TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Gold Brown Pro offers a subtle tactile bump that allows for a more immersive typing experience, with a quiet sound profile that keeps distractions to a minimum. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish provides a smooth linear action with a light 45g actuation force for effortless and strain-free typing. Both switches have their own unique benefits, making them suitable for different types of typists. 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro 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. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the switches. However, where they differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Gold Brown Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile.
Despite both switches sharing the same top housing material, the differences in their bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches is evident, with the nylon material contributing to a more rounded and duller sound profile for both the Gold Brown Pro and the Mannan Pipefish. However, the distinct qualities brought by the top housing material, polycarbonate, also come into play when releasing a key. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a resonant sound profile that enhances the typing experience on both switches.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Mannan Pipefish share similar top housing materials that result in a sharp and crisp sound profile, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder typing experience. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials on each switch enhances the overall sound and feel of typing, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch to the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is clear that the Mannan Pipefish is the lighter option. The Gold Brown Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish only requires 37 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Brown Pro has no specific information available, whereas the Mannan Pipefish requires 45 grams to bottom out, which is considered light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Mannan Pipefish may be the better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gold Brown Pro if its bottom out force is heavier. Ultimately, the actuation force and bottom out force of a switch play a significant role in determining the typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within a similar range of travel distances, the Gold Brown Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may appreciate the fast actuation of the Gold Brown Pro, while others may find the Mannan Pipefish's slightly longer travel distance to provide a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is described as having a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile. This means that each keystroke will have a deep "thud" or soft "knock" sound, providing a satisfying auditory experience without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch also has a neutral sound profile, ensuring a moderate sound level suitable for various environments. When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro offers a polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped typing experience, characterized by a smooth and refined finish, gentle resistance, and a subtle tactile bump. This creates a comfortable and approachable typing feel that is perfect for extended typing sessions. In comparison, the Mannan Pipefish switch is easy-to-press and polished, providing effortless key presses with minimal force required, resulting in a smooth and sleek typing experience.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is ideal for those who enjoy a subtle tactile feedback and a quieter typing experience, while the KTT Mannan Pipefish is perfect for individuals seeking an effortless and strain-free typing journey. Whether you prioritize sound, feel, or both, you can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either switch, as they both offer neutral characteristics that cater to a wide range of typists. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Mannan Pipefish will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a subtle and understated tactile feedback with a quiet sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience with a light actuation force, the Mannan Pipefish would be more suitable. Consider your typing style and what type of feedback and sound you prefer when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that best aligns with your preferences and typing needs.
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