Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a plethora of options to consider. Two switches that stand out in the market are the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Mannan Pipefish. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch known for its crunchy feel and subdued sound profile. If you enjoy the tactile satisfaction of a clicky switch but prefer a quieter typing experience, this switch is for you. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish is a linear switch that offers effortless and enjoyable typing. With its smooth linear action, light actuation and bottom-out force, and lengthened spring, it provides a comfortable and precise typing experience. Designed for casual typists seeking a strain-free journey, this switch is perfect for those who prioritize comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
75g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Mannan Pipefish both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to the clear and resonant sound output, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a more defined typing experience. Additionally, its translucency allows for RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing aspect to the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic outcomes from the top housing of both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Mannan Pipefish differ in their choice of material. The Box Mute Jade features a nylon bottom housing, while the Mannan Pipefish also utilizes nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound output. Therefore, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel when pressing down on these switches, providing a unique typing experience for each switch.
In summary, while both the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the KTT Mannan Pipefish share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, they offer slightly different experiences due to their choice of bottom housing materials. Users can expect a consistent sharper and crisper sound profile, as well as the option for RGB lighting, with the polycarbonate top housing of either switch. However, the use of nylon as the bottom housing material provides distinct variations in sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade's nylon bottom housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing offers a slightly duller and rounder sound output.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are notable differences. The Box Mute Jade has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch.
For those who value a lighter weight switch, the Mannan Pipefish would be a suitable choice as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This would particularly benefit individuals using the keyboard for work purposes or extended gaming sessions. However, if a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience are preferred, the Box Mute Jade's heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide that satisfying tactile feedback.
While the force requirements differ between the two switches, it is important to note that they both offer distinct advantages. It is necessary for individuals to determine their personal preference regarding typing experiences and choose accordingly. Ultimately, the actuation force and bottom out force of each switch play crucial roles in providing a satisfying and ergonomic typing experience for different users' needs.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, we can see that the Box Mute Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mannan Pipefish has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Box Mute Jade falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, which is often preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers a slightly deeper travel distance, providing a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference. If you prioritize a quicker and more responsive typing experience, the Box Mute Jade would be the better option. However, if you prefer a more substantial and weighted feel, the Mannan Pipefish with its longer travel distance would be a suitable choice. Both switches offer their own advantages, so it is important to consider individual preferences when deciding which one to choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50 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
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is best known for providing a unique combination of both a tactile bump and a quieter clicky sound. The sound profile of these switches can be described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Users will feel a slight bump when pressing the keys, resulting in a satisfying tactile feedback. However, the sound produced is more subdued compared to traditional clicky switches. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy the tactile experience of a clicky switch but prefer a quieter typing environment.
On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers a completely different typing experience. With a smooth linear action, these switches provide effortless and enjoyable typing. The extended spring and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force contribute to a comfortable and precise typing experience. As a linear switch, the Mannan Pipefish does not feature a tactile bump, making it suitable for those who prefer a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. These switches are particularly well-suited for casual typists who seek a strain-free and delightful keyboarding journey.
When it comes to sound, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch offers a unique crunchiness that is associated with clicky switches. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it falls in the middle ground in terms of sound, neither overly loud nor excessively quiet. It should be noted that the sound produced by these switches can vary depending on factors such as the chosen keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch provides an accented tactile experience. This means that it offers a medium amount of tactility, providing a satisfying feedback without being overpowering or too subtle. These switches also have a stiffer actuation and bottom-out force, requiring users to apply more force when pressing the keys. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade clicky switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that promotes a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers an easy-to-press experience. With gentle resistance during key presses, minimal force is required to activate these switches. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Similar to the Box Mute Jade clicky switch, the Mannan Pipefish also features a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Mute Jade provides a crunchy and subdued clicky sound, along with an accented and polished feel. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers a neutral sound profile, an easy-to-press experience, and a polished feel. These switches cater to different preferences, with the Box Mute Jade being suitable for those who enjoy a tactile clicky experience with a quieter sound, while the Mannan Pipefish is ideal for users seeking a smooth and effortless typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a heavy switch with a distinct clicky sound but without the loudness typically associated with clicky switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade is the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a slight bump and a quieter clicky sound, providing a unique and satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the Box Mute Jade is described as having an accented, stiff, and polished feel, resulting in a tactile but smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is perfect for you. With its smooth linear action, light actuation force, and easy-to-press nature, these switches offer comfortable and precise typing with minimal finger fatigue. Furthermore, the Mannan Pipefish switch is also described as having a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel for an enhanced typing experience.
Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch depends on your preferences for weight, sound, and feel. Consider whether you prefer a heavy or light switch, a distinct or neutral sound profile, and a tactile or low-impact typing feel. By carefully considering these factors, you can select the switch that best suits your typing style and enhances your overall keyboarding journey.
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