Aflion Carrot vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, and the KTT Pine, a linear switch. The Carrot switch is best known for its uniquely bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Not only does this switch offer a satisfying tactile feedback, but it also produces a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Pine switch boasts a buttery smooth typing experience, with its medium-heavy weight and polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for effortless key travel. The Pine switch is also known for its translucent, forest green appearance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine which switch will best suit your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the KTT Pine, specifically the polycarbonate top housing, offer similar benefits in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a visually appealing display of colors.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Carrot and Pine feature different materials. The Carrot employs a nylon bottom housing, while the Pine features a polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Carrot offers a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the Pine contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, similar to its impact on the top housing.
When using these switches, it is important to consider the impact of the respective housing materials on the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing will have a more noticeable effect on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Carrot and Pine may offer similar benefits in terms of the top housing material, their bottom housing materials will result in different sound profiles and tactile experiences when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, we can see some noticeable differences. The Carrot has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, whereas the Pine requires a slightly heavier force of 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Carrot requires 45 grams of force, while the Pine demands a higher force of 58 grams.
Considering their weight, the Carrot switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Pine switch. This lighter force can be beneficial for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods without much strain. This makes it suitable for work environments or extended gaming sessions where comfort is important.
On the other hand, the Pine switch offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. This heavier force provides a more substantial push feel, resulting in a more tactile typing experience. For individuals who appreciate a stronger resistance and want to feel each keystroke, the Pine switch would be a suitable choice.
Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Carrot and Pine switches differ, with the Carrot being lighter and the Pine being heavier. However, it's important to note that the individual's preference will ultimately dictate which switch is more suitable for them. Both switches offer their unique advantages, and depending on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier force, they can achieve a similar typing experience with either switch.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the physical sensation of pressing down on the keys will be similar for both switches. Whether you choose the Aflion Carrot or the KTT Pine, you can expect to have a satisfying tactile or linear keypress experience with a travel distance of 4 mm.
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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. This means that its sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as having a deeper and richer sound profile. It is characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. So, while the Carrot switch has a sharper and clackier sound, the Pine switch provides a bassier and mellower tone.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its bouncy and snappy characteristics. The long, two-stage spring of the Carrot switch gives users a uniquely elastic and spring-like feedback sensation. It provides a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Conversely, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as being buttery and creamy in feel. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. This smoothness is achieved through the application of lubricant at the factory or through specific materials used in the switch construction. While the Carrot switch gives a bouncy and lively feel, the Pine switch offers a smooth and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the Pine switch is bassier and low-pitched. In terms of feel, the Carrot switch is bouncy and snappy, providing a spring-like feedback, while the Pine switch is buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. It's important to consider personal preferences and try out different switches to find the one that suits you best.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, you should primarily focus on its unique tactile experience and firm sound profile. The Carrot switch offers a bouncy and snappy feel, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. It provides a rebound effect when pressed, making it a lively and enjoyable switch to type on. If you prefer a more playful and tactile typing experience, the Carrot switch would be a great choice for you. Additionally, the Carrot switch produces a mid-pitched and firm sound, which can be suitable for use in shared spaces.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, the Pine switch offers a medium-heavy feel. It is described as buttery and creamy, indicating a seamless and uniform key travel. The factory-lubed finish reduces friction, allowing for smooth and fluid keystrokes. If you value a typing sensation that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, the Pine switch is an excellent choice. Moreover, the Pine switch produces a bassy and low-pitched sound, which can add a deeper and richer tone to your typing experience.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a bouncy and tactile feel with a firm sound profile, the Carrot switch is the perfect fit. However, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a bassy and low-pitched sound, the Pine switch would be an ideal option. Consider your desired typing experience and sound preference to choose the switch that resonates with you the most.
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