Aflion Carrot vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot, a tactile switch, and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, a linear switch, stand out as popular options. The Aflion Carrot is known for its bouncy tactile experience due to its long, two-stage spring, along with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. In comparison, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is favored by budget-conscious enthusiasts for its poppy, clacky sound and smoothness, providing a creamy tactile feel. While the Carrot offers a unique tactile sensation, the Cream Yellow Pro delivers a vibrant auditory experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
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
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Carrot and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same top housing material, their key feel and sound may differ based on their respective bottom housing materials.
In contrast, the Carrot and the V3 Cream Yellow Pro feature different bottom housing materials, with the Carrot opting for nylon and the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizing polycarbonate. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the Cream Yellow Pro may contribute to a different typing experience, potentially resulting in a sharper and more resonant sound compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by nylon. Ultimately, the choice of bottom housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
While the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro may differ in their bottom housing composition, the overall typing experience may still be similar due to the shared polycarbonate top housing. Both switches offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to their polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the overall typing experience. However, enthusiasts may still notice subtle differences in sound and feel between the two switches, particularly in relation to the impact of their respective bottom housing materials on the bottom-out sound and key feel.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch. The Carrot requires 37 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro needs 50 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Carrot, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Carrot. The difference may not seem significant, but for those who prefer a shallower travel distance, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be the preferred choice. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the faster response time provided by the shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Carrot may appeal to individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing between the two.
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 Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing users with a sharp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offers a poppy and clacky sound, ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory feedback. While the specific descriptors for the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch are not provided, it is apparent that both switches offer a satisfying sound experience tailored to different preferences.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is recognized for its bouncy and snappy feel, thanks to its unique long, two-stage spring design. This provides users with a lively typing experience and responsive feedback. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is described as easy-to-press and feathery, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is polished, providing smooth key travel for a refined typing experience. Both switches offer distinct tactile and typing experiences catering to different user preferences.
Overall, while the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offer different sound and feel characteristics, they both deliver a quality typing experience tailored to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a bouncy and snappy tactile experience with a mid-pitched sound profile or a smooth and easy-to-press linear switch with a vibrant auditory feedback, both switches provide unique qualities that enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Carrot tactile switch or the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a bouncy and lively tactile feel with a mid-pitched sound profile, then the Carrot switch with its 45g bottom out force would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and easy-to-press linear switch with a poppy, clacky sound and a slightly higher bottom out force of 60g, then the V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be a better choice. Remember to also consider factors like keypress sound and feel, as well as your personal typing style and preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you is the one that aligns with your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
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