HMX EMO vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, both linear switches offer a smooth typing experience with relatively light actuation and bottom-out forces. The HMX EMO switch is renowned for its lively, clacky feel and feather-light 46g bottom-out force, making it a popular choice for those seeking a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch boasts a smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and a slightly lighter 45g actuation and bottom-out force, appealing to casual typists looking for a strain-free and precise keyboarding journey. While both switches offer unique characteristics and benefits, such as exceptional factory-lubing in the EMO and a comfortable typing experience in the Mannan Pipefish, it's important to dive deeper beyond these generalities to determine which switch best suits your typing preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
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
Polycarbonate
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-stage spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, creating a visually appealing aesthetic. While the polycarbonate top housing of both switches offers similar benefits in sound quality and appearance, they may differ in terms of design and branding.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the HMX EMO and the KTT Mannan Pipefish use nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to the overall typing experience by impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, slight variations in design and construction may affect the typing experience between the two switches.
In summary, while the HMX EMO and the KTT Mannan Pipefish share similarities in their housing materials for both the top and bottom, slight nuances in design and construction may lead to subtle differences in sound profile and typing experience. Both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a clear and resonant sound, as well as nylon for the bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding how each material impacts the overall typing experience can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when choosing between the HMX EMO and the KTT Mannan Pipefish.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the lighter category. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This indicates that the Mannan Pipefish is slightly lighter in both aspects compared to the EMO. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, either of these switches would be a suitable choice. However, if a heavier push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, other options with heavier forces may be more appropriate. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, making it shorter than the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. The EMO offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster input speeds. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX EMO linear switch is not explicitly described in the provided information. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is characterized as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it offers a moderate sound level that is suitable for various settings, making it a versatile option for different users. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Regarding feel, the HMX EMO switch is noted for providing a lively, clacky sensation with a light 46g bottom-out force. The factory-lubed EMO switch offers an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. In contrast, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is described as easy-to-press and polished. This means that it offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate, ultimately reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The polished finish of the Mannan Pipefish switch also ensures a smooth and refined typing experience due to reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a lively and clacky typing experience with a slightly higher bottom-out force, the HMX EMO switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a smooth and easy-to-press switch with a polished finish for a comfortable typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your personal typing style and preferences will dictate which switch is the best fit for your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX EMO linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lively, clacky feel with a light bottom-out force and a bouncy typing experience, the HMX EMO switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer smooth linear action, a lengthened spring, and a comfortable typing experience with minimal force required, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics and benefits, so it's important to choose based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
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