PH Studio Jacaranda vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda 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 PH Studio Jacaranda and KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches are both excellent options to consider. The Jacaranda offers a unique bouncy sensation with its extended 22mm spring, making each keystroke feel dynamic and engaging. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish provides a smooth and effortless typing experience, with a light actuation force perfect for those seeking comfort and precision. While the Jacaranda is characterized by its clacky sound and high-pitched feedback, the Mannan Pipefish is known for its easy-to-press and polished feel. 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
39g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Mannan Pipefish share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, despite these similarities, they may exhibit differences in terms of aesthetics or specific design features.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda and the Mannan Pipefish may offer distinct qualities when it comes to sound profiles. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housing. This difference in material for the bottom housing could impact the overall typing experience, leading to variations in sound and feel between the two switches.
Overall, while both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Mannan Pipefish share similarities in their housing materials, such as using polycarbonate for the top housing, they may exhibit differences when it comes to the bottom housing material like nylon. These differences can affect the typing experience, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Understanding these distinctions can help users make informed decisions based on their specific preferences and requirements for a keyboard switch.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches provide a fairly light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. While the Mannan Pipefish is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, both switches offer a similar bottom out force, resulting in a consistent typing feel across both options. Overall, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mannan Pipefish, while those who prefer a slightly heavier touch might opt for the Jacaranda.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Mannan Pipefish would provide a slightly longer distance for key presses compared to the Jacaranda. The Jacaranda's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Mannan Pipefish could be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial key press depth. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, providing a balance between quick key actuation and a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp feedback with every key press. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and preferences. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, both switches can offer satisfying auditory experiences, with the Jacaranda leaning towards a more distinct and percussive sound, while the Mannan Pipefish provides a more moderate and general sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance and enhancing the overall smoothness of each keystroke. Conversely, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as easy-to-press and polished, providing gentle resistance during key presses and a refined finish for effortless and comfortable typing. Both switches prioritize comfort and precision, with the Jacaranda emphasizing smoothness and the Mannan Pipefish focusing on low-impact typing feel.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda and KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches each bring their own unique qualities to the table. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a bouncy and clacky typing experience with its extended spring and distinct sound profile, the Mannan Pipefish shines in its smooth and easy-to-press nature, catering to those seeking a strain-free and polished typing journey. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer reliable performance and comfort, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for users. Whether you opt for the Jacaranda or the Mannan Pipefish, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a bouncy sensation and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda with its 43.5g bottom-out force and extended 22mm spring may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value smooth linear action and a light 45g actuation force, along with a more neutral sound profile, the Mannan Pipefish could offer you a comfortable and strain-free typing experience. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to fully enjoy your mechanical keyboard setup.
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