Aflion Carrot vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and the Jwick Taro are two popular options that offer distinct tactile experiences. The Carrot switch is best known for its uniquely bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Additionally, users can enjoy a mid-pitched and firm sound profile with this switch. On the other hand, the Taro switch provides a cozy typing experience, complemented by a snappy, medium-level of tactility. Typing on the Taro switch also produces acute and crisp clacks. While each switch offers a different tactile feel and sound profile, these generalities can help you make an initial choice. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Jwick Taro both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice not only provides a visually appealing translucent look, but it also contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Carrot and the Taro will offer similar results when it comes to the sound and aesthetic qualities of their polycarbonate top housing.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Carrot and the Taro employ nylon. Nylon is a well-established and widely used material in switch housings. Typing on switches with nylon bottoms elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer composition. The ability of nylon to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics creates a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, regardless of whether it's the Carrot or the Taro, the nylon bottom housing will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
However, it's important to note that the top and bottom housing materials can influence different aspects of a switch's performance. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, while the Carrot and the Taro may offer similar sound profiles overall, the specific tactile and auditory experiences when typing may vary slightly due to the composition of their respective top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Carrot has a relatively low actuation force of 37 grams, which means it requires a light touch to trigger a keystroke. In comparison, the actuation force of the Taro is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Carrot requires 45 grams of force to fully press down on the key, while the Taro has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams. This makes the Taro a medium-heavy switch in terms of the force needed for a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, if weight is a significant factor in switch selection, those seeking a lighter option for prolonged typing or gaming sessions may prefer the Carrot, while those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the heavier Taro.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Carrot is slightly longer than the Taro. The Carrot offers a more traditional travel distance, which may be preferred by those who are used to the standard feel of a keyboard. On the other hand, the Taro provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers looking for faster response times. It's important to consider personal preferences and needs when choosing between the two switches. If you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the Taro may be the better option. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when typing, the Carrot might be more suitable. Both switches offer different experiences, so it ultimately depends on individual preferences.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is best described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, similar to the sound of tapping on a rock-solid piece of marble or two billiard balls colliding. The sound profile is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. The Taro switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle typing experience. The long, two-stage spring of the Carrot switch provides users with a uniquely bouncy tactile feedback, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The typing experience feels more alive due to the snappy response, which can be attributed to the longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, the Carrot switch has a feathery feel, with exceptionally light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It also has a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel while being suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as buttery and stepped. The Taro switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, giving a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Similar to the Carrot switch, the Taro switch also has a stepped feel, meaning there is some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.
Based on the provided information, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch offers a more unique and bouncy tactile experience compared to the Jwick Taro tactile switch. The sound profile of the Carrot switch is clacky, marbly, and high-pitched, while the Taro switch is simply described as neutral. Both switches have a stepped feel, providing a mild tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. However, it is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches, as factors such as sound and feel can vary depending on the user's keyboard board and keycaps.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a fun and bouncy tactile experience with a light bottom out force, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch might be the right choice for you. Its long, two-stage spring offers a uniquely lively feel, providing a rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Carrot switch has a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, producing crisp and clacky sounds. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more playful typing sensation and prefer a brighter and percussive sound.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a cozy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Jwick Taro tactile switch could be the better option. These switches offer a snappy tactility, providing a satisfying feedback while typing. The Taro switch also produces acute and crisp clacks, giving a comfortable and uniform typing experience. With a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, the Taro switch is suitable for most intents and purposes, making it a versatile choice for both beginners and advanced users.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Carrot and Jwick Taro tactile switches depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a bouncy and lively tactile experience with a light bottom out force, the Carrot switch might be your best match. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable and uniform typing sensation with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Taro switch could be the perfect fit. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided to make an informed decision that aligns with your typing preferences.
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