HMX EVA vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often hinges on the feel and sound when typing. The HMX EVA switch stands out with its vibrant design inspired by the renowned Evangelion Unit-01, offering a distinct resonant sound signature combined with a remarkably smooth typing experience. This switch is perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate both aesthetics and a unique auditory feedback while working or gaming. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish excels in providing an effortless typing experience, characterized by its long spring and light 45g actuation force. This switch is designed for casual typists seeking a polished, strain-free experience without sacrificing performance. While both linear switches promise a seamless feel, they cater to different preferences—one offers an artistic flair and rich sound, while the other champions comfort and ease of use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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
The housing materials of the HMX EVA and the KTT Mannan Pipefish exhibit a notable contrast, particularly in their top housing compositions. The EVA boasts a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer texture. Nylon effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In comparison, the KTT Mannan Pipefish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer material that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, providing clarity and resonance during typing. This fundamental difference in material choice suggests that users may experience distinct aural characteristics when using these switches, with the EVA favoring warmth and depth while the Mannan Pipefish leans towards brightness and clarity.
In contrast, both the HMX EVA and KTT Mannan Pipefish share a commonality in their bottom housing materials, with both employing nylon. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile that persists across both products. This uniformity in material allows for a more rounded auditory experience no matter which switch is used, even though the typing experience may still feel different due to the contrasting top housing materials. The bottom housing's properties remain critical as they significantly impact the bottom-out sound and feel, leading to a more muted and warm sound signature in both switches, regardless of the top housing’s influence.
While the differences in top housing materials introduce varying sound profiles to the switches, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both the EVA and Mannan Pipefish retain a similar base auditory quality. When typing on either switch, users will appreciate the plush sound and feedback generated by the nylon, while the top housing ultimately determines the final tonal output—duller and rounder for the EVA, and sharper and crisper for the Mannan Pipefish. This interplay between different materials highlights how switch design intricacies can lead to unique experiences, even when certain elements remain constant. Therefore, while the result might be similar in terms of the fundamental sound profile from the nylon bottom housing, the overall auditory and tactile experience remains distinctly different due to the choice of top materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a softer typing experience. The EVA has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Therefore, the Mannan Pipefish is the lighter option between the two. If users prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, they might find the KTT Mannan Pipefish more comfortable, as it requires less effort to register keystrokes. Despite both switches being on the lighter side, the EVA provides a slightly heavier feel, appealing to those who prefer a sense of substance in their typing experience. Overall, while both switches deliver relatively similar results in terms of keystroke feel, the Mannan Pipefish offers a notably lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it's clear that the EVA features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mannan Pipefish offers a slightly longer distance of 4 mm. This difference indicates that the EVA switch is the shorter option, appealing to users who favor quicker response times, like gamers. The Mannan Pipefish, with its longer travel distance, may suit those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing keys, as longer distances can provide a more satisfying depth. Ultimately, if you value responsiveness, the EVA switch would be the better choice, while the Mannan Pipefish may be more satisfying for users who appreciate a deeper key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX EVA has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EVA for $2.99.
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
The sound signature of the HMX EVA linear switch is resonant, providing a distinct auditory experience that stands out without being overly loud. In contrast, the KTT Mannan Pipefish has a neutral sound profile, characterized by a moderate level of sound that fits well in various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. While the EVA’s resonance adds a unique flair to the typing experience, the Pipefish’s neutrality ensures it is versatile and unobtrusive, making it suitable for both casual and serious typists. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by the keyboard they are mounted on and the materials of the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EVA offers a silky smooth typing experience, which many users find particularly enjoyable. This smoothness can make typing feel effortless, as there is minimal resistance during key presses. The KTT Mannan Pipefish, on the other hand, boasts an easy-to-press action with a light actuation force of 45g, creating a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Additionally, it is polished, indicating a refined finish that minimizes friction, further enhancing the overall experience. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use, making them appealing to typists who seek a pleasurable typing experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX EVA and KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches offer unique yet compelling attributes suited to different preferences. The EVA stands out with its resonant sound and silky smooth feel, appealing to those who appreciate a little character in their typing experience. Conversely, the Pipefish provides a neutral sound and a combination of easy press action and polished finish, catering to typists who value comfort and versatility. Despite their differences, both switches strive to deliver enjoyable typing experiences, ensuring that whether you choose one or the other, you will likely find satisfaction in their performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX EVA linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you're drawn to a distinctive aesthetic and a resonant sound signature that echoes the themes of Evangelion, the HMX EVA might be your go-to choice, particularly if you enjoy a smooth typing feel. Its light bottom-out force of 48 grams enables a soft and precise keypress experience. However, if you prioritize a straightforward typing journey with minimal strain, the Mannan Pipefish is an excellent option, offering an even lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams alongside its polished and easy-to-press design. It caters well to casual typists looking for comfort and responsiveness during long typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between these two comes down to whether you value a unique auditory and sensory experience with the EVA or a seamless and fatigue-free typing journey with the Pipefish.
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