Gateron Ink Yellow vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Mannan Pipefish. Both switches belong to the linear category, but they offer slightly different characteristics that cater to various typing preferences. The Ink Yellow is best known for its shorter travel, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. This switch showcases a pleasant smoothness and clackiness, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a distinct tactile response. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers an effortless and enjoyable typing experience with its smooth linear action and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. It is perfect for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey. While these general pointers can help you in your decision-making process, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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 Yellow and the KTT Mannan Pipefish have distinct differences in terms of the sound profile they produce. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, which is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials result in a higher-pitched sound, the INK blend provides a slightly softer and less sharp tone compared to the polycarbonate. Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate in the Mannan Pipefish allows for clear housing, which is ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housing, there are notable differences between the Ink Yellow and the Mannan Pipefish. The Ink Yellow uses its proprietary INK blend bottom housing, creating a pointed and high-pitched sound similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound in comparison to the sharper and higher-pitched sound of the INK blend. These differences in sound characteristics can greatly impact the typing experience and user preference.
Although the materials used for the top and bottom housing differ between the Ink Yellow and the Mannan Pipefish, it is important to note that the qualities each housing material brings to the switch are split between the top and bottom. Pressing down on the switch will primarily showcase the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound produced when releasing a key is greatly influenced by the top housing. While the Ink Yellow and the Mannan Pipefish may have varying materials for their top and bottom housings, understanding how each material affects the overall sound profile is crucial in determining the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gateron Ink Yellow has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of force required. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Mannan Pipefish switch lighter in terms of force required for a keystroke.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch as it allows for longer typing periods, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. In this regard, the Mannan Pipefish switch might be favored due to its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. However, others may prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, would be the preferred choice.
In terms of comparable results, if someone desires a lighter force for their keystrokes, both the Ink Yellow and Mannan Pipefish switches provide that option. However, if someone prefers heavier forces, they would need to choose the Gateron Ink Yellow switch, as the Mannan Pipefish offers a lighter overall force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the preference and typing style of the individual user.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Mannan Pipefish has a slightly longer distance compared to the Ink Yellow. 4.0 mm is considered the more traditional travel distance, offering a more familiar key press experience. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow with its 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it favorable for gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation, resulting in more immediate keystrokes. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Mannan Pipefish more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth in typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow 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 Yellow 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
The Gateron Ink Yellow and KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches have different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel.
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is described as having a neutral and clacky sound profile. A neutral switch has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most users and purposes. The clacky nature of the switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile. This means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various use cases. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is characterized as mild and polished. A mild switch provides a gentle typing experience, with qualities that most people find approachable, as it stands in a safe middle-ground zone. The polished nature of the switch indicates that it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as easy-to-press and polished. This means that it offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. The light actuation force enhances the typing experience by making it effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch ensures a smooth and sleek typing experience with reduced friction.
Based on the available information, the Gateron Ink Yellow and KTT Mannan Pipefish switches have similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, ensuring a moderate sound experience suitable for most users. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. However, it should be noted that individual preferences and the overall keyboard setup can also affect the subjective experience with these switches.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch depends on your preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, smoothness, and a clacky sound, then the Ink Yellow switch would be a great fit for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a comfortable and precise typing experience, with a light bottom out force of 45 grams, a lengthened spring, and an easy-to-press feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch would be the ideal choice. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a polished finish, providing smooth and refined typing experiences. Consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force, travel distance, sound, and feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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