Aflion Carrot vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer a tactile typing experience are the Aflion Carrot and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Carrot is known for its unique bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Along with this, it provides users with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is perfect for those who desire a tactile switch but also require a quieter typing experience for noise-sensitive environments. This switch offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. While these general descriptions should help guide your decision, let's delve deeper to better understand the distinct features of each switch and ultimately find the one that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) share similarities in terms of the polycarbonate used for their top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound quality, making it an ideal choice for users looking for a distinct auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the integration of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Carrot features a nylon material, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known as a classic switch housing material and offers unique characteristics to the typing experience. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the bottom housings of both switches contribute to a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on these switches, users will primarily feel the impact and experience the sound qualities of the bottom housing. Conversely, the top housing will have a more pronounced impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Thus, while both switches share similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housings, the differences lie in the nylon bottom housings, which ultimately contribute to the overall sound and feel of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we can observe some distinct differences. The Carrot has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, indicating that only a gentle press is needed to register a keystroke. In comparison, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) does not provide specific information about its actuation force, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, the Carrot's bottom out force of 45 grams suggests that a slightly stronger push is required to fully depress the switch. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) boasts a greater bottom out force of 67 grams, which indicates a medium to heavy resistance when pressing the switch down completely.
Considering the weight of these switches, the Carrot can be considered lighter than the Silent T1 (Shrimp) based on their respective bottom out forces. Some users may prefer the Carrot's lighter actuation and bottom out forces, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing excessive fatigue. This would make it an ideal choice for those using the keyboard for work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may be drawn to the heavier actuation and bottom out forces provided by the Silent T1 (Shrimp). The increased resistance can provide a satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of assurance with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it can be observed that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience an equal amount of travel distance, resulting in a similar tactile feedback. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, there is no notable difference between the two switches, and users can expect similar results from both.
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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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 produces a clacky and marbly sound. This means it has a sharp, crisp, and bright sound profile, resembling the sound of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or the collision of billiard balls. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch's sound is described as muted. This means it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, the Carrot offers a more distinct and lively sound experience, while the Silent T1 provides a more subdued and noise-sensitive option.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch boasts a bouncy and snappy sensation. With its long, two-stage spring, it offers users a uniquely elastic and responsive feedback. This switch has a lively feel that provides rebound when pressed, making the typing experience feel more alive. It also falls into the category of stepped switches, offering a more mild tactile bump with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, the Carrot switch has a feathery and subtle touch, being exceptionally light to press and requiring little exertion from fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a stepped feel, similar to the Carrot switch. It also falls under the category of accented switches, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Silent T1 is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches provide tactile feedback and a satisfying typing experience, with the Carrot switch offering a more bouncy and lively feel, while the Silent T1 provides a polished and accented tactile sensation.
Considering the available information, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch provides a unique and bouncy tactile experience, with a firm and mid-pitched sound profile. It offers a feathery and subtle touch, with a snappy and spring-like feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Silent T1 is ideal for noise-sensitive environments, providing a muted sound. It has a stepped feel with accented tactility and a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. While they differ in their specific qualities, both switches offer tactile feedback and a satisfying typing experience. Depending on individual preferences and specific requirements, either switch can deliver a pleasant mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun and unique tactile experience, the Aflion Carrot switch with its bouncy and snappy feel would be a great choice. It also offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, giving you a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silenced switch and are in a noise-sensitive environment, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is perfect for you. It provides a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, ensuring a quieter typing experience. Additionally, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as stepped and accented, providing a nice balance of tactility without being overwhelming. Ultimately, the decision between the Carrot and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) depends on whether you prefer a bouncy and lively tactile experience or a silenced switch with a medium bump.
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