Aflion Carrot vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Tom mechanical keyboard switches, both being tactile switches, there are distinct differences to consider. The Carrot is praised 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 Tom does not have any standout features listed. If you are looking for a switch that offers a unique and fun typing experience with a distinct sound profile, the 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Tom both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting capabilities. Both switches offer a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Aflion Carrot utilizes nylon, while the Outemu Tom also opts for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. Despite both switches using nylon for their bottom housing, the impact of this material will vary in terms of the overall sound and typing experience.
Due to the differences in top and bottom housing materials, each switch offers a unique typing experience. The qualities of the housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting both the sound profile and tactile feel. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction allows users to choose a switch based on their preference for either a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, depending on whether they prioritize the top or bottom housing material.
Weight
Comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is evident that the Carrot is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Tom. The Carrot requires an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Tom demands an actuation force of 55 grams. The bottom out force for the Tom is unknown. In this case, choosing the Carrot would result in a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. The heavier actuation and potentially bottom out force of the Tom would provide a more substantial typing feel, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the Outemu Tom tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Carrot offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Tom provides a shallower feel. Gamers might prefer the Tom for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper press may opt for the Carrot. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, allowing users to customize their keyboard to best suit their needs.
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 Tom 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 known for its clacky, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile. This means that users can expect a sharp, snappy sound with a crisp and bright tone when typing with the Carrot switch. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Tom switch is unavailable, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is described as bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle. This translates to a lively, responsive typing experience with a two-stage spring providing a bouncy sensation and light actuation force to reduce finger fatigue. Additionally, the Carrot switch offers a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not too resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. Unfortunately, there is no available information regarding the feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch, making it challenging to compare the two in terms of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot and Outemu Tom tactile switches offer differing subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Carrot switch boasts a unique bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the information on the Tom switch is limited, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, based on the available information, users can expect a lively and responsive typing experience with the Carrot switch, while the Tom switch remains a bit of a mystery in terms of its subjective qualities. Ultimately, users may achieve similar results with both switches depending on their personal preferences and typing style. It is recommended to try out both switches to determine which one suits your needs and preferences best.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is important to consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy and firm tactile experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the Carrot switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with an undefined bottom out force and are indifferent towards its sound and typing feel characteristics, the Tom switch may be suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best mechanical keyboard switch experience.
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