HMX Cheese vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and KTT Mannan Pipefish offer distinctive features that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and satisfying sound signature, making it a top choice for those who value a light and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish is known for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience, with a smooth linear action and light actuation force perfect for casual typists. While the Cheese excels in providing a unique tactile feel, the Mannan Pipefish stands out for its comfortable and precise 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
43g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, the primary difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Cheese features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties, which absorb more sound. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately depends on the desired sound profile and aesthetics, with polycarbonate being more suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Cheese and Mannan Pipefish are both made of nylon, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic properties contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile compared to harder plastics. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, typists can expect a consistent sound experience when bottoming out keys. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound and feel of the switch should not be overlooked, as it plays a crucial role in the typist's tactile experience.
Although the Cheese and Mannan Pipefish differ in their choice of top housing material, the bottom housing being composed of nylon in both switches ensures a level of consistency in sound profile when typing. While the Cheese offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon top housing, the Mannan Pipefish provides a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing. Typists who prioritize a specific sound profile or aesthetic considerations may lean towards one switch over the other based on the top housing material used. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience, with each material offering distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch which has a lower actuation force of 37 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cheese requires 46 grams while the Mannan Pipefish requires 45 grams. Both switches are relatively light in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Lighter switches like the Mannan Pipefish may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, allowing for less finger fatigue. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Cheese may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for the level of force and feedback desired in a keyboard switch.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch. The Cheese switch will provide a quicker response time, making it a popular choice for gamers in need of fast reactions. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, but the Cheese switch is shorter while the Mannan Pipefish is longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in regards to key press depth and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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 HMX Cheese switch is best known for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which adds a tactile element to typing. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for various typing environments. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in determining which sound profile is more appealing to individual users.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, providing a unique tactile sensation that few other switches can replicate. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate, making it ideal for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, its polished finish ensures a smooth and refined typing experience, enhancing overall comfort and precision.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese and KTT Mannan Pipefish switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Cheese switch excels in providing a tactile typing experience with a satisfying sound profile, while the Mannan Pipefish switch prioritizes ease of use and comfort, making it a great choice for casual typists. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches offer high-quality performance and can deliver satisfying results depending on the user's needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Cheese linear switch or the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you value an ultra-light switch with a satisfying clacky sound signature and unparalleled smoothness, the HMX Cheese switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a smooth linear action, light actuation force, and comfortable typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is ideal for casual typists seeking a strain-free keyboarding journey. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it is important to consider your typing needs and preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on what aspects of typing experience are most important to you.
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