Aflion Carrot vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Carrot and Outemu Cream Blue offer distinct experiences for users to consider. The Carrot is a tactile switch known for its bouncy tactile feel provided by a long, two-stage spring, along with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile. On the other hand, the Cream Blue is a clicky switch without any specific standout features mentioned. The Carrot switch is described as 'clacky', 'marbly', 'high-pitched', 'bouncy', 'snappy', 'stepped', 'feathery', and 'subtle', while the Cream Blue does not have any listed characteristics. Depending on personal preference, one might choose the Carrot for its unique tactile experience and sound profile, or opt for the Cream Blue for a more traditional clicky switch. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Cream Blue, we see that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Cream Blue boasts a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. Despite the differences in sound profile, both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing material.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Carrot and the Cream Blue feature a nylon bottom housing. This material choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. While the bottom housing may not have as much of an impact on the overall sound compared to the top housing, it still plays a crucial role in shaping the switch's sound profile. Overall, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches results in a similar typing experience with a focus on a deeper and fuller sound.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Aflion Carrot and the Outemu Cream Blue play a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and higher-pitched sound in the Carrot and a nylon top housing for a deeper and fuller sound in the Cream Blue, they both share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a consistent typing experience. The differences in housing materials between the two switches highlight the unique qualities and characteristics of each, providing users with a choice in sound profile based on their preferences.
Weight
The Aflion Carrot tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. The difference in weight between the two switches makes the Carrot more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Cream Blue is better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options to choose the one that best fits their preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance. This makes them equal in terms of the distance you feel when typing. Consequently, users can expect similar results in terms of key travel experience when using these two switches. This similarity in travel distance may provide a consistent typing feel across both switches, making them suitable options for individuals who prefer a specific travel distance in their keyboards.
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 Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 offers a unique and bouncy tactile experience with a mid-pitched and firm sound profile that can be described as clacky, marbly, and high-pitched. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Carrot is known for its bouncy and snappy feedback, providing users with a lively and responsive typing experience. It is also described as having a stepped and feathery feel, offering a comfortable typing experience with little finger fatigue. In comparison, the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue switch is unknown.
Overall, the Aflion Carrot tactile switch stands out for its unique bouncy tactile experience, mid-pitched and firm sound profile, and bouncy, snappy, and feathery feel. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch are unknown, it is clear that the Aflion Carrot offers a diverse and enjoyable typing experience for those looking for a switch with distinctive qualities. Ultimately, depending on personal preference, both switches could offer similar results in terms of sound and feel based on the provided descriptions.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Carrot tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a light bottom out force of 45 grams and enjoy a bouncy and firm tactile experience with a mid-pitched sound profile, the Carrot switch is a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and seek a sharp, snappy clicky sound, the Cream Blue switch might be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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