Aflion Carrot vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Carrot and Outemu Silent Grey mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both switches offer unique features for tactile switch enthusiasts. The Aflion Carrot is favored for its bouncy tactile experience provided by its long, two-stage spring, along with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey stands out for offering a quiet typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, making it perfect for those seeking a satisfying and silent switch. Both switches have their own sets of qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Both the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Silent Grey feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches also allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. In terms of sound, the polycarbonate top housing in both switches contributes to a more resonant and clear typing experience.
On the other hand, the Carrot and the Silent Grey differ in their bottom housing material. The Carrot utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to the softer nature of the material that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Silent Grey also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, the differences between the Aflion Carrot and Outemu Silent Grey lie primarily in their bottom housing material, with both switches sharing the same polycarbonate top housing characteristics. While the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles attributed to their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is evident that the Carrot is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Carrot requires an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Silent Grey has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in comparison. Those who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Carrot, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may find the Silent Grey more suitable due to its heavier forces. Both switches have their own advantages and are suited for different preferences in typing experiences.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key outfitted with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance between the two switches suggests that users can expect similar tactile feedback and typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, providing users with consistent performance in this regard.
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 Silent Grey 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 is best known for its clacky and marbly sound profile, which is sharp, snappy, and resonant. This creates a unique and lively typing experience that may appeal to users who enjoy a distinctive sound feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is known for offering a quiet typing experience, although specific descriptors for its sound profile are not available. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is described as bouncy, snappy, and subtly tactile. The long, two-stage spring in this switch provides a spring-like feedback and a lively typing experience, making each keystroke feel responsive and dynamic. In contrast, specific descriptors for the feel of the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch are not provided. However, being a tactile switch, it likely offers a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke that is satisfying for users seeking tactile feedback without the accompanying noise.
Overall, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch stands out for its unique bouncy and lively typing experience with a clacky and marbly sound profile, making it a fun choice for users who enjoy a distinct tactile and auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch focuses on providing a quiet and tactile typing experience without specific details on sound and feel descriptors. Therefore, if the user is looking for a similar level of tactile feedback but with a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch may offer a comparable alternative.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a bouncy and lively tactile feel with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Carrot switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, the Silent Grey switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
Mentioned in this article
