Kailh Box Royal vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Mannan Pipefish. These switches offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Box Royal is renowned for its intense tactility, making it a great choice for those seeking a nearly aggressive tactile experience. With a sharp, binary tactility and a higher-pitched sound profile, these switches add a satisfying feedback to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers a smooth linear action that allows for effortless and enjoyable typing. With a lengthened spring and a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, these switches provide a comfortable and precise typing experience. This makes them an excellent option for casual typists seeking a strain-free and delightful keyboarding journey. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Mannan Pipefish differ in terms of the materials used. The Box Royal uses a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing is advantageous for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Box Royal and the Mannan Pipefish utilize nylon. This material choice is based on the fact that nylon is a classic switch housing material that enhances the sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller sound. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Therefore, while the top housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Mannan Pipefish differ, they both share nylon as the material choice for the bottom housing. The qualities brought by the bottom housing material, such as a deeper and fuller sound profile, will be common in both switches. However, the top housing material will have a significant impact on the sound when pressing and releasing the keys. The nylon top housing of the Box Royal creates a softer and more absorbent sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Mannan Pipefish produces a crisper and more resonant sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are notable differences. The Box Royal has a higher actuation force of 45 grams, requiring a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box Royal has a heavier force of 70 grams. This means that when pressing the key all the way down, there is a more substantial and satisfying typing experience due to the increased resistance. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, resulting in a slightly softer and lighter feel when fully pressing down the key.
Considering the weight aspect, the Box Royal can be considered heavier in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. This weight might be preferred by individuals who enjoy a stronger and more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer typing for longer periods or have a preference for lighter switches may find the Mannan Pipefish with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces more suitable for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions, respectively.
In summary, while both switches have their own unique characteristics, the Kailh Box Royal offers a heavier and more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish provides a lighter and softer feel, allowing for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mannan Pipefish has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mannan Pipefish has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Royal.
When it comes to travel distance, 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become prevalent, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. If you are looking for a more responsive switch, the Kailh Box Royal with its shorter travel distance could be the better choice.
On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt. If you prefer a more satisfying typing experience with a deeper key press, then the KTT Mannan Pipefish with its longer travel distance might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference and typing style.
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 Royal comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Royal switch has a high-pitched profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This type of sound is ideal for those who prefer a more intense and distinct auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch has a neutral sound profile. It falls in the middle ground, offering a moderate sound that suits various purposes and preferences. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch is known for its sharp tactility. The tactile bump in these switches is quite prominent, providing a high intensity of feedback with each keypress. This makes them perfect for individuals who enjoy a strong and crisp tactile experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch offers an easy-to-press feel. These switches require minimal force to activate, ensuring effortless typing and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch differ in their subjective qualities. The Box Royals excel in their aggressive and sharp tactility, as well as their higher pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switches are designed to provide a comfortable and strain-free typing experience with their easy-to-press feel and polished finish. Choosing between these switches would depend on personal preferences for tactility, sound, and typing experience. If you enjoy a strong tactile feedback and a sharp sound, the Box Royals will be more suitable. However, if you prefer an effortless and comfortable typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish switches would be a great choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're someone who craves a strong and sharp tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a nearly aggressive tactility, making each keypress feel distinct and prominent. Additionally, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile, the Box Royal's sound signature would be a great fit.
Alternatively, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is the way to go. With its easy-to-press nature and light actuation force of 45 grams, typing becomes strain-free and enjoyable. These switches are especially suitable for casual typists seeking a comfortable and precise keyboarding journey.
In terms of sound, the Box Royal produces a high-pitched and crisp sound, while the Mannan Pipefish offers a more neutral sound profile, which falls in between the rich and bassy sounds of other switches.
In terms of feel, the Box Royal delivers a sharp and intense tactile bump, providing a highly feedback-intensive typing experience. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers an easy-to-press sensation with its polished and smooth finish, resulting in a low-impact and responsive typing feel.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for tactility and typing experience. Consider whether you value aggressive tactility and a higher-pitched sound (Box Royal) or smooth and effortless typing with a neutral sound (Mannan Pipefish). Whichever you choose, both switches offer their own unique advantages and can enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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