Aflion Carrot vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can be overwhelming, but two popular options to consider are the Aflion Carrot and the SP-Star RedBlue. The Carrot is best known for its fun tactile switch, offering a uniquely bouncy tactile experience thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Additionally, the Carrot switch provides a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches are particularly suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience. These switches offer a relatively higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Carrot. While these general pointers give an initial understanding of the switches, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your typing preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and SP-Star RedBlue share similar qualities in terms of their top housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a rigid plastic that promotes clear and resonant sound characteristics. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, whether one chooses the Carrot or the RedBlue, they can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal.
While the top housing materials align for the Carrot and RedBlue, their bottom housings differ. The Carrot incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which offers a classic housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a duller, rounder sound output. On the other hand, the RedBlue employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the qualities of its top housing. The polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile, reinforcing the overall sound experience of the switch.
As a result of the varied top and bottom housing materials, the user will experience different qualities depending on their interaction with the switch. Pressing down on the switch will primarily highlight the impact of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing will have a more significant influence on the sound produced. Therefore, users can expect a nuanced auditory experience based on their interaction with either the Aflion Carrot or SP-Star RedBlue, with the bottom housing material playing a role in the downstroke sound while the top housing contributes to the sound when the key is released.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Carrot has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, meaning it requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the exact actuation force of the RedBlue switch is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly. However, the Carrot's bottom out force of 45 grams suggests that it offers a slightly heavier typing experience when pressing the key all the way down. The RedBlue switch, on the other hand, has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which makes it slightly heavier in comparison.
Considering weight is essential when choosing a switch as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter feel may appreciate the Carrot's lighter actuation and bottom out forces, as it allows for prolonged typing sessions with less finger fatigue. This type of switch would be ideal for individuals who use their keyboard extensively at work or for long gaming sessions. However, those who value a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may prefer switches with heavier forces. In this case, the RedBlue switch provides a medium-light actuation force and a slightly heavier bottom out force, delivering a satisfying tactile response and increased resistance for those who desire it. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the key travel 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches offer a similar tactile experience 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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 known for its mid-pitched and firm sound profile. It falls under the category of clacky switches, which produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. It falls under the category of low-pitched switches, which typically feature a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The RedBlue switch can also be described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. In terms of subjective sound qualities, the Carrot and RedBlue switches offer different experiences, with the Carrot having a distinct clacky sound and the RedBlue having a lower-pitched, more mellow sound.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for providing a uniquely bouncy tactile experience. This is due to its long, two-stage spring, which offers users a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The keys have a lively feel and provide rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Carrot switch is also described as snappy, indicating its super responsiveness. In comparison, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a more gentle typing experience. It is categorized as a mild switch, meaning it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The RedBlue switch can also be described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. The RedBlue switch provides reduced friction and smooth key travel. In terms of subjective feel qualities, the Carrot and RedBlue switches offer contrasting experiences, with the Carrot providing a bouncy and snappy feel, while the RedBlue offers a mild and polished typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch has a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, described as clacky, along with a uniquely bouncy and snappy feel. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch has a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, described as low-pitched, and offers a more gentle typing experience, described as mild and polished. When it comes to sound and feel, these switches provide distinct experiences. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. This means that while the Carrot and RedBlue switches provide their own unique qualities, it is possible to achieve similar results by pairing them with different components.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a fun and bouncy tactile experience with a firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch would be a great choice for you. With its bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a light typing feel that is both feathery and subtle. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue. Additionally, the Carrot switch has a clacky and marbly sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience and a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, it offers a slightly heavier typing feel than the Carrot switch. The RedBlue switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth and refined key travel. The sound profile is low-pitched, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Carrot and SP-Star RedBlue switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a bouncy tactile experience with a light typing feel and a clacky sound, go for the Carrot switch. If you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound and a polished feel, opt for the RedBlue switch. Consider factors such as typing comfort, sound preference, and overall typing experience to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
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