Aflion Carrot vs. HMX SU

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the HMX SU offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Carrot, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its fun and engaging feel, characterized by a long, two-stage spring that delivers a uniquely bouncy tactile sensation with each keystroke. Its mid-pitched and firm sound profile, along with descriptors like "clacky" and "snappy," makes it a compelling choice for gamers and typists who enjoy a lively and responsive feedback. In contrast, the HMX SU is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and subtle, deep sound profile, thanks to its full PA12 housing and T5 stem. This makes the SU an ideal option for those who prefer quieter typing experiences without any tactile disruption. While the Carrot excites with its tactile bounciness and engaging sound, the SU offers a serene and uninterrupted input. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Carrot Tactile

HMX SU Linear

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the HMX SU, a significant distinction lies in the choice of materials for the top housing. The Aflion Carrot features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material's translucency also contributes to the visual aesthetics of RGB lighting, enhancing the overall functionality and appeal of the switch. Conversely, the HMX SU utilizes a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The contrasting characteristics of these materials mean that the Carrot is more likely to excel in situations where clarity and brightness are desired, while the SU may offer a warmer and more muted auditory experience.

Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, making a notable similarity in sound characteristics when it comes to that aspect. The nylon used in both the Carrot and SU creates a consistent foundation for deeper and fuller sound profiles, as this material's softness allows it to absorb sound, leading to a rounder tone. Given that the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, users can expect a similar tactile experience from both options. This unity in bottom housing material creates a baseline of sound quality that resonates across both switch designs.

Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials between the Aflion Carrot and HMX SU underscore how these switches can cater to diverse user preferences. While the Carrot’s polycarbonate top leads to a crisper auditory experience, the nylon top of the SU provides a more muted sound profile. Users seeking a clear and vibrant response might gravitate toward the Carrot, while those who prefer a more subdued and rounded audio output may find the HMX SU to be more appealing. Nevertheless, since both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, they will deliver a consistent sound quality and tactile sensation, allowing users to achieve satisfying results regardless of their material preference.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch to the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Carrot features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option. In contrast, the HMX SU has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This variance in weight means that those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the Carrot more suitable, while the HMX SU offers a more substantial typing experience for those who appreciate a heavier push feel. In summary, the Carrot is the lighter switch with lower force requirements, whereas the HMX SU is the heavier switch with a firmer actuation and bottom out experience.

Travel distance

The Aflion Carrot tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, the Carrot provides a more substantial depth, making it a better choice for those who prefer a hearty feel when typing. In contrast, the SU’s 3.6 mm travel distance caters to users looking for quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers. While both switches can offer satisfying experiences, the Carrot’s longer travel distance allows for a more pronounced tactile feel, whereas the shorter travel distance of the SU may feel more abrupt but can lead to faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for depth versus responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch produces a mid-pitched, firm sound profile that can be characterized as clacky and high-pitched. This means that users can expect a crisp and snappy auditory feedback when typing, which many find invigorating. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch features a subtly deeper sound profile, lacking detailed descriptors, but it can be inferred that it will not reach the same brightness of the Carrot switch. The contrast in sound is significant; while the Carrot provides a lively and engaging noise, the SU may offer a more subdued acoustic experience.

In terms of feel, the Carrot switch brings a uniquely bouncy and snappy tactile sensation to the table. With a long, two-stage spring, it offers a lively typing experience that allows for a dynamic and responsive interaction with each keystroke. The stepped nature of the switch means you can anticipate different sensations during the press and release, providing a satisfying feedback loop. In contrast, the feel of the HMX SU linear switch remains unknown, leaving potential users to speculate on its tactile feedback or overall responsive characteristics.

Considering both sound and feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch stands out as an exciting choice for those who appreciate an engaging auditory and tactile experience. Its clacky sound and dynamic response could be more enjoyable for individuals looking to enhance their typing or gaming with a lively feedback. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch may appeal to users who prefer a more understated auditory experience, although its specific feel dynamics remain ambiguous. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback; users seeking bounciness and snap would lean towards the Carrot, while those favoring a potentially smoother, deeper sound might consider the SU—keeping in mind that the overall experience can also depend on other external factors such as the keyboard and keycap choices.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you are drawn to a playful, bouncy, and responsive feel while typing, the Carrot switch is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy the tactile feedback that makes each keystroke feel lively and dynamic. Its lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams makes it more forgiving during extended typing sessions, perfect for those who might experience finger fatigue. Additionally, if you prefer a keyboard that produces a bright and clacky sound, the Carrot's mid-pitched tone will likely satisfy your auditory palate. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a more subdued yet still satisfying experience, the HMX SU linear switch is a better fit. With a bottom-out force of 50 grams, it provides a slightly firmer feel while its full PA12 housing and deep sound profile can offer a more muted auditory environment, ideal for professional settings or quiet spaces. In the end, consider what aspects of typing you prioritize, whether it’s the tactile engagement and sound profile of the Carrot or the smooth and subtle experience of the SU.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more