Aflion Carrot vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Carrot and Sarokeys Purple Sakura mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique tactile experiences. The Carrot switch stands out for its bouncy and firm tactile feedback due to its long, two-stage spring, resulting in a mid-pitched and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch impresses with its snappy response and buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overwhelming, and producing a mild and neutral sound signature. While the Carrot switch may appeal to those seeking a more lively and bouncy typing experience, the Purple Sakura switch caters to users who prefer a smoother and more subtle tactile feedback. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Carrot and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. While both switches share this material in their top housing, any differences in sound profile may be attributed to other factors such as the switch design or internal components.
In contrast, the Carrot and the Purple Sakura diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The Carrot utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. Similarly, the Purple Sakura also features a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience. While the top housing may have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura play a vital role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Carrot's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Purple Sakura offers a similar typing experience with its own nylon bottom housing. Whether the differences in bottom housing material have a significant impact on the overall typing experience may vary depending on individual preferences and sensitivity to sound.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Carrot is 45 grams, while the Purple Sakura has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Carrot requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Purple Sakura, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. In terms of weight, the Carrot is lighter overall, making it suitable for longer typing sessions, while the Purple Sakura offers a stronger push feel for users who prefer a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This makes the Purple Sakura the shorter option and the Carrot the longer option. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Carrot is more traditional, providing a deeper press feel, while the 3.2 mm distance of the Purple Sakura offers a quicker response time, which is preferred by many gamers. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the Carrot providing a more satisfying depth and the Purple Sakura offering a quicker press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is often described as having a clacky and marbly profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound similar to tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a more neutral sound signature, with a moderate actuation force requirement that is suitable for various purposes. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, the sound of the switch can be influenced further. Both switches provide different sound experiences, with the Carrot being more distinct and crisp, while the Purple Sakura is more versatile and suitable for a wider range of users.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its bouncy and snappy feedback, providing a lively and elastic typing experience. It also features a stepped design, offering a two-stage tactile sensation for a more dynamic feel. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience, with a smooth and gentle key press that is approachable to most users. Both switches share the snappy characteristic, providing super responsiveness and a more alive typing experience. The Carrot switch emphasizes a bouncier and more tactile feedback, while the Purple Sakura focuses on a smoother and more uniform keystroke.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot and Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Carrot switch provides a more distinctive and bouncy tactile experience with a clacky and marbly sound profile, while the Purple Sakura switch offers a smoother and more buttery typing sensation with a neutral sound signature. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide an enjoyable typing experience, with the similarity of both switches being the snappy and responsive feel they offer. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the characteristics that best align with your preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a light tactile switch with a bouncy and lively feel, as well as a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Carrot switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactile switch with a snappy and buttery feel, as well as a neutral sound profile, the Purple Sakura switch could be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these switches boils down to personal preference and typing experience. So, choose wisely based on what feels best for you during your typing sessions.
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