Aflion Carrot vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the Jerrzi Salt Ice offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Carrot is a tactile switch beloved for its bouncy tactile experience and mid-pitched, firm sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice is a linear switch known for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, along with a light touch that ensures effortless actuation, making it perfect for users seeking an energetic and responsive typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Carrot and Jerrzi Salt Ice feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the Carrot's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller tone. This contrast in bottom housing materials may result in a difference in typing experience between the two switches.
On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice relies on polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, emphasizing a sharper, crisper sound profile throughout the switch. This consistency in housing material may provide a more uniform typing experience compared to the Carrot's mix of polycarbonate and nylon. While the Carrot offers a more distinct bottom-out sound and feel due to its nylon bottom housing, the Salt Ice prioritizes a clear and resonant sound with its polycarbonate construction. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound profile and typing experience of mechanical keyboards.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Carrot and Jerrzi Salt Ice both utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharp sound profile, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Carrot's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing absorbs more sound for a duller tone. These differences highlight the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience and sound of mechanical switches, showcasing how nuances in construction can create unique characteristics in each keyboard.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot is also lighter at 45 grams, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aflion Carrot, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Jerrzi Salt Ice due to its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Carrot has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Salt Ice. The Carrot's 4.0mm travel distance falls under the more traditional range, providing a bit more depth when pressed compared to the shallower 3.4mm travel distance of the Salt Ice. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Carrot. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific user's needs.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 unique combination of clacky and marbly characteristics, creating a sharp and resonant sound profile that can be described as both crisp and clean. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch provides a bright and clacky sound, adding an energetic and lively element to the typing experience. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, users can expect a similar level of auditory satisfaction from either switch when considering factors such as keycaps and keyboard board choices.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot switch stands out for its bouncy and snappy feedback, providing a lively and responsive typing experience thanks to its two-stage spring design. It also offers a subtle feel with gentle resistance, making it suitable for extended typing sessions in shared spaces. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is known for its light touch and vibrant feedback, offering an effortless actuation that is perfect for users seeking a responsive typing experience. Both switches provide a unique tactile feel that caters to different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for all users.
Overall, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offer users distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Carrot switch provides a bouncy and snappy typing experience with a unique sound profile, the Salt Ice switch offers a bright and clacky feel that is equally responsive. Depending on individual preferences and typing needs, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from either switch, knowing that they will receive similar results in terms of sound and feel regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it really depends on your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a bouncy and tactile typing experience with a firm sound profile, the Carrot switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and clacky typing experience with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice switch might be more up your alley. Consider factors such as sound, feel, bottom out force, and overall typing experience to determine which switch would best suit your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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