Aflion Carrot vs. Kailh Sage

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the Aflion Carrot and the Kailh Sage. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, catering to different user preferences. The Carrot switch stands out for its bouncy tactile feedback, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. It also produces a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, adding a sense of satisfaction to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sage switch is known for its distinct clicky typing experience. The weight of the Sage switch feels notably heavy, providing a sense of stability, while the clickiness is refreshingly sharp. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them appealing options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Carrot Tactile

Kailh Sage Clicky

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Carrot and the Kailh Sage both feature polycarbonate top housings, which results in a similar sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate brings a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound to the switch. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, creating a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Carrot and the Sage will provide a similar audio experience with their polycarbonate top housings.

On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Carrot and the Sage differ with their materials. The Carrot utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Sage also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. This creates a duller and rounder sound, emphasizing the impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound and feel of the switch. Both the Carrot and the Sage will provide a similar typing experience due to their shared nylon bottom housing.

Overall, the Carrot and the Sage share similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housings, which offer a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, they also possess distinct differences in their nylon bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, but the Carrot and the Sage will have slight variations in the specifics of their sound due to the unique characteristics of these housings. Nevertheless, whether it's the top or the bottom housing, both switches will provide a satisfying sound experience depending on the specific aspects of the keypress.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Carrot has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, meaning it only requires a gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the exact actuation force of the Sage is unknown. Moving on to the bottom out force, which measures the force required to fully press the key, the Carrot has a force of 45 grams, still on the lighter side. However, the Sage is comparatively heavier, with a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing users with a more substantial typing experience. It is worth mentioning that if the actuation force is not drastically different, the results may be similar. Considerations in weight are important as some prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others opt for heavier switches for a stronger push feel.

Travel distance

The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which is considered a more traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer a different experience when it comes to keypresses. Gamers, for instance, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you value quick and responsive typing or gaming, the Carrot switch would be a suitable choice. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keypress, the Sage switch with its slightly longer travel distance would be more appealing. It's important to note that shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular, but this ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a unique experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. It produces a clacky sound when pressed, which is sharp and snappy. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is known for a distinct clicky typing experience. It provides a refreshingly sharp clickiness, creating a crunchy sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Both switches offer satisfying auditory feedback, but the Carrot switch has a slightly higher-pitched sound compared to the Sage switch. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound experience, the Carrot switch would be a great choice. If you enjoy a pronounced and crunchy clicky sound, the Sage switch would be a suitable option.

In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch provides a bouncy and snappy typing experience. Its long, two-stage spring offers users a uniquely lively and elastic feedback sensation, giving keys a rebound when pressed. This switch falls into the category of stepped switches, which means that it has two stages of tactile feedback. It offers a mild tactile bump, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, the Carrot switch can be described as feathery, as it has a light actuation force that requires minimal exertion from the fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch provides an invigorating and sharp tactile experience. It offers pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. The tactile bump of the Sage switch is strong and crisp, providing distinct feedback with each keypress. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feel, but the Carrot switch has a more bouncy and feathery feel, while the Sage switch has a stronger and sharper tactile bump.

In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch provide different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch offers a bouncy and snappy tactile feel with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. It provides a clacky sound and a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Sage switch offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a refreshingly sharp clickiness. It has a heavier weight and provides pronounced feedback with a sharp tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a bouncy and feathery feel with a slightly higher-pitched sound, the Carrot switch would be a suitable option. If you enjoy a strong and sharp tactile bump with a crunchy clicky sound, the Sage switch would be a great choice.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when considering the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, it would be an ideal choice for those who prefer a light and bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. The Carrot offers a unique two-stage spring that provides a lively and responsive feel, making it enjoyable for typing and gaming sessions. Additionally, its clacky, marbly, and high-pitched sound characteristics add a distinct element to the typing experience. On the other hand, if you're in search of a clicky switch with a heavier actuation force, the Kailh Sage would be your go-to option. The Sage's sharp and invigorating tactile bump, along with its crunchy sound profile, creates an immersive and energizing typing sensation. Although it may require a bit more finger exertion, the Sage's pronounced feedback and reactive feel make it a great choice for those who seek a more intense and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Carrot and Sage will depend on your personal preference for actuation force, tactile feel, and sound characteristics. So, consider your typing style and preferences to select the switch that suits you best.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Sage Clicky

$6.25 per 10

Learn more