Aflion Carrot vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) present two distinct experiences suited to different typing preferences. The Carrot, a tactile switch, stands out with its playful bouncy feel, attributed to its long, two-stage spring that delivers a firm mid-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a lively and engaging feedback with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a sophisticated, smooth typing experience, characterized by a neutral sound signature that resonates with a deep "thock" favored by many enthusiasts. Its dustproof stem significantly reduces wobble, providing a buttery sensation for those who prioritize a fluid and polished touch. While the Carrot is best for users who relish an energetic tactile response, the Sticky Rice (V2) excels for those seeking a refined and effortless typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), it is immediately evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to similar sound characteristics. Polycarbonate's properties impart a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, owing to its stiffness and resonance capabilities. This shared material choice means that users can expect a cohesive auditory experience, especially when utilizing RGB lighting, as both housings' translucency enhances the visual effects produced by the lights. Consequently, users of either switch can expect the same level of brightness and clarity, effectively integrating aesthetics with sound performance.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the two switches offer a contrasting experience, as both the Aflion Carrot and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer texture, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This choice results in a duller, rounder sound, which balances the crisper nature of the polycarbonate top housing. Thus, while the top housings deliver higher frequencies, the nylon bottom housings contribute to a more profound acoustic experience, resulting in a unique combination of sound profiles between the two switches.
The fundamental difference in sound characteristics brought about by the contrasting bottom housing materials means that while both the Carrot and Sticky Rice (V2) share the same top housing advantages, they exhibit complementary sound profiles. The overall sound experience is influenced by how the top and bottom materials interact when a user presses and releases the switches. The nylon bottom brings warmth and depth to the bottom-out feel, while the polycarbonate tops retain clarity during key releases. Therefore, devoted users who wish to maximize their typing experience can appreciate the synergy created between the similar top housings and distinct bottom housings within these switches, ensuring a well-rounded auditory and tactile experience.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, both switches exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. The Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Sticky Rice (V2) features a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Carrot switch is the lighter option, offering a softer keystroke feel that may appeal to those who prefer less resistance while typing. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2), while still light compared to many other switches, provides a firmer push, which may cater to users who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience. Overall, while both switches are on the lighter side of the spectrum, the Carrot will be more suitable for those who prioritize ease of use, whereas the Sticky Rice (V2) may attract users who appreciate a bit more force behind their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, it is evident that the Carrot has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Carrot the longer of the two switches, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel with greater depth in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Sticky Rice (V2) may be more appealing to gamers who favor quicker response times and more immediate feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: those who enjoy a hearty typing experience may gravitate towards the Carrot, while those who prioritize speed and responsiveness are likely to opt for the Sticky Rice (V2).
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 delivers a firm and bright auditory experience, often characterized as high-pitched and clacky. This means that when keys are pressed, you can expect a sharp, percussive sound that adds a lively atmosphere to your typing. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more subdued and low-pitched sound profile, which embodies the bass-heavy and mellow essence of the coveted "thock." This neutral sound signature is tailored for those who prefer a non-intrusive auditory backdrop while typing, making it ideal for shared workspaces or quiet environments. Thus, while both switches can deliver satisfying sound experiences, they cater to distinctly different aesthetic preferences.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot's bouncing and snappy characteristics provide an engaging tactile response thanks to its long, two-stage spring design. This switch features a stepped sensation, allowing users to experience subtle feedback at multiple stages of the keystroke, which can feel lively and responsive. Conversely, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is built for a polished and silky typing experience, allowing for smooth keystrokes with minimal resistance. This switch is mild in its feedback, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience that suits a variety of users. While the Carrot emphasizes a bouncier and snappier sensation, the Sticky Rice (V2) prioritizes smoothness and a refined touch, appealing to those who favor a more understated feel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches cater to different user preferences with respect to both sound and feel. The Carrot excels in delivering a bright, lively auditory experience paired with a bouncy and engaging tactile feedback, while the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more subdued and mellow sound alongside a polished, smooth typing sensation. Depending on whether you prioritize a vibrant auditory landscape versus a smooth and refined tactile experience, both switches can deliver enjoyable typing sensations, ensuring that you can find satisfaction in either choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you enjoy a lively and bouncy feedback with a distinctly high-pitched sound profile, the Carrot switch is an excellent choice. Its lighter actuation force of 45 grams makes it especially suitable for those long typing sessions or fast-paced gaming where you want an energetic response, and its snappy feel adds to the overall excitement. On the other hand, if you favor a more refined and smooth typing experience, the Sticky Rice (V2) may be your better pick. With a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, it provides a polished keystroke and a balanced, low-pitched sound that many enthusiasts cherish for that satisfying "thock." This switch is particularly beneficial if you work in shared spaces or prefer a more subtle typing sound while still enjoying a tactile and buttery feel. Therefore, consider your own typing habits, sound preferences, and the environments in which you’ll be using the keyboard when deciding between these two unique switches.
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