KTT Kang White vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Kang White and the KTT Mannan Pipefish are two popular options to consider. The Kang White is known for its exquisite representation of a linear switch, offering a dazzling typing sound. Its self-lubricating material ensures an unparalleled smoothness while typing. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers effortless and enjoyable typing with its smooth linear action and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. Its lengthened spring adds to the comfortable and precise typing experience. Perfect for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey. While these general pointers give an overview of each switch's advantages, 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Kang White and the KTT Mannan Pipefish have similar housing materials, with both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. With the top housing being the same, users can expect similar results when it comes to the sound and visual effects produced by these switches.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Kang White and the Mannan Pipefish feature nylon material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer nature allows for greater sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either of these switches, as the nylon bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel.
While the top and bottom housings of the Kang White and the Mannan Pipefish differ in material, the overall impact on the switches' sound profiles is split between the two. The bottom housing, made of nylon, primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a deeper and fuller sound experience. Conversely, the top housing, made of polycarbonate, influences the sound produced when releasing a key. This division allows for well-rounded sound characteristics in both switches, offering users a unique typing experience depending on the specific housing being engaged.
In conclusion, the KTT Kang White and the KTT Mannan Pipefish share similarities in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate to create a sharp and resonant sound profile. The switches also feature nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound experience. Although the top and bottom housings have distinct effects on the switches' sound profiles, users can expect similar results when it comes to the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Kang White has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly higher than the Mannan Pipefish's 37 grams. This means that the Kang White requires slightly more force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Kang White again requires a heavier force of 58 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish only requires 45 grams. This indicates that the Mannan Pipefish provides a lighter overall typing experience compared to the Kang White. Those who prefer a lighter and more effortless keystroke may find the Mannan Pipefish to be a better fit, while those who enjoy a more substantial and resistant typing feel may lean towards the Kang White. It's worth mentioning that both switches fall within the medium range, so if one desires a similar typing experience, either switch could provide similar results. Ultimately, the weight of the switch is an important consideration as it directly affects typing comfort and preference. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier switch, both the KTT Kang White and the KTT Mannan Pipefish provide options to cater to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is the same, both measuring at 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and key travel experience with both switches. No distinction can be made between the two in terms of which one is shorter or longer, as they share identical travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Kang White linear switch is well-regarded for its exquisite typing sound, which is described as low-pitched and dazzling. The low-pitched sound of the Kang White switch creates a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This adds to the overall pleasing auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. Neutral switches have a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of purposes and users. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the information provided does not specifically mention the feeling of the Kang White switch. However, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as having an easy-to-press and polished feel. Easy-to-press switches offer gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the polished finish of the Mannan Pipefish switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel enhance the overall feel of typing on these switches.
In conclusion, both the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have their own unique qualities. The Kang White switch is praised for its dazzling and low-pitched typing sound, while the Mannan Pipefish switch offers a neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the Kang White switch's specific qualities are unknown, but the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as easy-to-press and polished, providing effortless and comfortable typing. Overall, both switches provide enjoyable and comfortable typing experiences, catering to different preferences. If you are looking for a similar typing experience, either switch would be a good choice, depending on whether you prefer a low-pitched sound (Kang White) or a neutral sound profile (Mannan Pipefish).
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom-out force and a dazzling typing sound, the KTT Kang White linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its self-lubricating material provides unmatched smoothness during typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom-out force and a comfortable and precise typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is the right option. Its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g force make typing effortless and strain-free. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for beginners and advanced typists alike. However, the Mannan Pipefish stands out with its easy-to-press feel, offering low-impact and responsive typing. Additionally, it has a polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preference for force, sound, and feel.
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