Aflion Carrot vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and SP-Star Duck are both excellent options for those who prefer a tactile typing experience. The Carrot is best known for its uniquely bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Additionally, it offers a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you're searching for a more subtle tactile feel, the Duck switches are perfect for you. They provide a gentle tactility when typing and have a clean and crispy sound profile. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
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 SP-Star Duck have both similarities and differences. Both switches feature a top housing made of polycarbonate, which enhances the sound profile by creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate also adds aesthetic appeal, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, while the Carrot utilizes a nylon bottom housing, the Duck employs a polycarbonate one.
The nylon bottom housing in the Carrot switch offers a unique sound experience. Typing on switches with nylon housing generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing adds to its overall sound profile by creating a sharper and more resonant sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate produces a clear and distinct sound, contributing to a satisfying typing experience.
When it comes to the impact on key presses, the characteristics of the bottom and top housings play a significant role. Pressing down on a switch will primarily highlight the qualities of the bottom housing. The material used for the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and the overall feel of the key press. Conversely, the top housing becomes more prominent when releasing a key, affecting the sound produced. Thus, the choice of housing material in each section can result in differences in the typing experience and sound profile of the switches.
In summary, while both the Aflion Carrot and the SP-Star Duck share a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharp and crisp sound, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Carrot's nylon bottom housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, while the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the characteristics of the bottom and top housings impact the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the key press feel and sound, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Carrot switch has a relatively lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Duck switch, for which the actuation force is unknown. This means that the Carrot switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Carrot switch has a slightly heavier force of 45 grams, while the Duck switch has a higher bottom out force of 58 grams. This indicates that the Duck switch requires more force to fully press down and bottom out.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Carrot switch more suitable. Its lighter actuation force allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Duck switch, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. It should be noted that without the specific actuation force for the Duck switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, based on the available information, it can be inferred that the Carrot switch is generally lighter overall compared to the Duck switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it moves when pressed down. This is the distance that can be felt when a key is pressed. Comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Carrot and SP-Star Duck tactile switches, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressed, both switches will move 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, the results obtained from both switches will be similar in terms of travel distance.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers users a uniquely bouncy tactile experience. This means that when typing on the Carrot switch, users can expect a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. In addition to the bouncy feel, the Carrot switch also produces a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. The sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Overall, the Carrot switch provides a fun and tactile typing experience with a distinct sound.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience. Typing on the Duck switch provides a gentle tactility, making it perfect for those who prefer a less pronounced tactile feedback. The sound profile of the Duck switch is clean and crispy, suggesting a quieter typing experience. The Duck switch falls into the neutral category, which means it has a moderate sound profile and actuation force requirement suitable for various purposes.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot and SP-Star Duck tactile switches offer different subjective qualities. The Carrot switch provides a bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, while the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between a more energetic and pronounced typing experience with the Carrot switch or a gentler and quieter typing experience with the Duck switch. It's important to consider other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, as they can also impact the sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
Overall, both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have their own unique advantages.
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a light bottom out force, a bouncy tactile experience, and a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot switch would be a great choice. The Carrot switch offers a fun and lively typing experience with a unique bouncy feedback. Additionally, the clacky and marbly sound profiles of the Carrot switch add to the overall enjoyment.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switch is the way to go. The Duck switch provides a gentle tactility for a comfortable typing experience. With its neutral sound profile, it is suitable for various settings and purposes.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Carrot and the SP-Star Duck switches depends on your personal preference and typing style. The Carrot switch offers a more lively and bouncy feedback with a distinct sound profile, while the Duck switch provides a subtle and comfortable typing experience with a clean sound profile. Consider your desired bottom out force, tactile feel, and sound preferences when making your choice.
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