Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the KTT Mannan Pipefish mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is praised for its innovative CAP structure, ensuring smooth keystrokes and minimizing resistance for a buttery and thocky typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch boasts effortless and enjoyable typing with its smooth linear action and light 45g actuation force, perfect for casual typists seeking a comfortable and strain-free keyboarding journey. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the KTT Mannan Pipefish lies in the materials used for their housing. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material composition not only affects the sound produced by the switches but also the overall typing experience for users.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Mannan Pipefish share a nylon material. This commonality means that both switches will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties. While the bottom housing may not be as noticeable in terms of sound compared to the top housing, it still plays a significant role in the overall acoustics of the switch. Ultimately, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a more subdued and rounded sound profile that is distinct from the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate top housing in the Mannan Pipefish.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, the overall typing experience for users may not vary significantly. Both switches utilize nylon in the bottom housing, which leads to a deeper sound profile compared to harder plastics. While the top housing materials differ, with nylon creating a duller sound in the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and polycarbonate producing a crisper sound in the Mannan Pipefish, the impact on the typing feel and sound may not be drastically different for users. Ultimately, whether one prefers a softer, more rounded sound profile or a sharper, crisper sound profile will come down to personal preference when choosing between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in weight. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a medium-heavy actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish is lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for longer periods of typing or gaming. The lighter actuation force of the Mannan Pipefish allows for a smoother and easier typing experience, while the heavier forces of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow provide a more tactile feedback. Both switches have their advantages, with the Gateron switch offering a more robust feel and the KTT switch offering a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance may result in a similar typing experience regardless of which switch is used. Overall, both switches provide a consistent and responsive feel due to their equal travel distances.
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 Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow comes in at $3.10 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 Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch offers a neutral sound profile with moderate actuation force requirements, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience for a seamless typing sensation. In contrast, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is known for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force for activation, making typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as polished, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gateron switch provides a deep and satisfying sound with a buttery typing experience, the KTT switch offers a neutral sound profile with easy-to-press keys and a polished finish for a comfortable typing experience. Depending on your preferences and typing style, you can achieve similar results with either switch, providing a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, stable typing feel with a thocky and bassy sound profile, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a comfortable, precise typing experience with an easy-to-press feel and a neutral sound profile, the Mannan Pipefish switch could be a better fit for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you are seeking.
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