Kailh Box White vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are various options to choose from, each offering unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. Two popular switches that stand out are the Kailh Box White, a clicky switch, and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, a linear switch. The Box White switch is sought after by those who crave maximum audio feedback, as it emits a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch with every keypress. Its distinct tactility adds an extra layer of precision when typing. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch is perfect for those who prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience. Its linear action, lengthened spring, and lightweight actuation force of 45g allow for a strain-free and accurate typing journey. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the KTT Mannan Pipefish have several similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housings also allows for the switches to have a translucent appearance, making them a great choice for those who plan to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup. With this shared characteristic, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic qualities from both the Kailh Box White and the KTT Mannan Pipefish.
However, there is a notable difference in the bottom housing material of these switches. The Box White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Mannan Pipefish also features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a slightly different auditory experience when using the Kailh Box White in comparison to the KTT Mannan Pipefish due to the unique qualities brought by their respective bottom housings.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials of a switch play different roles in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both the Kailh Box White and the KTT Mannan Pipefish will deliver satisfying typing experiences, albeit with subtle variations in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. This means that the Mannan Pipefish requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing.
In terms of bottom out force, the Box White requires 60 grams of force to fully press the key down, whereas the Mannan Pipefish has a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Box White provides a more substantial typing experience, as it requires a heavier push feel. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish is lighter in this regard, allowing for a smoother and potentially faster typing experience.
For those who prefer a lighter keyboard that enables them to type for longer periods of time, the Mannan Pipefish with its lighter actuation and bottom out force may be the preferred choice. However, for those who enjoy a more tactile and substantial typing experience, the Box White with its slightly heavier forces may be the better option.
In conclusion, while both switches have their own unique characteristics, with the Box White being slightly heavier and the Mannan Pipefish being lighter, they cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch are different. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm distance. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish has a travel distance of 4 mm, which falls within the more traditional range. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance offered by the Box White. The shorter distance allows for quicker key presses, resulting in a more responsive gaming experience. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt. For those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke, the Mannan Pipefish with its longer travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 White comes in at $2.76 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 White clicky switch offers a resonant and high-pitched auditory experience. Typing on these switches produces a clean and sharp sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound and actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White is known for its polished and refined typing experience. This switch provides a smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers an easy-to-press experience. Typing on these switches requires minimal force to activate, resulting in a low-impact and effortless typing experience. Similar to the Box White, the Mannan Pipefish also has a polished finish, contributing to its sleek typing feel.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Box White excels in providing maximum audio feedback with its resonant and high-pitched sound profile. It also offers a polished and refined typing experience, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish provides an effortless and enjoyable typing experience with its easy-to-press action, light actuation force, and polished finish. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Box White aimed towards those seeking an immersive auditory experience and the Mannan Pipefish suited for individuals looking for strain-free and comfortable typing. Depending on personal preference and intended use, one can choose either of these switches to achieve the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value maximum audio feedback and a tactile typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the ideal choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, you will feel an accented tactility and hear a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch when typing on these switches. Additionally, the Box White switch offers a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, providing you with an immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is the way to go. With a light bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches offer a comfortable and strain-free keyboarding journey. The Mannan Pipefish switch features a smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and easy-to-press key presses, making typing effortless and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch depends on your preferences for audio feedback, tactile typing experience, and typing effort. Consider whether you prefer a clicky switch with maximum audio feedback and medium actuation force, or a linear switch with smooth key presses and a light actuation force. By considering these factors, you can select the switch that best suits your typing style and enhances your overall typing experience.
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