Gateron Aliaz vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Aliaz and KTT Mannan Pipefish mechanical keyboard switches offer distinct features catering to different preferences. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments, providing a medium-heavy weight for a satisfying keystroke feel without the noise, making it a great choice for those who enjoy more pronounced typing feedback. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers effortless and enjoyable typing with its smooth linear action and light 45g actuation force, perfect for casual typists looking for a comfortable and precise typing 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
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and KTT Mannan Pipefish switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to their stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better light transmission. However, the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing continues this theme of sharpness, while the Mannan Pipefish uses a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the Aliaz's overall sound profile may lean towards a crisper and more resonant quality due to the consistency of polycarbonate throughout. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings may result in a more balanced sound profile with a mix of sharpness and depth. The nylon bottom housing of the Mannan Pipefish offers a unique typing experience with a deeper sound, contrasting with the clearer and more resonant sound enabled by the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing.
In terms of typing experience, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and KTT Mannan Pipefish switches may come down to personal preference. The Aliaz's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout its housing may provide a more uniform feel and sound when compared to the Mannan Pipefish's mixed housing materials. The Aliaz's sharper and crisper sound profile may appeal to those looking for a more precise typing experience, while the Mannan Pipefish's combination of polycarbonate and nylon could offer a more dynamic and varied sound with a deeper touch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz is heavier with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, whereas the Mannan Pipefish is lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. The Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while the Mannan Pipefish allows for a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to individual preferences and needs, ensuring that users can find the perfect fit for their typing style. For those seeking a lighter feel, the Mannan Pipefish is the way to go, while those desiring a heavier push may prefer the Gateron Aliaz.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when typing or gaming with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent and similar distance traveled when pressing down on the keys. This can result in a similar typing experience for users who prefer switches with a 4 mm travel distance. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable and satisfying typing experience with their respective travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The KTT Mannan Pipefish has an MSRP of $3.53 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mannan Pipefish for $3.05.
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
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. This makes it a suitable choice for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum, such as in an office setting. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various typing environments. The sound produced by both switches will vary depending on factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aliaz switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key presses with minimal resistance. This enhances the overall typing feel and reduces friction, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. Similarly, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a gentle resistance during key presses. This makes typing effortless, comfortable, and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is best suited for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback in a quiet environment, with its medium-heavy weight and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is ideal for casual typists looking for a comfortable and precise typing experience with its light actuation force and linear action. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on individual typing preferences and the specific typing environment. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Aliaz offering a more tactile feel and the Mannan Pipefish focusing on comfort and ease of typing.
Conclusion
In closing, you should consider choosing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch if you value a more substantial typing feedback with a medium-heavy weight, making it ideal for those who prefer a pronounced typing experience in a quiet environment like the office. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be a great choice if you seek a lighter actuation force for effortless and strain-free typing, perfect for casual typists looking for a smooth and precise typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for key feel and sound profile, so consider these factors when selecting the switch that best suits your needs and typing style.
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