SP-Star Ayara vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Mannan Pipefish are two popular options to consider. The Ayara is known for its medium heftness and is recommended for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. It offers a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish provides an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. Its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light actuation and bottom-out force make typing comfortable and precise. Perfect for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, specifically their top housings, differ significantly. The Ayara utilizes nylon as its top housing material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon is a softer plastic, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, giving it a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish incorporates polycarbonate in its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. It's worth mentioning that if the switch features a clear housing, it is likely to be polycarbonate, making it ideal for RGB lighting.
While the top housings differ, both switches share nylon as the material for their bottom housings. This choice of material in both switches results in a similar sound profile - a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder sound. Thus, typing on both the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Mannan Pipefish will provide a similar auditory experience due to the shared nylon bottom housing material.
The distinction between the top and bottom housings of these switches is noteworthy. The bottom housing material plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing materials for each part of the switch brings distinct qualities to the overall typing experience. While the Ayara and Mannan Pipefish differ in their top housing materials, users can expect similar bottom-out sound and feel due to the shared nylon bottom housing. However, the sound when releasing a key will vary based on the polycarbonate or nylon top housing material of each respective switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are noticeable differences to consider. The Ayara's actuation force is currently unavailable, while the Mannan Pipefish requires 37 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Ayara requires a relatively heavier 62 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish only requires 45 grams.
Considering weight as a factor, some individuals prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. This lighter option allows for less strain and fatigue during prolonged usage. In this case, the Mannan Pipefish with its lower actuation and bottom out force would be the more suitable choice.
On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. They seek a switch with a heavier force to provide a satisfying tactile feedback. For these individuals, the Ayara with its higher bottom out force would be a better option.
In summary, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force, providing a stronger push for a more substantial typing experience. Meanwhile, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is lighter, requiring less force for actuation and bottoming out, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This is the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance you feel when you press down on a key. Thus, both switches offer a similar travel distance, providing a consistent typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Ayara has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ayara for $5.40.
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 SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a neutral sound profile that falls between high-pitched and bassy tones. It produces a moderate sound when pressed, offering a satisfying and clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch also has a neutral sound profile, resulting in a moderate sound when pressed. Both switches are suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch provides a soft bottom-out feel while typing. The switch has a polished finish, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. This results in a sleek typing experience that enhances overall comfort and typing performance. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature. It offers gentle resistance during key presses and requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Like the Ayara switch, the Mannan Pipefish switch also has a polished finish, providing smooth and refined key travel.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offer unique qualities for different typing preferences. The Ayara switch is best suited for those who prefer a hearty typing experience, with its soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch is ideal for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey. Its smooth linear action, light actuation force, and polished finish provide a comfortable and precise typing experience. It's important to consider personal typing preferences and needs when choosing between these switches. By selecting either switch, you can expect excellent results in terms of sound and feel, as their qualities align with the preferences of most users seeking a moderate and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, we recommend the SP-Star Ayara linear switch. Its medium bottom out force of 62 grams provides a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, if you appreciate a more high-pitched sound when pressing the keys, the Ayara switch would be a great choice.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more effortless and strain-free typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be a better fit. With its light bottom out force of 45 grams and lengthened spring, this switch offers a smooth and comfortable typing experience. It is especially ideal for casual typists seeking a delightful and low-impact keyboarding journey.
Both switches have a polished finish, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the decision between the SP-Star Ayara and KTT Mannan Pipefish switches ultimately comes down to personal preferences. If you prefer a medium heftness and clacky sound, the Ayara is the way to go. However, if you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish is the better choice. Consider your typing style and preferences to determine the switch that suits you best.
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