Keygeek Briny vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Briny and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, both linear switches, offer unique experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Briny, with its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, is renowned for its balanced sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a harmonious auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish shines with its effortless linear action and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, providing a smooth, comfortable feel that caters to casual typists looking for a delightful and strain-free typing journey. While both switches deliver a linear feel, the choice ultimately hinges on your priorities—be it the balanced acoustics of the Briny or the ease of use offered by the Pipefish. 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
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, notable differences can be observed in their top housings. The Briny utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is known for delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This softness allows nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience that contrasts sharply with the KTT Mannan Pipefish's polycarbonate top housing. The stiff and clear polycarbonate contributes to a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile, as it enhances resonance and clarity. Consequently, the choice of material for the top housing plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound characteristics of each switch, demonstrating how the different properties of nylon and polycarbonate lead to distinct auditory experiences.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Keygeek Briny and the KTT Mannan Pipefish use nylon, unifying their sound profiles in this aspect. The consistent use of nylon for the bottom housings means that both switches will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as nylon's sound-absorbing qualities dominate the bottom-out sound. This similarity suggests that while the top housings diverge in terms of material, the fundamental auditory and tactile sensations during the actuation of each switch will be somewhat comparable due to the consistent material choice in the bottom housings. Users can expect a similar bottom-out feel, contributing to an overall enjoyable typing experience despite the differing characteristics of the top materials.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings influences the sound profiles and user experiences of the Keygeek Briny and KTT Mannan Pipefish switches in unique ways. While the nylon top housing of the Briny lends a fuller sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Mannan Pipefish offers a brighter auditory experience. The nylon bottom housings create a common ground for both switches, ensuring that the broader typing experience feels cohesive. Therefore, while there are significant contrasts in the top housing materials, the combination of nylon in the bottom works to create a distinctive yet shared sound profile that users of either switch can appreciate, thereby illustrating how diverse materials can yield varied results while maintaining an element of consistency.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight their intended user experiences. The Briny features a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some typists and gamers may prefer for a more tactile experience. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who favor a gentler touch that allows for extended typing sessions without fatigue. Thus, the Briny switch is the heavier option overall, while the Mannan Pipefish is the lighter choice. This variance means that typists looking for a softer keystroke will achieve better results with the Pipefish, whereas those who enjoy a firmer push would benefit from the Briny.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there is a noticeable difference: the Briny has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mannan Pipefish features a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that pressing down on the Briny will give a slightly quicker response due to its shorter distance, making it potentially more suitable for gamers who prioritize speed and quick key activation. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish offers a fuller keystroke experience with its longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial depth and tactile feedback when typing. Therefore, if you lean towards a responsive and brisk interaction, the Keygeek Briny would be the better choice, while the KTT Mannan Pipefish would cater to those who enjoy a deeper and more deliberate feel in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Briny has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Briny for $3.29.
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 Keygeek Briny linear switch is recognized for its balanced sound profile, which provides a satisfying and consistent auditory experience without being overly loud or distracting. This quality makes it suitable for both casual and professional settings, aligning well with the preferences of users who desire a refined ambiance while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch has a neutral sound profile characterized by moderate actuation force requirements. This neutrality allows it to excel in versatile environments, whether at home or in the office, catering well to a wide range of typists from novices to seasoned pros. While both switches offer pleasant auditory experiences, the Briny's balanced tone might appeal to users seeking a bit more richness, whereas the Mannan Pipefish's neutrality could be considered more universal.
When it comes to feel, the Keygeek Briny switch lacks specific descriptions, leaving its tactile characteristics somewhat open to interpretation. In contrast, the KTT Mannan Pipefish is celebrated for its easy-to-press action, which reduces the effort required for activation. Users will appreciate the low actuation force of 45g, promoting a smooth, strain-free experience during typing that minimizes finger fatigue over long sessions. Furthermore, the polished nature of the Mannan Pipefish enhances its overall tactile feedback, allowing for fluid key travel due to reduced friction. While the exact feel of the Briny is undisclosed, it’s likely to differ in responsiveness and smoothness compared to the highly refined and effortless mechanics of the Mannan Pipefish.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Briny and KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches deliver distinct advantages depending on the user's preferences. The Briny offers a balanced sound profile that may cater to those seeking a more rich auditory experience, while the Mannan Pipefish excels in its neutral sound, making it adaptable for various environments. Feel-wise, the Briny’s characteristics remain undefined, but the Mannan Pipefish’s low resistance and polished finish provide a smooth, comfortable typing experience. Overall, if sound and a light, effortless feel are priorities in your search for a mechanical switch, the Mannan Pipefish presents a compelling case, while the Briny may still offer satisfaction for those who prioritize sound quality in their setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and habits. If you prefer a medium actuation force and appreciate a balanced sound profile, the Briny might be the better option for you. This switch caters to users who enjoy a solid typing experience without being overly heavy, making it suitable for both casual use and focused work. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter feel and effortless typing, the Mannan Pipefish is designed specifically for that purpose. With its low actuation force of 45 grams, it promotes a strain-free typing journey, ideal for long hours at the keyboard. Not only is it easy to press, but its polished finish ensures a smooth and satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, choose the Briny for a more balanced feel and sound, while the Pipefish is perfect for those who prioritize comfort and ease of use.
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