HMX Jammy vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jammy and the KTT Mannan Pipefish are both solid options to consider. The Jammy is known for its softer and glittery nylon housings, offering a typing experience that strikes a balance between muted and satisfying. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish boasts a smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, making it ideal for casual typists looking for a strain-free typing experience. While the Jammy falls into the category of soft switches, the Mannan Pipefish is classified as easy to press, neutral, and polished. Both switches have their strengths and unique qualities, making them appealing choices for different preferences. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
57g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the KTT Mannan Pipefish differ in their top housing materials. The Jammy utilizes nylon for its top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic and sound-absorbing properties. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The choice of material in the top housing significantly impacts the overall sound produced by the switches, with nylon offering a more muted sound compared to the clear, resonant sound produced by polycarbonate.
On the other hand, both the HMX Jammy and the KTT Mannan Pipefish utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This commonality means that both switches will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon's softer plastic and sound absorption qualities contribute to a duller and rounder sound. The consistency in bottom housing material between the two switches ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and profile. While the bottom housing may not have as significant an impact on the overall sound as the top housing, its properties still play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience of the switches.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, the differentiation between top and bottom housing in a switch design can lead to varied sound profiles and typing experiences. While the HMX Jammy's top and bottom housings both utilize nylon, the KTT Mannan Pipefish features a mix of nylon and polycarbonate, creating contrasting sound profiles between the two switches. The split in housing materials allows for different characteristics to manifest in the bottom-out sound and feel versus the sound produced when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in a switch design can greatly influence the overall typing experience and sound output, making it a crucial aspect to consider for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a higher actuation force of 57 grams compared to the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch with a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Jammy also requires more force at 63 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish is lighter at 45 grams. This means that the Jammy offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, making it suitable for users who prefer a heavier switch. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, making it a good choice for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Mannan Pipefish has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jammy. The Jammy falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast response times. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more steady and deliberate keystroke feel. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, so the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jammy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jammy for $2.99.
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 HMX Jammy switch offers a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, with a softer nylon housing contributing to a quieter sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and preferences. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the HMX Jammy provides a typing experience that is smooth and satisfying, thanks to its medium-weight and glittery nylon housings. In contrast, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring light actuation force. Additionally, the polished finish of the Mannan Pipefish switch contributes to a refined and smooth typing experience, enhancing overall comfort and reducing finger fatigue.
In summary, while the HMX Jammy and KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, they both provide enjoyable typing experiences tailored to different preferences. With the Jammy switch focusing on a quieter and deeply satisfying typing experience, and the Mannan Pipefish switch emphasizing ease of use and comfort, users can choose the one that best suits their typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches aim to enhance the typing journey for users, whether they are casual typists seeking a strain-free experience or enthusiasts looking for a specific sound or feel in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a medium bottom out force and a muted yet satisfying typing experience, the HMX Jammy linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, effortless typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer unique features and advantages, so consider your preferences and typing style when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Jammy and Mannan Pipefish switches depends on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you prioritize.
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