Outemu Crystal vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, both of which are linear switches. The Crystal is known for its unique, linear typing experience, offering a fairly elastic feel and a medium-light weight. This switch also provides a neutral sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch is praised for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience. With its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, it guarantees a comfortable and precise typing journey. This switch is perfect for casual typists seeking a strain-free keyboarding experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs perfectly.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Mannan Pipefish have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be showcased effectively. Therefore, in terms of sound and aesthetics, the top housing of both switches will provide similar results.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ. The Crystal uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, while the Mannan Pipefish incorporates nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal maintains the same qualities as the top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile during bottom-out. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Mannan Pipefish offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches will differ based on the material used for the bottom housing.
Overall, the housing materials of both switches play a significant role in determining the sound produced. While the top housing made of polycarbonate offers similar qualities in terms of sound and aesthetics, the bottom housing varies between the two. The Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a consistent sharper sound profile, whereas the Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. The choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is evident that they have different force profiles. The Outemu Crystal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which falls within the medium-light range. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, classifying it as a light switch.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the KTT Mannan Pipefish, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces provide a smoother and less fatiguing typing experience over extended periods. This would be ideal for individuals who use their keyboards for long work hours or intense gaming sessions. On the contrary, for those who prefer a more substantial push feel and enjoy a stronger tactile feedback, the Outemu Crystal with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces would be a suitable choice.
While the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Mannan Pipefish differ, it is important to note that the similarities between these switches can still yield comparable results. Both switches offer a linear switch type, meaning the keystrokes are smooth and consistent, without any tactile bump or click. Therefore, individuals seeking a linear switch experience can achieve it with either switch, with the slight variation in force providing a personalized touch based on their preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch are both 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, the results in terms of travel distance will be similar for both switches. It is noteworthy that both switches have an equal travel distance, offering a consistent typing experience for users.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel.
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal switch is known for its chirpy and high-pitched characteristics. This means that when pressed, these switches produce a distinct and sharp sound, giving them a unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a neutral sound profile. It doesn't have any specific descriptors or qualities, but it is known to have a moderate and versatile sound that suits various environments, whether at home or in the office. It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Crystal switch is described as having a fairly elastic type feel with a medium-light weight. This combination provides a unique linear typing experience that can be enjoyable for many users. Additionally, these switches are also polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish. This helps reduce friction and ensures smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
The KTT Mannan Pipefish switch, on the other hand, is known for its easy-to-press characteristic. These switches offer gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Similar to the Outemu Crystal switch, the Mannan Pipefish switch is also described as polished, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal and KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Crystal switch offers a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, while the Mannan Pipefish switch has a neutral sound. In terms of feel, both switches are polished, providing a smooth typing experience. While they have their differences, users can expect a comfortable and precise typing experience from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, if you're looking for a unique and medium-light linear typing experience, the Outemu Crystal switches are the way to go. With their fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight, these switches offer a distinct and satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the neutral sound profile of the Crystal switches ensures that your typing won't be too loud or distracting.
On the other hand, if you prioritize effortless and strain-free typing, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches are the better choice for you. With their smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, these switches provide a comfortable and precise typing experience. The easy-to-press nature of the Mannan Pipefish switches reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions and enhances the overall typing experience.
Both switches also offer a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes typing a sleek and enjoyable experience for both the Crystal and Mannan Pipefish switches.
In summary, the Outemu Crystal switches are ideal if you're seeking a unique typing experience with a medium-light weight and neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches are perfect for casual typists who prioritize effortless and comfortable typing with a light actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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