Aflion Carrot vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Peach offer distinct experiences for users. The Carrot boasts a tactile switch, known for its long, two-stage spring that provides a bouncy and uniquely satisfying tactile experience. Additionally, the Carrot switch offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, adding to the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the Peach switch is a linear switch that has garnered attention for its smooth typing experience and deep, thocky sound profile. It is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild. While these general descriptions give us a glimpse into the features of these switches, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Peach, specifically the polycarbonate top housing, share similar qualities. Both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful in the top housing of a switch if RGB lighting is desired. So, in terms of sound and aesthetic effects, the Carrot and the Peach will provide similar results.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, they differ in material. The Carrot uses a nylon bottom housing, while the Peach also contains a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Carrot and the Peach will provide a similar typing experience with their nylon bottom housings, creating a deeper and fuller sound.
It is important to note that the combination of different housing materials in a switch can affect the overall sound and feel. In the case of these switches, the qualities of the bottom housing, such as the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will be more pronounced when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This means that while the Carrot and the Peach may have similar sound profiles overall, the specific characteristics of each housing material will come into play at different moments during typing, providing a nuanced experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, their actuation forces and bottom out forces differ slightly. The Aflion Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the KTT Peach's 45 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Carrot is lighter at 45 grams, while the Peach requires a slightly heavier 53 grams.
Considering weight is an important factor when choosing switches. Those looking for a lighter typing experience that allows for longer periods of use may prefer the Carrot, as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower. This makes it suitable for tasks such as office work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may opt for the KTT Peach. Its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a more pronounced key press.
While the forces differ, both switches can deliver similar results to a certain extent. They cater to different preferences and typing styles, but both offer a smooth and responsive keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter touch or a more forceful keystroke.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback, making them suitable options for typing or gaming purposes. The identical travel distances of these switches ensure that users will experience similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness. Whether you choose the Carrot or the Peach, you can expect a comfortable and efficient typing experience with a consistent travel distance.
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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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 Carrot tactile switch is known for providing a uniquely bouncy tactile experience with its long, two-stage spring. It offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile that can be described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched. The bouncy feel of the Carrot switch provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving users a lively feel and rebound when pressed. It is also snappy and stepped, offering a more mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The feathery and subtle nature of the Carrot switch makes it exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.
On the other hand, the Peach linear switch is prized for its syrupy smooth typing experience and deep, thocky sound profile. The Peach switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. In terms of feel, the Peach switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Its qualities stand in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users.
In conclusion, the Carrot and Peach switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch provides a bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, while the Peach switch offers a syrupy smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also dependent on other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. Overall, both switches provide unique experiences and it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun and bouncy tactile experience, along with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot switches would be the way to go. These switches have a light bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a feathery and comfortable typing feel. The Carrot switches are also described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched in terms of sound, suitable for those who prefer crisp and bright sound profiles.
On the other hand, if you prefer a syrupy smooth typing experience with a deep and thocky sound profile, the KTT Peach linear switches are your best bet. These switches have a slightly higher bottom out force of 53 grams, offering a more moderate typing feel. With a low-pitched sound profile, the Peach switches provide a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, making them suitable for various environments.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switches and KTT Peach linear switches depends on your preferences. If you prioritize a bouncy tactile experience and a mid-pitched sound profile, go for the Carrot switches. If a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile appeal to you, opt for the Peach switches. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, so consider your typing style and environment to make an informed decision.
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