Gateron CJ vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the KTT Mannan Pipefish are two options that offer unique features. The Gateron CJ is a linear switch that stands out for its higher-pitched clacks and incredibly smooth push feel, making typing a delight for users. While categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky', the CJ switch provides a unique and enjoyable presentation of linear switches. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish also belongs to the linear switch category and excels in delivering an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. With its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, the Mannan Pipefish switch ensures comfort and precision while typing. It's an ideal choice for casual typists in search of a strain-free keyboarding journey. Both switches bring their own advantages, but let's delve deeper into their characteristics to help you make the best decision for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron CJ Linear

KTT Mannan Pipefish Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

$3.53

$3.05 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the KTT Mannan Pipefish differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound without being overly sharp. This creates a clacky and satisfying thin sound. In contrast, the Pipefish employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, making it an ideal option for incorporating RGB lighting.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the CJ features a POM bottom housing that contributes to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile. This sound leans towards the deeper end and is relatively more muted. On the other hand, the Pipefish utilizes a nylon bottom housing, a classic material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.

Despite their differences, the role of each housing material remains consistent across both switches. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. However, it is worth noting that if a switch features both different top and bottom housings, the qualities brought by each material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. Therefore, while the CJ and the Pipefish may have varying housing materials, the resulting sound and feel will ultimately be determined by the combination of these materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Mannan Pipefish's lighter actuation force of 37 grams. Similarly, the CJ has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish would be the ideal choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. This can be advantageous for individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it reduces fatigue and allows for a smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the CJ switch offers a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This can be preferred by users who enjoy a stronger push and desire a tactile and satisfying keystroke feedback.

Considering the weight of the switches, it becomes clear that individuals looking for a lighter option should go for the Mannan Pipefish, while those who prefer a heavier switch should opt for the CJ. It's worth noting that while the forces differ between the two switches, both options can provide satisfactory results. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CJ and the KTT Mannan Pipefish will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. In the case of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Gateron CJ and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches offer similar results.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch has a unique chirpy sound, characterized by a little squeak, which sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various intents and purposes. It is important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ provides an impossibly smooth push feel, offering a mild typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. This makes it approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, resulting in an effortless and comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch is polished, offering a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Taking all this information into account, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch provide distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CJ offers a unique chirpy sound and a mild typing experience, while the Mannan Pipefish switch has a more neutral sound profile, an easy-to-press feel, and a polished finish. These differences provide users with options depending on their preferred sound and typing experience. However, it is important to remember that individual preferences can vary, and the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall experience. Overall, both switches offer enjoyable and comfortable typing experiences, albeit with different characteristics.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are seeking a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron CJ would be a great choice for you. With its higher-pitched clacks and impossibly smooth push feel, it provides a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize effortless and enjoyable typing with a light bottom out force, the KTT Mannan Pipefish would be the ideal option. Its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force offer a comfortable and precise typing experience. Perfect for casual typists, the Mannan Pipefish switch provides a strain-free and delightful keyboarding journey. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more

KTT Mannan Pipefish Linear

$3.53

$3.05 per 10

Learn more