Aflion Carrot vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and Gateron Smoothie stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts. The Aflion Carrot is a tactile switch known for its bouncy tactile experience provided by a long, two-stage spring, along with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is a linear switch made entirely of POM, offering a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. Both switches have their strengths and appeals - the Carrot for its unique tactile feedback and firm sound, and the Smoothie for its smoothness and thocky sound profile. 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
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
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and Gateron Smoothie both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Carrot utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Smoothie's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials have their own qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the Carrot is more likely to be used for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Smoothie offers a unique sound that is on the deeper side.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Carrot features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted. Both materials absorb sound differently, with the nylon housing creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM housing's unique sound characteristics. Despite these differences, both switches offer a pleasing sound experience that caters to individual preferences.
When comparing the overall housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and Gateron Smoothie, it is evident that each switch offers its own unique sound profile. While the Carrot's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a crisper sound with a stiffer plastic composition, the Smoothie's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. Similarly, the Carrot's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller sound profile with softer plastic composition, while the Smoothie's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deep and muted sound experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the housing materials playing a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of each switch.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch. The Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Smoothie has an actuation force of 40 grams and an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Carrot make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of use without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Smoothie may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding typing force and feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the Carrot has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Carrot requires a slightly deeper press to actuate compared to the Smoothie. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Carrot. The difference in travel distance between the two switches highlights the importance of personal preference when choosing the right switch for your typing or gaming 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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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, producing a sharp and clean sound when pressed. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound signature, providing a deep and rich tone with a mellow quality. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, users can expect a more crisp and bright sound from the Carrot, and a more deep and satisfying sound from the Smoothie. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is characterized by its bouncy and snappy feedback, offering a lively and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch provides a buttery, creamy, and silky typing sensation, ensuring a smooth and uniform keystroke. Users can expect a more spring-like and elastic feel from the Carrot, while the Smoothie delivers a seamless and effortless typing experience. Whether you prefer a more lively and responsive feel or a smooth and fluid keystroke, both switches offer distinct tactile experiences for users to enjoy.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot provides a bouncy and clacky sound with a responsive and lively feel, while the Smoothie delivers a thocky and low-pitched sound with a buttery and creamy typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to customize their typing experience accordingly. Whether seeking a more tactile and bouncy feedback or a smoother and effortless keystroke, both the Carrot and Smoothie switches offer reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Carrot tactile switch or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a bouncy and firm tactile experience with a mid-pitched sound profile, the Carrot switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Smoothie switch could be more appealing. Consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what suits your typing style best.
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