TTC Gold Brown vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Mannan Pipefish. The Gold Brown switches offer a balanced experience with a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. They have a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches, making them ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switches provide an effortless and enjoyable typing experience with their smooth linear action and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. These switches are perfect for casual typists who want a strain-free keyboarding journey. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make a fully informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches are nearly identical. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences from both switches when it comes to their top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the switches differ slightly. The Gold Brown switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is primarily due to nylon being a softer plastic and absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish also features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. Therefore, users can expect comparable sound experiences when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches.
It is worth noting that the top and bottom housing materials greatly influence the overall sound and feel of a switch. When pressing down on either the Gold Brown or the Mannan Pipefish, the qualities of their respective bottom housing materials will be felt, producing a more impactful and rounded sound. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound produced. Understanding these differences allows users to customize their typing experience based on their preferred sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gold Brown switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish switch has a lower actuation force of 37 grams, making it lighter to activate. Similarly, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Brown requires 63 grams, whereas the Mannan Pipefish only requires 45 grams. This means that the Gold Brown switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience overall, while the Mannan Pipefish offers a lighter touch. For those who prefer a significantly lighter feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch would be the better choice. However, both switches fall within the medium to light range, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for extended periods.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent and familiar feeling when pressed, with the key traveling a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Gold Brown or the Mannan Pipefish, you can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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, both the Gold Brown and Mannan Pipefish switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound level when typing. This makes both switches suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you plan to use them at home or in a professional setting. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience. The switch has a gentle typing sensation that is approachable for most typists. Additionally, the keystroke experience is smooth and fluid, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The Gold Brown switch also has an accented tactility, meaning that it has a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. Furthermore, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch provides an easy-to-press typing experience. It offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Similar to the Gold Brown switch, the Mannan Pipefish switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gold Brown and Mannan Pipefish switches have similar sound qualities, both offering a neutral sound profile. However, the Gold Brown switch provides a mild and buttery typing experience with accented tactility, while the Mannan Pipefish switch offers an easy-to-press typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on your preferences, both switches can provide delightful and comfortable typing experiences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a balanced and versatile switch, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be an excellent choice. With a medium bottom out force of 63 grams, these switches provide a satisfying bump while maintaining a moderate weightiness. The rounded sound profile adds to the overall enjoyable typing experience. Additionally, the Gold Brown switch offers a mild and buttery feel, making it approachable to most typists. This switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize effortless and strain-free typing, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is the way to go. With a light bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches offer a smooth linear action and a lengthened spring, ensuring a comfortable and precise typing experience. The easy-to-press nature of the Mannan Pipefish switch reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. These switches are also polished, providing a sleek and refined finish for smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch depends on your specific preferences. Consider your desired typing experience, whether you prefer a balanced and satisfying feel or an effortless and light typing experience. Both switches offer neutral sound profiles and polished finishes for a refined typing experience. Ultimately, select the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences to enhance your keyboarding journey.
Mentioned in this article
