Aflion Carrot vs. TTC Silent Red

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Silent Red offer distinctly different experiences. The Carrot switch is best known for its fun and bouncy tactile feel, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. With a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, this switch provides a uniquely satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch is designed for those seeking a smooth and quiet typing experience. With a muted sound profile and a consistent feel from top to bottom, this switch is perfect for office or shared living space use. Additionally, it offers a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Aflion Carrot Tactile

TTC Silent Red Linear

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Silent Red switches share a common feature: Both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant and visually appealing effects. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and lighting when comparing the two switches.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Carrot and Silent Red switches diverge in material choice. The Carrot incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Carrot. In contrast, the Silent Red features a bottom housing also made of nylon, emphasizing a similar sound profile characterized by depth and fullness.

Considering the impact of the bottom and top housings on the overall typing experience, it is important to acknowledge that they contribute differently. The bottom housing plays a greater role in the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the sensation when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, although both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, users may find nuanced differences in sound and feel due to the divergence in bottom housing material.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Carrot offers a lighter experience with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the Silent Red requires a slightly heavier touch with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The Carrot provides a more effortless keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Silent Red offers a more substantial push feel, suiting users who desire a stronger and more robust typing experience. It is worth noting that both switches have a relatively low actuation force, ensuring similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and desired typing sensations.

Travel distance

The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Despite the difference in distance, both switches provide a decent amount of travel for key presses. The 4 mm travel distance of the Carrot is considered to be more traditional, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the 3.7 mm travel distance of the Silent Red is slightly shallower, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and in such cases, the switch with the longer travel distance could be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is well-known for its mid-pitched and firm sound profile. This means that when the Carrot switch is pressed, it produces a crisp and percussive sound. It can be described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched, which are all desirable qualities for those who prefer a sharper sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is specifically designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It has a muted sound profile, making it perfect for use in quiet environments such as offices or shared living spaces. The Silent Red switch provides a softer and quieter sound when pressed, ensuring a smooth and seamless typing experience without the distraction of loud key presses. Overall, if you prefer a sharper and more pronounced sound, the Carrot switch would be the better choice, while the Silent Red switch provides a quieter and more muffled typing experience.

In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a unique and satisfying tactile experience. It is described as bouncy, snappy, and stepped, which means that the keys have a lively and elastic feel with a spring-like feedback sensation. The longer and dual-staged spring of the Carrot switch adds to its responsiveness, providing a more vibrant typing experience. Additionally, the Carrot switch is also described as feathery and subtle, meaning it has a light actuation force and gentle resistance, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is known for its smooth and consistent feel from top to bottom. It offers a buttery and mild typing experience, where the keystrokes are smooth, effortless, and uniform. The Silent Red switch provides a gentle and approachable typing feel, which is suitable for most users. It is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Taking all these characteristics into consideration, the Carrot switch offers a more lively and bouncy typing experience, while the Silent Red switch provides a smoother and more uniform feel.

In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch have distinct qualities that differentiate them in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, while the Silent Red switch provides a muted and quiet sound. In terms of feel, the Carrot switch offers a bouncy and snappy experience with a feathery and subtle touch, while the Silent Red switch provides a buttery and mild typing feel with a polished finish. The Carrot switch is more suitable for those seeking a livelier and more tactile typing experience, while the Silent Red switch is ideal for those who prioritize a smooth and noise-free typing experience. However, it's important to note that individual preferences may vary, and it's recommended to try out both switches before making a decision.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a light bottom out force and a uniquely bouncy typing experience, the Aflion Carrot switch is the way to go. With its long, two-stage spring, you'll enjoy a lively and responsive feel while typing. The Carrot switch also offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a clacky or marbly sound.

On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience, the TTC Silent Red switch is the ideal choice. With a medium-heavy bottom out force, these switches provide a consistent and seamless feel from top to bottom. Additionally, their muted sound profile makes them perfect for office or shared living space environments.

Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a more tactile and lively typing experience with a distinct sound, the Aflion Carrot switch is for you. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the TTC Silent Red switch will be the better option.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more