Kailh Box Navy vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that delivers a heavy typing experience with the nostalgic sound signature and tactility of a clicky switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are an excellent choice for you. These switches offer a satisfying heftiness and a sound reminiscent of the vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more effortless typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch might be perfect for you. With its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, it provides a comfortable and precise typing journey. It is particularly suited for casual typists seeking a strain-free keyboarding experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best decision regarding the ideal switch for your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
90g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Mannan Pipefish share similar housing materials for both their top and bottom housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate also allows for the switches to have a clear housing, making them ideal for RGB lighting. This means that whether you choose the Box Navy or the Mannan Pipefish, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics due to the shared polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box Navy and the Mannan Pipefish utilize nylon. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that typing on switches with nylon bottom housing will create a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. With both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
Although the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall switch performance, the distinction between the Box Navy and the Mannan Pipefish lies primarily in their respective top housings. While they both share polycarbonate for the top housing, these switches may have variation in their overall design and construction, which can potentially impact the sound and feel of the keys. However, when compared solely on the basis of housing materials, users can anticipate similar results in terms of sound profile and typing experience between the Kailh Box Navy and the KTT Mannan Pipefish.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is evident that they have significant differences. The Box Navy switch has a relatively heavy actuation force of 60 grams, meaning it requires a substantial amount of force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, allowing for a smoother and easier keystroke initiation.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box Navy switch boasts a considerable weight of 90 grams, ensuring a more substantial typing experience when pressing keys all the way down. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a comparatively lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, resulting in a softer and less forceful bottoming out sensation.
Considering weight preferences, those who value a lighter typing experience over extended periods may find the Mannan Pipefish switch more suitable, as its lighter actuation and bottom out forces enable longer typing sessions without strain. Conversely, individuals seeking a more solid and robust typing feedback may be inclined towards the heavier actuation and bottom out forces offered by the Box Navy switch.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. While the Box Navy switch leans towards a heavier and more substantial feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch provides a lighter and smoother typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mannan Pipefish has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Mannan Pipefish being slightly longer.
For those who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Box Navy may be preferred. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for quicker reactions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming might opt for the Mannan Pipefish with its longer travel distance.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference. Some may appreciate the immediate feedback and responsiveness provided by the shorter travel distance, while others may enjoy the deeper keystrokes of the switch with the longer travel distance. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer distinct experiences for users to explore.
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 Navy comes in at $5.50 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 Navy clicky switch is best known for its heavy typing experience and vintage sound signature reminiscent of 80s buckling keyboards. When typing on this switch, you can expect a resonant and crunchy sound profile, resembling the sound of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. The strong and crisp tactile bump of the Box Navy provides a sharp and invigorating feel, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out. This switch offers pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation.
On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch provides an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. With a smooth linear action and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, this switch offers a comfortable and precise typing experience. The Mannan Pipefish switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It also has a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. This switch is perfect for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offer contrasting subjective qualities. The Box Navy provides a heavy and vintage typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound profile, along with a sharp and invigorating feel. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers an effortless and precise typing experience, with a light actuation force and a polished, low-impact feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience with a vintage feel and enjoy the sound and tactility of clicky switches, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. Their 90 gram bottom out force provides a satisfyingly heavy typing experience reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. The resonant and crunchy sound profile adds to the immersive auditory experience while typing. Additionally, the sharp and invigorating tactile feedback creates a snappy and reactive feel, making each keypress distinctive.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and effortless typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches are the ideal choice. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches offer a comfortable and strain-free keyboarding journey. The smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light actuation force provide a precise and low-impact typing experience. The easy-to-press nature of these switches reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Moreover, the polished finish ensures smooth key travel and minimal friction, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy heavy and tactile switches with a vintage feel, the Box Navy is a perfect match. However, if you prefer a lighter and effortless typing experience with smooth and polished key travel, the Mannan Pipefish is the way to go. Consider your typing needs and preferences when selecting the switch that best suits you.
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