Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a new mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Mannan Pipefish are two excellent options to consider. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch that offers a satisfying typing experience with its higher-pitched sound profile and tactile bump. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish is a linear switch known for its smooth linear action, light 45g actuation force, and comfortable typing experience. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is best suited for those who enjoy a bouncy and snappy typing experience, while the Mannan Pipefish is perfect for individuals seeking an easy-to-press and strain-free keyboarding journey. 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both keyboards share this material in their top housing, they may exhibit similar sound characteristics and aesthetic qualities.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two keyboards lies in their bottom housing material. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar sound profile and typing experience as the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. This similarity in material for the bottom housing may result in comparable sound quality between the two keyboards.
Ultimately, the choice of housing materials for a keyboard can significantly impact the overall sound profile and typing experience. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing in a switch can determine the sound when pressing down on a key versus releasing it. While both the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Mannan Pipefish differ in their bottom housing materials, the similarities in their polycarbonate top housing may result in comparable sound profiles and aesthetic appeal. Each housing material brings its own unique characteristics to the overall typing experience, making it essential for keyboard enthusiasts to consider these factors when selecting a keyboard.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. The bottom out force of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is also heavier at 55 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish bottoms out at 45 grams. This means that the Mannan Pipefish switch is overall lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Mannan Pipefish, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. In both cases, users can expect a smooth and responsive typing experience based on the force specifications provided.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly shorter than the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch's 4 mm travel distance. This means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a slightly quicker and more responsive key press compared to the Mannan Pipefish. Gamers and those looking for faster response times may prefer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro due to its shorter travel distance. However, for individuals who enjoy a more deliberate and deeper key press, the Mannan Pipefish with its longer travel distance may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is known for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, providing a delightful typing experience for those who enjoy a tactile switch. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is characterized by its bouncy and snappy feedback, offering a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming. In comparison, the Mannan Pipefish switch is known for its easy-to-press nature and polished finish, providing a smooth and low-impact typing experience. Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Lavender Purple Pro switch excels in tactile feedback and a higher-pitched sound, the Mannan Pipefish switch provides effortless typing with its smooth linear action and light actuation force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, then the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a light linear switch with smooth action, a lengthened spring, and a light bottom-out force for effortless and strain-free typing, then the Mannan Pipefish is the perfect fit. Ultimately, your preference for tactile feedback and bottom-out force will dictate which switch best suits your needs.
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