Durock Daybreak vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Daybreak and KTT Mannan Pipefish mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that they both offer unique qualities suited for different preferences. The Daybreak is favored for its sturdy 67g weight, ensuring a substantial typing experience, while also maintaining a quiet operation ideal for various environments. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish stands out with its smooth linear action and light 45g actuation force, providing a comfortable and precise typing experience for casual typists. While the Daybreak is more suitable for those who prefer a heavier touch and muted sound, the Mannan Pipefish is perfect for individuals seeking an effortless and strain-free typing journey. 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
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Mannan Pipefish utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, creating a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. However, while the top housings are the same material, the bottom housings differ.
In terms of bottom housings, both switches use nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing material gives each switch its unique typing experience, with the Daybreak and the Mannan Pipefish each having their own distinct feel and sound when pressed.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in the sound and feel of typing. While the Durock Daybreak and the KTT Mannan Pipefish both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings and nylon for their bottom housings, the unique qualities of each material contribute to a different typing experience for each switch. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound profile, the choice between the Daybreak and the Mannan Pipefish ultimately comes down to personal preference based on the housing materials used.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is evident that they offer different typing experiences. The Daybreak has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Mannan Pipefish is lighter with a bottom out force of 45 grams. The actuation force of the Daybreak is unknown, whereas the Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams. This means that the Mannan Pipefish requires less force to register a keystroke compared to the Daybreak. The lighter actuation force of the Mannan Pipefish makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing, while the heavier bottom out force of the Daybreak caters to individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The Durock Daybreak linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, slightly shorter than the 4mm travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum in terms of travel distance, making them ideal choices for those seeking quicker response times. However, if you prefer a slightly more substantial key press, you may lean towards the Mannan Pipefish with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel each individual is looking for in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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 Durock Daybreak linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it ideal for those looking for a quieter switch option. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. While the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, the Daybreak and Mannan Pipefish switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Daybreak switch is known for its polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined typing movements with reduced friction. Conversely, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and minimal force required for activation. Additionally, both switches are noted for their polished finish, contributing to a sleek and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a smoother key travel with the Daybreak or a light and effortless typing feel with the Mannan Pipefish, both switches provide unique tactile sensations for an enhanced typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Daybreak provides a heavier actuation force and muted, low-pitched sound, along with a polished feel for smooth key travel, the Mannan Pipefish offers a lighter actuation force, neutral sound profile, and easy-to-press sensation for effortless typing. Depending on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches cater to different user needs and can enhance your overall keyboarding journey. Ultimately, whether you choose the Daybreak or Mannan Pipefish, you can expect a high-quality, linear switch that delivers reliable performance and a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Daybreak linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier touch and a quieter operation, the Daybreak with its 67g bottom out force might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a smoother typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish with its 45g bottom out force may be more suitable. Additionally, if you prioritize a more muted and low-pitched sound profile, the Daybreak could be ideal, whereas the Mannan Pipefish offers a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
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