PH Studio Aniya vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Mannan Pipefish mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer distinct characteristics to consider. The Aniya, known for its balanced sound profile with a pronounced clacky sound, provides a medium-light actuation and smooth feel, making typing a pleasant experience. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers effortless typing with its smooth linear action, light actuation force, and comfortable typing experience, ideal for casual typists. While both switches have their own unique qualities, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Aniya and the KTT Mannan Pipefish provide unique sound profiles through different properties. The POM top housing of the Aniya creates a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Mannan Pipefish produces a sharper and crisper sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Aniya's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Mannan Pipefish absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Aniya and the Mannan Pipefish focus on creating pleasing sound profiles, they achieve this through different means with their housing materials. The POM housings of the Aniya emphasize a unique and deep sound, while the polycarbonate housings of the Mannan Pipefish provide a sharper and crisper tone. Additionally, the softer nature of nylon in the Mannan Pipefish's bottom housing absorbs more sound, leading to a fuller sound profile compared to the Aniya's bottom housing. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences.
The impact of the housing materials extends beyond just the sound produced by the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can affect the overall typing experience and sound profile of a switch. Whether opting for the deeper and muted sound of POM in the Aniya or the sharper and crisper tones of polycarbonate in the Mannan Pipefish, users can customize their typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The Aniya has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience with minimal force required to register keystrokes. As the actuation and bottom out forces are quite similar between the two switches, users can expect a consistent typing feel whether they choose the Aniya or the Mannan Pipefish. Overall, for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use, either switch would be a suitable choice.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Aniya linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Aniya offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish provides a more substantial feel with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a deeper key press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and whether you prioritize a faster response time or a more robust typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Aniya has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aniya for $4.20.
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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Aniya linear switch is distinguished by its clacky sound profile with a hint of high-pitched tones, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is noted for its neutral sound profile, offering a moderate sound that is suitable for a wide range of users. Depending on your preference for sound, the Aniya may be more appealing if you enjoy a slightly louder and more pronounced typing experience, while the Mannan Pipefish delivers a more subdued and versatile sound.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Aniya switch stands out for its creamy and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key press that feels like gliding across the keys with ease. The use of Ly as the stem material in the Aniya contributes to its silky sensation, providing a delightful tactile feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch prioritizes an easy-to-press sensation with gentle resistance, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, ensuring a pleasant and responsive typing feel.
Overall, both the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aniya excels in delivering a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a creamy and polished typing feel, catering to users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile and auditory experience. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish provides a neutral sound profile with an easy-to-press sensation, perfect for those seeking a comfortable and strain-free typing journey. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results of smooth and enjoyable typing with distinctive characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Aniya linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, consider the factors of sound profile and typing feel. If you prioritize a more pronounced clacky sound and a smooth, creamy typing experience, the Aniya switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press, polished typing feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and typing comfort, so choose the switch that aligns best with your keyboarding preferences.
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