Aflion Carrot vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Milk Tea mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options in the tactile switch category. The Carrot switch is popular for its uniquely bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Additionally, users enjoy the mid-pitched and firm sound profile it offers. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch does not have any standout features mentioned. If you are looking for a switch that provides a fun, tactile typing experience with a bouncy feel and firm sound, the Aflion Carrot may be the way to go. 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
N/A
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
Ly
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 Milk Tea, we find that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Carrot features nylon which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Conversely, the Milk Tea also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, providing a similar experience with a focus on absorbing sound to create a rounder sound profile.
While both the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Milk Tea share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, they each offer a unique sound signature due to their choice of materials for the bottom housing. The Carrot, with its nylon bottom housing, delivers a more resonant and duller sound profile compared to the Milk Tea's nylon bottom housing. The difference in sound quality can be attributed to the absorption of sound by the softer nylon material, creating a deeper typing experience for users of both switches. Despite this variation in bottom housing material, the top housing material of polycarbonate ensures a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile for both switches, giving users a similar auditory experience overall.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Milk Tea impacts the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in the top housing for a clear and resonant sound profile, the use of nylon in the bottom housing sets them apart. The Carrot's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Milk Tea's nylon bottom housing offers a bright and resonant typing experience. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in each switch allows for a unique sound signature that caters to varying preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it is evident that the Carrot is lighter in terms of actuation force at 37 grams, while the Milk Tea requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Carrot again proves to be lighter, necessitating 45 grams compared to the Milk Tea which has an unknown bottom out force. The difference in weight between the two switches can cater to different preferences among users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Carrot for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may find the Milk Tea to be more suited to their needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot and Outemu Milk Tea tactile switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance. The travel distance of 4 mm for both switches provides a tactile feel and feedback while typing, ensuring a satisfying key press with each keystroke. Overall, the travel distance of both the Aflion Carrot and Outemu Milk Tea switches is the same, so you can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and feedback.
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 Milk Tea 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 blend of both clacky and marbly sound profiles, creating a crisp and bright tone when pressed. This distinctive sound is further enhanced by its mid-pitched and firm characteristics, making it a satisfying auditory experience for users. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is unknown, making it difficult to compare the two switches in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as keycaps and keyboard case, so individual preferences may vary.
Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is praised for its bouncy and snappy tactile feedback, giving users a lively and responsive typing experience. The two-stage spring design of the Carrot switch adds to its unique feel, providing a sense of rebound and increased tactility with each keystroke. In contrast, information regarding the feel of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is not available, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of tactile feedback. However, it is worth mentioning that the feel of a switch is a highly subjective aspect that can greatly affect the overall typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch stands out for its bouncy and snappy tactile feel, as well as its distinctive clacky and marbly sound profiles. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch remain unknown in terms of sound and feel, it is important to consider factors such as personal preference, typing style, and intended use when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have the potential to provide a satisfying typing experience, and experimenting with different switches can help determine the best fit for individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, you should consider your preference for a light bottom out force and a bouncy tactile experience. If you enjoy a switch with a bottom out force of 45 grams, a unique two-stage spring that offers a bouncy feel, and a mid-pitched sound profile, then the Carrot switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a softer bottom out force and are open to trying something new that offers a different tactile and sound experience, the Milk Tea switch could be worth considering. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound profile.