Durock Ice King Linear vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear 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 Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT Mannan Pipefish both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ice King Linear is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a frictionless and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish is lauded for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience, with a smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, ideal for casual typists looking for a comfortable and strain-free keyboarding journey. These general descriptions provide a glimpse into what each switch has to offer; 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
52g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT Mannan Pipefish utilize nylon in their top housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on these switches. However, the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing will likely produce a duller and rounder sound compared to the Mannan Pipefish's polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in sound profile highlights how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience.
In contrast to the top housing, both the Ice King Linear and the Mannan Pipefish feature nylon bottom housings. This consistency in material means that typing on these switches will still elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing helps absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. While the bottom housing may not have as significant an impact on the overall typing experience as the top housing, it still plays a role in the sound profile and feel of the switch.
The differences in housing materials between the Ice King Linear and the Mannan Pipefish illustrate how subtle variations can impact the typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Mannan Pipefish creates a more resonant sound profile compared to the duller sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear. This distinction is particularly noticeable when letting go of a key, as the top housing plays a significant role in the sound. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound will depend on your personal preference when selecting a switch with a specific housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is evident that they vary in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice King linear switch has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, placing it in the medium range. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Mannan Pipefish switch suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. The Ice King switch, on the other hand, offers a more substantial push feel, appealing to users who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, the Ice King has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Mannan Pipefish has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mannan Pipefish has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, making it a better option for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Ice King's shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm may be favored by gamers looking for a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Ice King Linear switch is known for producing a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is described as having a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. Both switches are suitable for various settings, whether at home or work, and the sound can also be affected by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Linear switch is praised for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience, offering exceptional smoothness and reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Conversely, the Mannan Pipefish switch is known for being easy to press with a light actuation force, providing a comfortable and low-impact typing feel. Both switches offer smooth and refined typing experiences, with the Mannan Pipefish catering more towards reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Durock Ice King Linear switch emphasizes a silky smooth typing experience with its full nylon construction and factory lube, while the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch focuses on effortless and enjoyable typing with its smooth linear action and light actuation force. Depending on personal preference and typing style, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing needs. Whether you choose the Ice King Linear for its silky feel or the Mannan Pipefish for its easy-to-press nature, you can expect a satisfying and precise typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches, consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a medium bottom out force with a silky smooth typing experience and a subdued sound profile, the Ice King Linear would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force with a smooth linear action and easy-to-press keys, along with a neutral sound profile, then the Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you while typing.
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