Gateron Glory Red vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Red and the KTT Mannan Pipefish are two compelling options that stand out in the realm of linear switches. The Glory Red, known for its lighter feel within the Glory lineup, offers a smooth keystroke and a pleasing travel distance, making it ideal for those who prioritize an enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish boasts effortless and enjoyable typing with its smooth linear action and light 45g actuation force. Its lengthened spring design enhances comfort and precision, making it a fantastic choice for casual typists looking for a strain-free experience. While both switches cater to users seeking smooth linear feedback, their unique characteristics may appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Red Linear

KTT Mannan Pipefish Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$3.53

$3.05 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red switches and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches, a clear distinction arises between their top housings. The Glory Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile due to the material's softer texture. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate facilitates a more resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a clearer auditory feedback during their typing experience, especially when RGB lighting is involved due to its translucency.

On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches share a commonality. Both the Glory Red and the Mannan Pipefish use nylon for their bottom housing, reinforcing the deeper sound profile that this softer plastic provides. As a result, when pressing down on either switch, the nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel, ensuring a consistent sensory experience between the two switches at this level. Consequently, while the top housings create distinct sound profiles, the similar nylon bottom housing encourages a cohesive bottoming-out experience across both models, making them ideal for users who appreciate that deeper sound.

Ultimately, the differences between the Gateron Glory Red and the KTT Mannan Pipefish stem from their respective top housing materials, with nylon fostering a warm, rounded sound, and polycarbonate promoting a bright, crisp sound. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ties them together, resulting in a consistent tactile experience when bottoming out. This combination allows users to engage with two distinct auditory profiles while also enjoying a similar tactile feedback, depending on which aspect of typing they prioritize—sound clarity or sound depth. Thus, while each switch will produce its unique sound characteristics based on housing material, the acoustic and tactile elements work harmoniously to provide a blended experience in typing.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences among users. The Glory Red features an actuation force of 45 grams but lacks available information on its bottom out force, leaving that detail unknown. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Pipefish is generally easier to press down, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel, particularly for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. Meanwhile, the Glory Red, being heavier in actuation, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile feedback when typing, favoring a stronger push feel. Ultimately, if similar actuation forces were present, users might expect similar results in typing experience, but in this case, the differences highlight distinct preferences between the two switches.

Travel distance

The Gateron Glory Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference suggests a notable distinction in the feel of these switches; the Glory Red caters to those who prefer a quicker response with its shorter travel, making it more suitable for gamers seeking enhanced performance. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish, with its deeper travel distance, may provide a more satisfying and profound typing experience for users who enjoy a sense of depth and feedback in their keystrokes. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Gateron Glory Red would be the better choice, while the KTT Mannan Pipefish is ideal for those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Glory Red and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches, the Glory Red does not have a specific sound description provided, leaving it open to interpretation based on user experience. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish is described as having a neutral sound profile, which is typically moderate. This neutral sound makes it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in the office. Sound production can also be influenced significantly by the choice of keyboard construction and keycaps, so even with the Mannan Pipefish's inherently moderate sound, the final auditory experience may vary.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Glory Red is noted for offering a smooth keystroke and a satisfying travel distance, creating an enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish enhances the typing experience with an easy-to-press action due to its light actuation force of 45g. This feature not only reduces finger fatigue but also allows for a comfortable, effortless typing experience. Furthermore, the Mannan Pipefish is described as polished, implying a refined finish that contributes to reduced friction and smoother key travel. While the specific feel of the Glory Red is not as detailed, it is likely to offer a comparable smoothness, leading to an enjoyable typing experience with minimal resistance.

Overall, both the Gateron Glory Red and KTT Mannan Pipefish switches provide an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience, albeit with slightly different acoustic properties. While the Mannan Pipefish is characterized by its neutral sound and easy-to-press, polished feel, the specific sound and feel of the Glory Red remain more subjective due to a lack of detailed description. Nonetheless, keyboard enthusiasts can expect a smooth keystroke and comfortable engagement from either switch, making both options suitable for users seeking enjoyable and strain-free typing journeys.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, your decision will largely depend on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize an ultra-smooth keystroke with a lightweight touch, the Glory Red switches could be ideal for you, especially if you appreciate a less tactile and more minimalist typing experience. They are suitable for those who engage in rapid typing without the need for any significant resistance. On the other hand, if you seek a balance between comfort and a bit more tactile feedback during your typing sessions, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches might be the better choice. With a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, these switches provide a pleasurable typing experience with easier key presses and reduced finger fatigue, making them perfect for casual typists who type for extended periods. Additionally, their neutral sound profile makes them versatile enough for use both at home and in quieter office settings. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing style and the environment in which you plan to use your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

KTT Mannan Pipefish Linear

$3.53

$3.05 per 10

Learn more