KTT F2 vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2 and KTT Mannan Pipefish both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The F2 is characterized by its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, providing a comfortable typing experience with a medium-light weightiness. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish boasts a smooth linear action and light 45g actuation force, ideal for casual typists seeking a strain-free typing journey. While the F2 leans towards a subtler and subdued typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish offers a polished and easy-to-press feel. 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
43g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, while the F2 also uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing, the Mannan Pipefish opts for a nylon bottom housing. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile for the Mannan Pipefish, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than polycarbonate.
The difference in bottom housing materials between the F2 and the Mannan Pipefish significantly impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. While the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and crisp sound profile associated with the material, the Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound experience. The softness of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. This emphasizes the importance of not only the top housing material but also the bottom housing material in determining the overall sound profile of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice of housing materials for switches like the F2 and the Mannan Pipefish plays a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. While both switches benefit from using polycarbonate for their top housing, the distinction in bottom housing material between the F2 and the Mannan Pipefish leads to unique sound profiles for each switch. The stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the F2 contributes to a sharper sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing of the Mannan Pipefish creates a deeper tone. Understanding how different housing materials impact the overall performance of switches is essential for keyboard enthusiasts looking to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. The F2 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. The F2 requires slightly more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Mannan Pipefish. For those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Mannan Pipefish would be the better choice. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the F2 would be the preferred option. Overall, the F2 is heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out force, while the Mannan Pipefish is lighter. Both switches offer different experiences based on the desired typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the F2 switch. The 4.0mm distance of the Mannan Pipefish is more traditional, providing a deeper press, while the 3.5 mm distance of the F2 offers a shorter and quicker travel. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the F2 switch, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Mannan Pipefish. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance.
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 KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 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
In terms of sound, both the KTT F2 and Mannan Pipefish switches fall under the category of neutral switches with a moderate sound profile. The F2 has a distinct hollow sound signature, adding a tactile nuance to each keystroke, while the Mannan Pipefish offers a smooth and dampened sound when pressed. This means that regardless of the choice between the two switches, users can expect a comfortable auditory experience suitable for various settings.
Moving on to feel, the F2 offers a feathery typing experience with a lightly textured feel, perfect for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish provides an easy-to-press sensation with a polished finish, enhancing typing precision and comfort. Both switches prioritize comfort and effortless typing, ensuring a delightful keyboarding journey for users.
Overall, whether you opt for the KTT F2 or Mannan Pipefish linear switches, you can expect a comfortable and precise typing experience with moderate sound profiles. The F2 offers a unique hollow sound and lightly textured feel, while the Mannan Pipefish provides smooth linear action and low-impact typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing sensation.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force along with a distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured keystrokes, the F2 switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light bottom out force, smooth linear action, and a comfortable typing experience with minimal finger fatigue, the Mannan Pipefish switch is the way to go. Both switches offer neutral sound profiles, but the F2 provides a feathery, mild, or subtle feel, while the Mannan Pipefish offers an easy-to-press and polished typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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