Aflion Carrot vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Carrot and Akko V3 Piano Pro offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aflion Carrot is a tactile switch known for its bouncy tactile experience provided by its long, two-stage spring. This switch also offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, appealing to users looking for a more distinctive typing feel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro is a linear switch recognized for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, resulting in a lively and crisp typing experience. While the Carrot switch is characterized by qualities like 'Clacky' and 'Bouncy', the Piano Pro is defined by terms such as 'Creamy' and 'Silky'. Both switches have their own set of advantages, but diving deeper into their specifics will help you determine the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Akko V3 Piano Pro both use different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Carrot featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the V3 Piano Pro uses nylon for both the top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top housing of the Carrot creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, ideal for RGB lighting applications, while the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics based on their top housing materials, with the Carrot providing a clear and resonant sound, and the V3 Piano Pro offering a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Carrot and the V3 Piano Pro feature nylon housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in both switches having a consistent tone and feel when pressing down on the keys, as the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Despite the similar choice of housing material for the bottom, the switches may still offer distinct sound profiles based on their top housing materials, showcasing the importance of considering both components in creating the overall sound experience of a mechanical keyboard.
Overall, the difference in housing materials between the Aflion Carrot and the Akko V3 Piano Pro results in varied sound profiles for each switch. While the Carrot's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharp and clear sound with the potential for vibrant RGB lighting effects, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a commonality in using nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent tone and feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound characteristics, whether one prefers a sharper and resonant sound or a deeper and fuller tone in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Carrot is lighter in both regards. The Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a light typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. Those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the V3 Piano Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the weight of the switch is crucial depending on individual preferences for typing comfort and the duration of keyboard use. Both switches provide unique typing experiences, catering to different preferences with their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Carrot provides a bit more depth in its travel distance, which may be ideal for those who prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster reactions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 described as having a clacky and marbly sound profile, with a high-pitched tone. When pressed, users can expect a sharp and snappy sound, reminiscent of tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is also described as clacky but with a resonant quality, offering a higher-pitched and clean sound experience. Both switches offer unique auditory characteristics that add to the overall typing experience, each with its own distinct charm.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is well-known for its bouncy and snappy feedback, thanks to its two-stage spring design. This provides users with a lively tactile sensation, offering rebound and responsiveness with each keystroke. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is described as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, which gives a smooth and buttery typing experience. The switch offers a refined and polished feel, minimizing friction and providing a sleek key travel experience. Both switches aim to provide users with a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel, with the Carrot offering a more bouncy experience and the Piano Pro focusing on smoothness and polish.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Carrot switch provides a bouncy and snappy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Piano Pro switch offers a snappy sound signature with smooth actuation and a polished, silky feel. Whether you prefer a more lively tactile feedback with a sharp sound profile or a smooth and buttery typing experience, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between these switches boils down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun and bouncy tactile switch with a unique sound profile, the Aflion Carrot switch with its light bottom out force of 45 grams may be the right choice for you. The long, two-stage spring in the Carrot provides a bouncy tactile experience and a firm sound profile that some may find appealing. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams might be more suitable for your typing preferences. The Piano Pro switches are known for their lively and crisp quality, making each keystroke an enjoyable experience. Ultimately, your decision between the Carrot and the V3 Piano Pro will come down to whether you prioritize a bouncy tactile feel with a unique sound or a smooth and snappy linear switch with a distinctive sound signature.
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