Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the KTT Mannan Pipefish mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon in its construction, creating a creamy yet lightweight feel that is perfect for enthusiasts looking to hand-lube their switches. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish boasts a smooth linear action, light actuation and bottom-out force, and a lengthened spring for a comfortable typing experience, making it ideal for casual typists seeking a strain-free journey. Both switches offer distinct qualities that appeal to different users' needs and preferences; 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
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Raw and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, one noticeable difference is in the top housing. The Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend, providing a unique sound profile that is exclusive to these switches. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of the polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch. Despite these differences, both materials offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw stands out with its UMPE & Si blend, offering a specialized sound experience. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish uses a classic nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound compared to the stiffer UMPE & Si blend. While both materials contribute to the overall sound quality of the switches, they offer unique characteristics that appeal to different users.
Ultimately, the choice between the Keygeek Raw and the KTT Mannan Pipefish housing materials comes down to individual preferences. The Keygeek Raw's exclusive blends provide a one-of-a-kind sound experience, while the Mannan Pipefish offers a traditional yet reliable option with its polycarbonate and nylon housing. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer distinct advantages that cater to different typing preferences. Regardless of the choice, both switches promise a high-quality typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, they exhibit significant differences. The Keygeek Raw has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it is unknown, while its bottom out force is 57.5 grams, which is medium. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams, making it lighter than the Keygeek Raw, and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is also lighter. The lighter actuation force of the Mannan Pipefish may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, whereas the Keygeek Raw's heavier bottom out force might provide a more substantial typing feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired level of key press resistance.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Keygeek Raw switch falls into the category of shorter travel distances, making it ideal for gamers who prioritize quick response times. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feeling when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and whether you prioritize speed or tactile feedback in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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, both the Keygeek Raw and the Mannan Pipefish switches are described as having a neutral profile, meaning they produce a moderate sound level that is suitable for various environments and preferences. Factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used can also affect the overall sound produced. Moving on to the feel, the Keygeek Raw switch is known for its textured and slightly scratchy feel, providing a unique typing experience that some users may prefer. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch is characterized by its easy-to-press and polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. Overall, while the sound profiles of the two switches are similar, the Keygeek Raw offers a more textured feel, while the Mannan Pipefish provides a smoother and effortless typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the two switches to enhance their typing journey.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a light bottom out force, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The light 45g actuation force and bottom-out force, along with the lengthened spring, provide a comfortable and precise typing experience perfect for casual typists seeking a strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly textured feel with a medium bottom out force, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch would be more suitable for you. With its unique material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, these switches offer a creamy yet lightweight typing feel that is perfect for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches. Ultimately, your choice between the Keygeek Raw and the Mannan Pipefish switch will depend on your preferences for actuation force, typing feel, and overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
