it is challenging to compare directly with the qualities of the Carrot switch.
Overall, the Aflion Carrot and Outemu Dustproof Brown switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Carrot switch is known for its unique bouncy feel and mid-pitched sound profile, the Dustproof Brown switch's qualities remain undefined. If a user is seeking a tactile switch with specific sound and feel characteristics, it is crucial to consider the detailed descriptions provided for each switch. Alternatively, if the desired qualities are similar between the two switches, users can expect to achieve comparable results in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Carrot tactile switch or the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Carrot switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a specific sound and feel, you may want to opt for the Dustproof Brown switch. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and typing experience when making your decision, and choose the switch that best suits your individual needs and preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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