Aflion Carrot vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Red, a linear switch. The Carrot stands out for its unique bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long two-stage spring. Additionally, users can expect a mid-pitched and firm sound profile when typing on this switch. In contrast, the Red switch is known for its simplicity and straightforward linear feel. While the Carrot offers a variety of characteristics such as being clacky, marbly, high-pitched, bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle, the Red switch does not have any specific qualities associated with it. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference, but diving deeper into their individual characteristics will help you make the best decision for your typing experience.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Red, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the bottom housing of the Carrot is made of nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Red's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Carrot switch.
The use of polycarbonate in both the Carrot and Red's top housings results in similar sound profiles, with the stiffness of the material contributing to a clear and resonant sound. However, the differences arise in the bottom housing material. While the Carrot features a nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound profile, the Red maintains a consistent polycarbonate bottom housing. This means that the Carrot will have a more rounded and dull sound compared to the Red's crisper sound due to the absorption qualities of the nylon material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Aflion Carrot and Outemu Red plays a significant role in the sound profile and feel of typing. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a combination of qualities in each switch. The impact of the top housing is more noticeable when releasing a key, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials will determine the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of a switch.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Red linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 46 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Carrot still remains lighter at 45 grams, while the Red is heavier at 62 grams. This means that the Carrot will provide a light and gentle typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Red offers a more substantial push feel, which may be preferred by those looking for a firmer typing experience. Both switches have their strengths based on individual preferences, with the Carrot being ideal for lighter typing and the Red for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel distance. This makes them equal in terms of keypress feel and the distance required to actuate the switch. Whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Carrot or the smooth linear action of the Red, you can expect a consistent travel distance with either switch.
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 Red 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
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its bouncy and lively feel, providing users with a unique and responsive typing experience. With descriptors such as "bouncy" and "snappy," users can expect a switch that offers a spring-like feedback and quick response. This switch also features a two-stage spring, giving it a distinct tactile feel that is different from traditional switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch does not have any known subjective qualities listed for its feel. While the exact feel of the Red switch is not specified, linear switches typically offer a smooth and consistent keystroke without the tactile bump present in tactile switches.
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is described as having a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, with descriptors such as "clacky," "marbly," and "high-pitched." These qualities suggest that the Carrot switch produces sharp and crisp sounds when pressed, offering users a satisfying auditory experience. In contrast, no subjective qualities for sound are listed for the Outemu Red linear switch. However, depending on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, users can expect a clean and consistent sound typical of linear switches.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a unique and bouncy typing experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. Its descriptors like "bouncy" and "snappy" highlight its responsive and lively feel, making it a popular choice among tactile switch enthusiasts. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Red linear switch are unknown, users can expect a smooth and consistent keystroke without a tactile bump. Ultimately, both switches offer different qualities that cater to personal preference, and users can achieve similar results in sound and feel based on their specific setup and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Carrot tactile switch or the Outemu Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a light bottom out force, a bouncy and firm feel, as well as a distinct clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the Carrot switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a smoother typing experience, with no specific sound or feel descriptors highlighted, then the Outemu Red switch might be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired key feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice is yours based on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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