Gateron Beer vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Gateron Beer, a tactile switch, and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, a linear switch. The Gateron Beer switch is notable for its sparkling allure, boasting a mesmerizing translucent green design reminiscent of a Tsingtao beer bottle. With a lightweight construction and stepped tactility, this switch offers a unique typing experience accompanied by a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is favored for its smooth linear action and light 45g actuation force, promising effortless and enjoyable typing for casual typists. While the Beer switch excels in providing a tactile experience with a distinct sound signature, the Mannan Pipefish switch prioritizes comfort and precision. 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
38g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Beer and the KTT Mannan Pipefish both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to polycarbonate. Nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Beer and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on the top and bottom housings. The top housing, made of polycarbonate in both cases, will influence the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing will impact the sound and feel when a key is pressed. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience that combines the qualities of both polycarbonate and nylon. However, it is worth noting that the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Beer and Mannan Pipefish leads to a similar sharp, high-pitched sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature clear housings, indicating the use of polycarbonate material. This translucency not only adds a visually appealing element to the switches but also enhances the RGB lighting effects. While the Gateron Beer and the KTT Mannan Pipefish may differ in their bottom housing material, their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing results in a comparable sound profile that is sharp, crisp, and resonant. Overall, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel based on the differences in housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 38 grams compared to the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, which has an actuation force of 37 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Beer requires 50 grams of force, while the Mannan Pipefish needs 45 grams, making the Mannan Pipefish slightly lighter in this aspect. Both switches are relatively light overall, which is ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Users who prefer a softer typing experience may lean towards the Mannan Pipefish, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might prefer the Gateron Beer. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches are minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and performance.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, we can see that the Beer has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Mannan Pipefish has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Beer's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Mannan Pipefish's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfyingly deep keystroke for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference, but ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to whether you prioritize a shorter or longer travel distance for your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a clacky experience with a sharp, snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing intents and purposes. The choice of board and keycaps will also influence the sound output of both switches.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Beer and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches are described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The Beer switch is further noted for its stepped tactility, providing a subtler feel compared to round tactility, while the Mannan Pipefish switch is highlighted for its smooth linear action and a polished finish for a sleek typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch both offer easy-to-press and comfortable typing experiences, with the Beer switch featuring a clacky sound signature and stepped tactility, while the Mannan Pipefish switch provides a more neutral sound profile and a polished finish for smooth key travel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can expect similar results in terms of ease of typing and overall comfort from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams and enjoy a unique switch with stepped tactility, characteristic clacky sound signature, and a design inspired by Tsingtao beer bottles, then the Gateron Beer may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards an even lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams, a smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and polished finish for reduced friction, then the KTT Mannan Pipefish might better suit your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, sound preference, and overall typing experience you wish to achieve.
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