Gateron Ink Red vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red 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 Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, both of which are linear switches. The Ink Red is widely recognized for its lower actuation force, making it an excellent choice for individuals with a lighter typing style. Its smooth and satisfying feel, coupled with a crispy and clacky sound profile, make typing effortless and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish boasts a smooth linear action and a lengthened spring, contributing to a comfortable and precise typing experience. With a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, it is perfect for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey. These general pointers showcase the unique characteristics of each switch, but let's take a closer look to determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Mannan Pipefish differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound due to the material's stiffness. The use of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting effects, making it aesthetically appealing. On the other hand, the Pipefish utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
While the Ink Red and the Mannan Pipefish differ in their choice of housing materials, they still provide similar results in terms of a satisfying and high-pitched sound. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend and the Pipefish's polycarbonate top housing both contribute to a relatively sharp and clacky sound. Additionally, the Pipefish's nylon bottom housing and the Ink Red's INK blend also produce a thin and higher-pitched sound. As such, users can expect a similar acoustic experience from both switches, with slight variations in tone and resonance due to the distinct properties of polycarbonate and nylon.
When it comes to the impact on sound and feel, the housing materials of the switches play a significant role. The bottom housing, whether it is the Ink Red's INK blend or the Pipefish's nylon, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. The softer nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing, whether it is the INK blend or the polycarbonate, affects the sound when a key is released. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper and crisper sound upon key release. Therefore, the choice of housing material in each switch determines the specific characteristics of the sound experienced during key presses and releases.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are notable differences. The Ink Red requires a higher actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Mannan Pipefish's 37 grams, making the Mannan Pipefish lighter in terms of actuation force. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ink Red is also higher, at 60 grams, compared to the Mannan Pipefish's 45 grams. This implies that the Ink Red provides a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience, whereas the Mannan Pipefish offers a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing experience for extended periods of time. However, if one prefers a similar result, they may opt for either switch since both fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have identical travel distances of 4 mm. This means that both switches require the same amount of force to be applied in order to fully depress the key and register a keystroke. Whether using the Gateron Ink Red or the KTT Mannan Pipefish, users can expect a consistent typing experience with a standard travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Red switch has a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This means it is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you use it at home or work. However, what sets the Ink Red apart is its unique chirpy sound, giving it a slight squeak that distinguishes it from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch also has a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various typists and settings. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, for these two switches, as they both have a neutral sound profile, you can expect similar results when it comes to sound.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Red is known for providing a silky and polished typing experience. It offers exceptional smoothness, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the Ink Red has a mild typing experience, making it approachable and comfortable for most typists. Its qualities stand in a safe, middle-ground zone, ensuring a pleasant typing feel. Similarly, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance during key presses. With a light actuation force, typing on this switch feels effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch also features a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. Both switches provide smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches provide desirable subjective qualities for typing. In terms of sound, they both have a neutral sound profile, ensuring a well-balanced and versatile experience suitable for most typists. When it comes to feel, the Ink Red offers a silky and polished typing experience with a mild feel, while the Mannan Pipefish provides an easy-to-press and polished feel. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort. Therefore, if you are looking for switches with similar results in terms of sound and feel, these two options would be suitable for you.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier actuation force, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its medium 60g bottom out force, it provides a satisfyingly smooth typing experience. The Ink Reds have a crispy and clacky sound profile, which some people find enjoyable. Additionally, they are effortless to type on, making them perfect for those with a lighter typing style.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter actuation force, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be the ideal option. Its 45g actuation and bottom-out force make typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Mannan Pipefish switch also offers a smooth and refined typing experience, thanks to its polished finish.
Both switches have a neutral sound profile, which means they are suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use them at home or work. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch will depend on your preference for actuation force. If you prefer a slightly heavier feel, go for the Ink Red, while if you prefer a lighter touch, the Mannan Pipefish would be the better choice. Overall, both switches offer enjoyable and strain-free typing experiences, ensuring a delightful keyboarding journey.
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