Aflion Carrot vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Sky V3, a linear switch. The Carrot switch is hailed for its bouncy tactile experience with a long two-stage spring, providing a firm and mid-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Sky V3 from Dareu is celebrated for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering comfort and precision that caters to a wide range of typing preferences. While the Carrot switch is known for its 'Clacky', 'Marbly', and 'Bouncy' characteristics, the Sky V3 is classified as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. Each switch has its own unique strengths and appeals to different preferences, making it important to dive deeper beyond general descriptions to determine the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
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
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Dareu Sky V3 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the plastic's stiffness. This material is particularly beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for better light diffusion. On the other hand, the Carrot and Sky V3 differ in their bottom housings, with the Carrot utilizing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Sky V3 also uses nylon but creates a duller and rounder sound due to the softer nature of the plastic.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, the Carrot and Sky V3 offer similar typing experiences thanks to their shared polycarbonate top housings. The nylon bottom housing on the Carrot provides a deeper sound profile, while the one on the Sky V3 absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder tone. Depending on personal preferences for typing feel and sound, users may find one switch more appealing than the other based on the different qualities of their bottom housings. However, both switches benefit from the clarity and resonance provided by their polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of construction, the Aflion Carrot and the Dareu Sky V3 showcase how different housing materials can impact the overall sound and typing experience of a switch. While the polycarbonate top housing of both switches creates a sharp and crisp sound, it is the nylon bottom housing that influences the depth and roundness of the sound. By understanding the unique qualities of each housing material, keyboard enthusiasts can choose a switch that best suits their preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Carrot is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Carrot requires a mere 37 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V3 has a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams, but its bottom out force is unknown. This indicates that the Sky V3 may offer a slightly more substantial typing feel compared to the Carrot. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Carrot, while users who prefer a bit more resistance may find the Sky V3 to be more suitable for their needs.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, which means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a smooth and consistent keystroke feel, making them suitable for users who prefer a moderate key travel distance. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is identical, so users can expect comparable results when using either one.
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 Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 is known for its clacky and marbly sound profile, offering a sharp and resonant auditory experience that can be compared to tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is described as having a neutral and subdued sound, making it suitable for various environments and preferences, with a dampened and subtle sound signature. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, providing users with a choice between a lively and sharp sound with the Carrot or a more restrained and versatile sound with the Sky V3.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is characterized by its bouncy, snappy, and stepped feedback, providing users with a spring-like sensation, responsiveness, and a tactile experience with two stages. It also offers a feathery and subtle feel, reducing finger fatigue and providing a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide users with a different tactile experience, with the Carrot focusing on a lively and responsive feel, while the Sky V3 offers a more gentle and approachable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot provides a unique bouncy tactile experience with a clacky and marbly sound profile, along with a lively and responsive feel. On the other hand, the Sky V3 offers a neutral and subdued sound, coupled with a mild and gentle typing experience that caters to a wider range of preferences. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the distinct characteristics of the Carrot and the versatile qualities of the Sky V3 to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun and bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, then the Aflion Carrot tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound signature with a medium-light weight that offers comfort and precision, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch would be a suitable option. Consider your typing preferences and whether you prioritize a unique typing experience or a more neutral and versatile option when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both the Carrot and the Sky V3 have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, so choose based on what best suits your typing style and needs.
Mentioned in this article
