Aflion Carrot vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Carrot and the Gazzew U4 are two renowned options in the category of tactile switches. The Carrot switch stands out for its unique bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. It offers a satisfying mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switches bring about an exhilarating tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation, creating a typing experience that is both sharp and surprisingly felt-like. Additionally, the U4s boast a sound profile that is whisper quiet, making them ideal for those seeking a more muted and low-pitched typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Carrot Tactile

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Gazzew U4 differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Carrot features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. The U4, on the other hand, utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, commonly known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness.

In terms of their bottom housing materials, the Carrot utilizes a nylon housing, while the U4 employs its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing. Typing on nylon-based switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Similarly, the U4's Gazzew blend bottom housing, with its softness and "boba plastic" composition, also delivers a rich and deep sound profile.

While the housing materials of the Carrot and U4 differ, it is important to note that the qualities each housing material brings to the switch are split between the top and bottom. When pressing down on these switches, the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, despite their distinct housing materials, both the Carrot and U4 can provide similar results in terms of sound profiles, albeit with variations depending on the specific characteristics of polycarbonate and the Gazzew blend.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are noticeable differences to consider. The Carrot stands out as the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the U4 offers a slightly heavier feel with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. This provides a more substantial typing experience for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. While the Carrot is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, the U4 offers a medium level of force for both categories. Overall, the preference between the two switches will depend on whether a lighter or heavier force is desired, with the Carrot providing a lighter option and the U4 offering a medium push feel.

Travel distance

The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can make a difference in the typing experience. The Carrot's 4 mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, providing a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the U4's 3.6 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, catering to those who prefer a quicker response time. Gamers, in particular, often opt for shorter travel distances as it allows for faster key presses. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference - if you value a more responsive typing experience, the U4 with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a deeper key press with a sense of solidity, the Carrot's longer travel distance would be more suitable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Carrot switch offers a unique clacky profile. This means that when the switch is pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound. Additionally, the Carrot switch has a marbly sound, which is resonant, high-pitched, and clean. It can be likened to tapping on a piece of marble or the sound of billiard balls colliding. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch is described as muted. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. It provides a low-pitched and bass-heavy tone, giving it a more mellow sound. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's design and the keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Aflion Carrot switch is known for its bouncy and snappy tactile experience. It provides a spring-like feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and providing rebound when pressed. The Carrot switch is also described as a stepped switch, which means it has two stages in its tactile feedback. This makes it feel more mild compared to hypertactile switches, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, it is considered feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from the fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and provides comfort during extended typing sessions. The Carrot switch is also described as subtle, which means it has a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.

On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch is known for its sharp tactile bump. This means that when the switch is pressed, users can feel a strong and crisp tactile feedback with each and every keypress. While there is no additional information provided about its feel, it can be inferred that the U4 switch offers a satisfying and intense tactile experience.

In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot and Gazzew U4 switches offer different subjective qualities. The Carrot switch provides a bouncy and snappy tactile experience, along with a unique clacky and marbly sound profile. It is also described as feathery, subtle, and stepped. On the other hand, the U4 switch offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, along with a muted and low-pitched sound profile. While there is limited information about the feel of the U4 switch, its sharp tactile bump suggests a satisfying and intense tactile experience. If you are looking for a unique and bouncy tactile switch with a clacky sound, the Carrot switch is a great option. If you prefer a sharp and crisp tactile bump with a muted sound, the U4 switch would be a suitable choice. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard's design and the keycaps used, as they can also affect the overall sound and feel of the switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a lighter and bouncier tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot switch would be the ideal choice for you. This switch offers a fun and lively typing feel, perfect for those who enjoy a spring-like feedback sensation. The Carrot also produces a clacky and marbly sound, adding to the overall tactile experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 switch would be more suitable. This switch provides a sharp feedback intensity and a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Additionally, the U4 switch has a sound profile that is whisper quiet, making it ideal for shared spaces. Ultimately, the decision between the Carrot and U4 switches boils down to your personal preferences for weight, tactility, and sound.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Carrot Tactile

$4.60

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more