TTC Gold Pink vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the TTC Gold Pink and the KTT Mannan Pipefish. Both switches fall under the category of linear switches, offering a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience. While the Gold Pink is renowned as one of the lightest switches available, with a 37g actuation force, the Mannan Pipefish provides a slightly heavier typing experience with a 45g actuation and bottom-out force. The Gold Pink is perfect for those who prioritize speed and effortless typing, making it ideal for both rapid typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish is designed for casual typists who seek a comfortable and strain-free keyboarding journey. With its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light force, it provides an enjoyable and precise typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
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 TTC Gold Pink and the KTT Mannan Pipefish have similar housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for enhanced visual effects. Therefore, users can expect similar sound qualities and aesthetic benefits when it comes to the top housing of these switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Gold Pink and the Mannan Pipefish employ nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in typing. However, the nature of nylon differs slightly between the two switches. The Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound due to its relatively softer composition, allowing for greater sound absorption. Conversely, the Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing offers a similar deeper and fuller sound profile but with potentially less sound absorption due to its potentially harder composition.
The distinction between the top and bottom housings also plays a role in the overall experience of pressing down and releasing a key. The qualities of the bottom housing, which is responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, will be more noticeable when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the sound when letting go of a key will be influenced primarily by the top housing. Thus, the combination of these housing materials in both the TTC Gold Pink and the KTT Mannan Pipefish provides a comprehensive and well-rounded typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 37 grams and bottom out force of 45 grams, making them equally light. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke and the pressure exerted when pressing the keys all the way down. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, both switches would be suitable options as they enable longer periods of comfortable typing. However, for those who prefer a more substantial push feel, neither the Gold Pink nor the Mannan Pipefish would satisfy their preference as both switches have relatively light forces.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the key travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, the travel distance for both switches is the same, and you can expect similar results when typing with either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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, the TTC Gold Pink switch is best described as clacky. It offers a satisfying level of feedback, providing a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is described as neutral. This means it has a moderate sound profile, suitable for most purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These descriptors indicate a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with gentle resistance and a light typing feel. The Gold Pink switch is designed to provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Similarly, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as easy-to-press and polished. It offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink and KTT Mannan Pipefish switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Pink switch delivers a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, while the Mannan Pipefish switch provides an effortless and enjoyable typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Although their sound and feel characteristics differ, both switches prioritize comfort and precision, making them suitable options for various typing needs. Depending on personal preferences and requirements, users can expect similar results in terms of a light and comfortable typing experience from either switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have their own unique advantages. The Gold Pink switches are best suited for those who value a fast and effortless typing experience, making them perfect for rapid typing or gaming. With a light actuation force and a clacky sound, these switches deliver a light and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switches offer effortless and enjoyable typing with their smooth linear action and light actuation force. These switches provide a comfortable and precise typing experience, making them perfect for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey.
In terms of sound, the Gold Pink switches have their own unique sound profile, while the Mannan Pipefish switches are described as having a neutral sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink switches offer a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience, providing a seamless and uniform sensation. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switches offer an easy-to-press and polished typing experience, enhancing the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch depends on your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prioritize speed and feedback or effortless and comfortable typing, both switches offer their own unique benefits. Consider your specific needs and preferences to make an informed decision on which switch is best suited for you.
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