Aflion Carrot vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch to the Outemu Lotus linear switch, there are clear distinctions to consider. The Carrot switch is lauded for its bouncy and tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring, offering a unique feel that is both snappy and firm. With a mid-pitched sound profile and a range of descriptors like 'bouncy' and 'clacky', the Carrot switch appeals to users seeking a highly tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus switch is described as having a linear feel without any specific standout features. This can cater to users looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience without added tactile feedback. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Lotus utilize nylon as their bottom housing material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in housing material for the bottom of the switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile.
On the other hand, the top housing of the Aflion Carrot is made of polycarbonate, while the Outemu Lotus features a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, nylon's softer properties in the top housing of the Lotus lead to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. These differences in top housing material highlight how the choice of material can impact the overall sound profile of a switch.
The split between the top and bottom housings of the switches allows for a unique typing experience in each case. The qualities brought by the top housing material are reflected in the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. This division of housing materials in the Aflion Carrot and Outemu Lotus showcases how different combinations of materials can affect the overall sound and tactile experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light in terms of force required. The Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Carrot requires a slightly higher force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Lotus, but the Lotus requires more force to fully bottom out. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for extended periods of use. Users who prefer a lighter touch when typing may lean towards the Carrot, while those who want a slightly more substantial feel may prefer the Lotus. In general, both switches offer similar results due to their relatively low actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable options for various typing preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is evident that the Carrot has a longer travel distance of 4 mm while the Lotus has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Carrot falls into the more traditional range of travel distance, offering a deeper press feel compared to the Lotus. In contrast, the Lotus provides a shallower press experience, which may be preferred by those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance - whether one prefers a deeper press with the Carrot or a shallower press with the Lotus. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, catering to individual preferences, but ultimately provide a satisfying typing or gaming 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 Lotus 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 clacky and mid-pitched sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This switch also has a marbly quality, giving it a resonant, high-pitched, and clean sound, similar to the sound of tapping on a solid piece of marble or two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch provides a bouncy and snappy typing experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring that offers a lively and responsive feel. Additionally, this switch is described as having a stepped feel, meaning it has a two-stage tactile feedback that is less pronounced than hyper-tactile switches. It also has a feathery and subtle quality, making it light to press and comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. Conversely, information regarding the tactile feel of the Outemu Lotus linear switch is not available.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch offer different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Carrot switch provides a bouncy and tactile typing experience with a clacky and marbly sound profile, whereas information on the Lotus switch is lacking in this regard. If you enjoy a switch that is bouncy, snappy, and produces mid-pitched sound, the Carrot may be the better option for you, while opting for the Lotus would entail some uncertainty in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Carrot tactile switch or the Outemu Lotus linear switch, you should opt for the Carrot if you are looking for a light and bouncy tactile switch with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. The Carrot offers a fun typing experience with a uniquely bouncy feel and a clacky, marbly, or high-pitched sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a lighter bottom out force, the Lotus may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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