Aflion Carrot vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two noteworthy options are the Aflion Carrot and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), both of which fall under the tactile switch category. The Carrot switch stands out for its long, two-stage spring, providing users with a uniquely bouncy tactile experience. Additionally, this switch offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, contributing to a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is perfect for those seeking maximum tactility. With a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack, typing on these switches offers an invigorating feel. While these general pointers can help narrow down your selection, let's delve deeper into the characteristics of each switch to help you make the best decision for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Aflion Carrot and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches showcase distinct characteristics that result in different sound profiles. The Carrot utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This stiffness in polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound profile that is particularly well-suited for switches featuring RGB lighting. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) employs a POM top housing, contributing to a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer pleasing sound profiles, the Carrot's polycarbonate top housing delivers a more vibrant and visually appealing experience due to its translucent nature.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, the Carrot features a nylon bottom housing, which has a long-standing reputation in the industry. The use of nylon in the Carrot switch generates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder soundscape. Similarly, the POM T1 (Sunflower) also incorporates a POM bottom housing, leading to a pleasing and unique sound experience. The POM material complements the deeper side of the sound profile, offering a muted tone that distinguishes it from the Carrot's nylon bottom housing.
In instances where a switch has varying top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom parts of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing primarily influences the sound when the key is released. Although the materials used in the Aflion Carrot and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in their specific characteristics, they both contribute to an overall enjoyable typing experience, albeit with distinctive sound profiles rooted in their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is evident that there are noticeable differences. The Carrot switch has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, making it highly responsive and ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Additionally, its bottom out force of 45 grams ensures a satisfying keystroke without requiring excessive pressure. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch's actuation force is unavailable, which makes it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, its bottom out force of 67 grams indicates a medium-heavy switch, providing a more substantial typing experience.
Weight plays a significant role in the switch selection process, as it affects the user's typing endurance and the overall typing feel. Those who prioritize a lightweight switch might find the Carrot switch appealing, especially if they engage in prolonged typing sessions, such as at work or during extended gaming sessions. The light actuation force allows for quicker keystrokes and reduces finger fatigue over time. In contrast, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards switches with heavier forces. The POM T1 (Sunflower) switch, with its higher bottom out force, provides this desired resistance and enhances the tactile feedback during each keystroke.
While the actuation force of the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch remains unknown, it is worth noting that both switches cater to different preferences. The lighter actuation force of the Carrot switch offers a snappy and nimble feel, resulting in a smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch adds a touch of solidity and assurance, ensuring a more impactful typing sensation. Therefore, depending on personal preferences, users can choose the switch that aligns with their desired typing experience, whether it be lighter and agile or heavier and substantial.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch have the exact same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results and sensations when using either switch in terms of 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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 that can be described as clacky and marbly. The sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, reminiscent of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the sound of two billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a resonant and clean sound profile, with a higher-pitched sound that is sharp and immersive. This switch is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its bouncy and snappy qualities. The long, two-stage spring of this switch offers a uniquely spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the switch is described as stepped, meaning it has a mild tactile response with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It is also feathery, requiring little exertion and reducing finger fatigue. The POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, on the other hand, is sharp and offers high feedback intensity. Its strong and crisp tactile bump can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Similar to the Carrot switch, the POM T1 is also described as snappy and provides a reactive feel. It is considered accentuated, providing a prominent amount of tactility without overwhelming subtlety. The combination of pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and invigorating feel creates an immersive typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Carrot switch offers a bouncy and snappy feel with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the POM T1 switch provides a sharp and accentuated tactile experience with a resonant and clean sound profile. Both switches offer a satisfying and immersive typing sensation, catering to different preferences. If you are looking for a similar feel, the snappy and reactive qualities of both switches will provide comparable results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun and bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is a great choice. It has a light bottom out force of 45 grams, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Carrot switch is described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched in terms of sound, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum tactility and a satisfying clean clack, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the way to go. It has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, offering a sharp and prominent tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is described as resonant and neutral in terms of sound, providing a clean and sharp sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the Carrot and the POM T1 (Sunflower) will depend on your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter switch with a bouncier feel and a high-pitched sound, the Carrot is the better option. However, if you desire maximum tactility and a satisfying clack with a medium-heavy switch, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the ideal choice. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and the level of feedback intensity you desire to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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