Aflion Carrot vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its bouncy two-stage spring which provides a distinctive tactile feedback that many users find engaging. Its mid-pitched, clacky sound profile adds an element of auditory pleasure that can be both satisfying and energizing. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie excels as a linear switch, distinguished by its creamy, silky smoothness that ensures a seamless typing experience. This switch delivers a low-pitched, thocky sound that many typists adore for its subdued and refined auditory signature. While the Carrot is ideal for those who enjoy tactile feedback and a lively sound, the Sea Salt Smoothie appeals to users who prefer a smoother, quieter 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

Aflion Carrot Tactile

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie differ significantly in their top housing materials, which plays a crucial role in shaping the switches' overall sound profiles. While the Carrot utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer qualities that facilitate a sharper and crispier sound, the Sea Salt Smoothie opts for a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted audio signature. This distinction means that when the Carrot is engaged, the sound is more resonant and bright, ideal for users who appreciate clarity, especially under RGB lighting conditions. In contrast, the muted undertones of the Sea Salt Smoothie provide a softer acoustic experience for those who prefer a less aggressive sound.

Although the Carrot and Sea Salt Smoothie diverge in their top housing materials, their bottom housing consists of materials that generate comparatively similar sound qualities. The Carrot is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, renowned for creating a richer and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb sound waves and reduce clarity. The Sea Salt Smoothie, with its POM bottom housing, also leans toward creating a muted sound, though it balances this with its unique acoustic properties. These bottom housings contribute to the overall depth of sound produced by each switch, culminating in an experience that is engaging yet varied based on the top housing material used.

When considering the combined effects of both top and bottom housings on the typing experience, it becomes apparent that while their characteristics differ, users can experience satisfying results from each switch. The Carrot delivers a bright and clear sound when the key is released due to its polycarbonate top, while the nylon bottom housing underscores a fuller response upon bottoming out. Meanwhile, the Sea Salt Smoothie offers a harmonious experience with its subdued bottoming out and release tones from both its POM top and bottom housings. Ultimately, users can attain a nuanced typing experience, whether they prefer the crispness of the Carrot or the unique depth of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, the differences in actuation force highlight distinct preferences in typing experience. The Carrot features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a great option for those who prefer less resistance while typing, which can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie has a heavier actuation force of 48 grams. Although the bottom out force for this switch is unknown, it suggests a firmer feel when typing. Therefore, the Carrot is the lighter option among the two, ideal for users seeking a more comfortable and less strenuous typing experience, while the Sea Salt Smoothie caters to those who favor stronger tactile feedback. This difference in actuation force underscores the importance of individual preference in switch selection.

Travel distance

The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch differ in travel distance, with the Carrot featuring a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sea Salt Smoothie has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Carrot the option for those who prefer a more substantial actuation feel, as its longer travel distance provides a more pronounced tactile response when pressed. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or users who favor quicker actuation for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference—whether one appreciates the deeper feedback of a longer travel or the snappier function of a shorter throw.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch produces a mid-pitched and firm profile that leans towards a clacky, high-pitched characteristic. This means users can expect a sharp, crisp sound that is both noticeable and percussive when keys are pressed. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch offers a low-pitched, thocky sound profile that is more subdued, creating a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The subdued nature of the Sea Salt Smoothie's sound contributes to a quieter typing experience compared to the more vocal Carrot. The overall acoustic experience of either switch can still be influenced by the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, making their performance somewhat variable.

In terms of feel, the Carrot switch shines through with its bouncy and snappy characteristics, providing users with a lively typing experience enhanced by its unique long, two-stage spring design. It offers a stepped tactile sensation, meaning that users will experience a noticeable change during the keystroke that can make typing feel more engaging. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Smoothie is recognized for its creamy and silky feel, creating a smooth and buttery typing experience. This switch’s design allows for an effortless glide across the keys, minimizing resistance during actuation. While both switches promote a pleasurable typing experience, their feel diverges significantly; the Carrot engages with tactile feedback, while the Smoothie focuses on smoothness and ease of use.

In conclusion, both the Aflion Carrot and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offer unique tactile and auditory experiences that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards. The Carrot is ideal for users who enjoy a lively, tactile feedback with a pronounced sound, making their typing experience alerting and dynamic. Conversely, the Sea Salt Smoothie caters to those who favor a smooth and subtle typing experience with a more muted sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, but both are capable of delivering enjoyable and efficient typing experiences in their own right.

Conclusion

To wrap up, the choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a lively and tactile typing experience that combines a moderate actuation force with a high-pitched, clacky sound, the Carrot is a fantastic option that energizes your keystrokes. Its bouncy feel and snappy responsiveness make it ideal for fast-paced typing, gaming, or any situation where feedback matters. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience with a more subdued sound profile, the Sea Salt Smoothie excels with its low-pitched, thocky acoustics and creamy, silky feel. This switch is perfect for those who work in shared or quieter environments, or anyone who values a buttery typing experience over tactile feedback. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize tactile sensations and auditory feedback or smoothness and subtlety.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn more