Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to look at are the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, a linear switch. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is celebrated for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, smoothness, and tactile sensation, making it ideal for those who enjoy an audible feedback coupled with a creamy feel. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish offers effortless and enjoyable typing experience with its smooth linear action, light actuation force, and comfortable feel, catering to casual typists seeking a strain-free keyboarding journey. Each switch brings its unique characteristics to the table, providing users with options based on their preference. 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Mannan Pipefish utilize polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in these housings is beneficial for those looking to incorporate RGB lighting into their keyboard setup due to its translucency. This material is known for its stiffness, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in both switches offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches sharing the same housing materials, the distribution of these materials differs between the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Mannan Pipefish. In switches where the top and bottom housings vary, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When typing on these switches, the bottom housing's impact is felt in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distribution can affect the overall typing experience and sound output of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Mannan Pipefish may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Both switches offer distinct qualities based on their housing materials, with polycarbonate providing a sharper and crisper sound, while nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether you prioritize a clear and resonant sound or a duller and rounder tone, the selection of housing materials in these switches can significantly impact your typing experience and overall satisfaction with your keyboard setup.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch which has an actuation force of 37 grams, making the Mannan Pipefish the lighter option. In terms of bottom out force, the V3 Cream Blue Pro requires 55 grams while the Mannan Pipefish only requires 45 grams, making the Mannan Pipefish again the lighter option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Mannan Pipefish would be the more suitable choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for the actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Mannan Pipefish's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer more depth. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for speed and tactility.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is known for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, offering a lively and audible feedback that is harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming yet not scratchy. The keys have a lively and spring-like feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. In comparison, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is known for being easy-to-press and polished, offering gentle resistance during key presses with a light actuation force for effortless and comfortable typing. Both switches provide a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and enhancing the overall typing feel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch excels in providing a distinct and lively sound profile paired with a creamy, tactile sensation, making it a great option for users who appreciate audible feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers a comfortable and precise typing experience with its smooth linear action and light actuation force, perfect for casual typists seeking a strain-free keyboarding journey. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you enjoy a tactile and clicky typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear action with a light bottom out force for effortless typing, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches are the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to your personal typing style and the feel and sound profile you prefer.
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