Aflion Carrot vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available, each with its unique characteristics and benefits. Two popular switches worth comparing are the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Honey. The Carrot switch is a tactile switch that is best known for its bouncy tactile experience, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. Alongside this, the Carrot switch offers a firm sound profile with a mid-pitched tone. On the other hand, the Honey switch from TTC stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a delightful typing experience. These switches also boast a deep and pleasant sound profile. While this provides a general understanding of the differentiating features between the two switches, 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
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the TTC Honey share some similarities, particularly in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting for aesthetic purposes.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of materials for their bottom housing. The Carrot opts for a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Honey utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, emphasizing the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that this material offers.
When it comes to the impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch, the bottom and top housings play distinct roles. Pressing down on a switch primarily reveals the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when you let go of a key. While the Carrot and Honey may differ in their choice of bottom housing material, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall sound profile due to the shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light in terms of the forces required for operation. The Carrot has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Honey has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams.
In terms of actuation force, the Carrot requires a slightly lighter touch compared to the Honey switch. However, both switches fall within the range of lighter forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. This is particularly beneficial for those who engage in long typing sessions or extended gaming periods, as it reduces fatigue and allows for comfortable and extended use.
When it comes to the bottom out force, both switches again exhibit relatively light forces. The Carrot requires a slightly lighter force to reach the bottom-out point compared to the Honey switch. This may result in a softer and less impactful keystroke, which can be desirable for individuals who prefer a more cushioned typing experience.
In summary, both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Honey linear switch offer a lighter typing experience in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. While the Carrot switch requires a slightly lighter touch, both switches provide similar results for users seeking a comfortable and efficient typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, we can see that the Carrot has a slightly longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Honey has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The 4 mm travel distance of the Carrot is considered more traditional, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Honey's 3.8 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, which may be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the Honey to feel too abrupt or lacking in depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness and depth.
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 TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 known for its clacky and marbly sound profile. The sharp and snappy sound produced by the Carrot switch gives it a crisp and bright characteristic. Additionally, the resonant and high-pitched quality of the switch evokes the sound of tapping on a solid piece of marble or the collision of billiard balls. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch offers a more subdued sound. While not completely silent, the Honey switch provides a dampened and subtle sound signature, making it a suitable choice for shared spaces. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is known for its bouncy, snappy, and stepped characteristics. The two-stage spring of the Carrot switch offers users a uniquely bouncy tactile experience, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This lively feel gives the user a rebound effect when keys are pressed. Furthermore, the longer or dual-staged springs enhance the responsiveness of the switch, making the typing experience feel more alive and snappy. The stepped characteristic of the Carrot switch means that users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, adding a mild tactile sensation. In contrast, the TTC Honey linear switch is described as creamy, frictionless, and buttery. The smooth and buttery typing experience of the Honey switch is attributed to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. This results in a silky sensation, as fingers effortlessly glide across the keys with minimal resistance or friction. The fluid travel of the switch adds to the overall effortless and uniform typing experience. Similarly, the Honey switch also has a subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel, and the gentle sound signature makes it suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the TTC Honey linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Carrot switch has a clacky and marbly sound profile, delivering a sharp and resonant sound, while the Honey switch has a more subdued sound. The Carrot switch offers a bouncy, snappy, and stepped feel, with a lively and responsive typing experience, while the Honey switch provides a creamy, frictionless, and buttery feel, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. Despite their differences, both switches offer a subtle resistance and a suitable sound profile for shared spaces. Therefore, if a user prefers a lively and bouncy tactile experience with sharp sound, the Carrot switch would be a suitable choice. However, if a user seeks a smooth and buttery typing experience with a more subdued sound, the Honey switch would provide similar results. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the user's personal preferences and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a fun and bouncy tactile experience, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch is the way to go. With its long, two-stage spring, this switch offers a uniquely lively feel, providing a rebound sensation when pressed. Additionally, the Carrot switch has a mid-pitched and firm sound profile, described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience, the TTC Honey linear switch is a great choice. These switches offer a deep and pleasant sound profile, described as subdued. With a creamy, frictionless, and buttery feel, typing on the Honey switch will feel effortless and seamless.
Ultimately, your choice between the Aflion Carrot and TTC Honey switches will depend on your personal preference for tactile feedback and typing feel. Consider whether you prioritize a bouncy and uniquely tactile experience or a smooth and creamy typing sensation. Both switches have their unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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