Dareu Holly vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Holly and the KTT Mannan Pipefish stand out as popular options with their own unique features. The Dareu Holly offers a tactile typing experience with its medium 50g actuation force, creating a distinct sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky elements. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish boasts a linear action with a light 45g actuation force, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. While the Holly caters to users looking for a balanced and distinctive feel, the Mannan Pipefish is perfect for casual typists seeking a comfortable and precise journey. 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
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Holly and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, it is evident that both keyboards use polycarbonate for their top housing. This commonality means that both keyboards will exhibit similar characteristics such as a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of both keyboards.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Holly uses nylon while the Mannan Pipefish also utilizes polycarbonate. The use of nylon in the Holly's bottom housing leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish's polycarbonate bottom housing may result in a clearer and resonant sound profile similar to the top housing, as polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and sound properties.
In terms of functionality, the different housing materials in the top and bottom of the switches will affect the overall sound and feel of typing on each keyboard. The characteristics of the bottom housing material will be more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in each keyboard contributes to the overall typing experience and sound profile, showcasing the unique characteristics of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in their performance. The Holly has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force for the Mannan Pipefish is 45 grams, which is also lighter compared to the Holly, whose bottom out force is unknown. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches reflects a varying typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Mannan Pipefish, which offers a more effortless keystroke. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Holly, providing a bit more resistance during typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences regarding typing force and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that regardless of whether you use the Holly or the Mannan Pipefish, you can expect to feel a consistent distance when pressing down on the keys. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall key press experience. Although they may differ in other aspects, such as actuation force or sound profile, the travel distance of 4 mm remains constant for both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 Dareu Holly tactile switch stands out with its unique blend of chirpy and clacky elements, offering a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. Both switches provide different auditory experiences, with the Holly being more distinct and the Mannan Pipefish being more versatile depending on personal preferences and setup.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Holly switch does not have specific descriptors provided, but it likely offers a tactile feedback given its tactile nature. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is highlighted for its easy-to-press quality, requiring minimal force for activation, and its polished finish for a smooth and refined typing experience. The Holly switch may provide a satisfying tactile bump, while the Mannan Pipefish offers a smoother and effortless typing feel, catering to different typing preferences.
Overall, if you enjoy a unique sound profile and tactile feedback, the Dareu Holly tactile switch may be the perfect choice for you. However, if you prefer a smoother and effortless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer their own advantages and cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey for users seeking a quality mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal typing style and preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you are looking for a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, then the Holly switch with its medium 50g actuation force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience with light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, then the Mannan Pipefish switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, whether you value the sound profile, actuation force, or typing feel, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing styles and preferences. It ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing habits when deciding which switch is best for you.
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