Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Mannan Pipefish mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, you are presented with two exceptional options. The CAP Anniversary switch stands out for its innovative CAP structure, which results in remarkably smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers effortless typing with its smooth linear action and light actuation force. While the CAP Anniversary is known for its snappy and creamy feel, the Mannan Pipefish provides an easy-to-press and neutral typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Mannan Pipefish use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for being a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same material for their top housing, the design and construction may vary, leading to subtle differences in sound and feel.
On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Mannan Pipefish also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing impacts the overall typing experience, influencing the sound and feel of the switches when pressed down on.
In conclusion, while both switches share similarities in their housing materials, such as utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing and nylon for their bottom housing, the design and construction of each switch can lead to subtle differences in sound and feel. The choice of housing materials plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience, with the top housing influencing the sound when keys are released and the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials contribute to the unique characteristics of each switch.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mannan Pipefish, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out, making it easier on the fingers during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the CAP Anniversary may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Mannan Pipefish being lighter and the CAP Anniversary being heavier, catering to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent and identical travel distance from the top to the bottom of the keystroke. This similarity ensures that typing or gaming experiences with both switches will result in similar tactile feedback and overall feel. The equal travel distance of 4mm for both switches indicates that users can expect a consistent keystroke experience regardless of the switch chosen for their keyboard setup.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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 Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is known for its unique CAP structure that results in exceptionally smooth keystrokes, which can contribute to a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. However, the actual sound produced by these switches can vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is known for its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering a responsive and smooth feel, akin to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. This is achieved through the switch's design and materials, providing a polished typing experience. Similarly, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch provides an easy-to-press and polished feel, requiring minimal force to activate keys and offering a smooth and refined typing experience. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a comfortable and precise feel to users.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches offer unique qualities that make them stand out in the mechanical keyboard community. While the CAP Anniversary excels in providing a snappy and creamy typing experience with its innovative CAP structure, the Mannan Pipefish offers an easy-to-press and polished feel that enhances typing comfort. Depending on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience, users can expect satisfying results from either of these switches, ensuring a delightful keyboarding journey for casual typists and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a switch with a unique CAP structure that provides exceptionally smooth keystrokes and stability with minimal wobble, then the CAP Anniversary may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and value a smooth linear action, a lengthened spring, and a light actuation force for a comfortable and precise typing experience, then the Mannan Pipefish switch might be more suited to your needs. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and requirements. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
