Bsun Light Sakura vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two noteworthy options are the Bsun Light Sakura and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, both of which are linear switches designed to enhance typing experiences but cater to slightly different user preferences. The Bsun Light Sakura is prized for its ultra-light feel and silent operation, making it an excellent choice for those who require a discreet option for long periods of typing, especially in shared or office settings. Users seeking a gentle and fatigue-reducing typing experience may find this switch particularly appealing. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish stands out for its smooth linear action and its thoughtfully designed lengthened spring, providing a comfortable and precise feel with a light 45g actuation force. This switch is ideal for casual typists who are looking for a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey. Both switches have their unique strengths—comfort and silence versus smoothness and ease of use—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
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Light Sakura and the KTT Mannan Pipefish exhibit both similarities and differences that influence their acoustic and aesthetic qualities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of the polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant tone, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a precise auditory feedback when typing or gaming. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate housing enhances the visibility of RGB lighting effects, providing a visually appealing experience for users who enjoy customization in their keyboards.
In contrast, the materials used for the bottom housing of these two switches diverge significantly. The Light Sakura opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the crisp sound profile established by its top housing. This consistent use of polycarbonate contributes to a unified auditory experience when operating the switch, where both the bottom-out sound and the release sound retain that sharpness and clarity. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish features a nylon bottom housing, which is a well-known classic in the world of switch manufacturing. Nylon's softer plastic nature leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound, yielding a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, while the top housing of both switches delivers a similar sound quality, the bottom housing of the Mannan Pipefish changes the overall auditory character significantly.
The differences in bottom housing contribute to the overall typing experience, where the tactile response and auditory feedback vary depending on the combination of housing materials. In a switch with a polycarbonate top and a nylon bottom, like the Mannan Pipefish, users may notice a harmonious blend of the crisp release sound from the polycarbonate top and the fuller sound produced by the nylon bottom. Conversely, the Light Sakura maintains a more uniform sound with polycarbonate in both housings, providing a consistent experience from keypress to key release. This distinction becomes particularly important for keyboard enthusiasts who prioritize the nuanced differences in sound profiles, as the interplay of materials in a switch can shape their overall enjoyment and satisfaction with their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Bsun Light Sakura and KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches exhibit similarities in their actuation forces, both requiring 37 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, they differ slightly in their bottom out forces, with the Light Sakura reaching a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish has a heavier bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Light Sakura marginally lighter overall, as it requires slightly less force both to actuate and to bottom out. Users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions might find the Light Sakura more accommodating, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Mannan Pipefish due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, while both switches maintain a light actuation force, the Pipefish's slightly increased bottom out force offers a different tactile experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch differ in travel distance, with the Light Sakura measuring 3.6 mm and the Mannan Pipefish at 4 mm. This makes the Light Sakura the shorter option, which may appeal to users seeking quicker response times typical in gaming scenarios. Conversely, the Mannan Pipefish offers a longer travel distance, catering to those who prefer a more traditional tactile experience with a greater sense of depth. While both switches serve distinct preferences, the Light Sakura's reduced travel distance may be ideal for those prioritizing speed, while the Mannan Pipefish is better suited for users who enjoy a more substantial keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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 Bsun Light Sakura is designed to be a silent switch, making it particularly advantageous in settings where discretion is key, such as offices or shared spaces. Its quiet operation means that it won’t disrupt others nearby, allowing for a peaceful typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish features a neutral sound profile, which strikes a balance suitable for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. While both switches prioritize quieter operation, the Light Sakura is specifically aimed at low-noise environments, whereas the Mannan Pipefish provides a moderate sound that may be more adaptable to personal preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Light Sakura is characterized by its ultra-light actuation, offering a gentle touch that can greatly reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. This design promotes comfort and encourages prolonged use without strain. In contrast, the KTT Mannan Pipefish also features a light 45g actuation force, making it easy to press, and enhances the overall typing experience with a polished finish that ensures smooth key travel. The combination of these attributes results in a touch that is both effortless and refined, ensuring a satisfying experience for users who prioritize comfort and responsiveness.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Light Sakura and KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches cater to users seeking a comfortable and quiet typing experience, albeit with slightly different focuses. The Light Sakura excels in environments where silence is crucial, while the Mannan Pipefish offers a neutral sound profile adaptable to various situations. When it comes to feel, both switches emphasize light actuation forces, enhancing user comfort by mitigating finger fatigue. Ultimately, while they may slightly differ in sound characteristics, both switches promise a delightful, strain-free typing journey conducive to extended use.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Bsun Light Sakura and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches depends largely on your individual typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize an ultra-light feel and need a switch that remains quiet during use, especially in shared or office spaces, the Light Sakura is an excellent choice. Its design promotes comfort over extended typing sessions while minimizing distractions for those around you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a balance of smoothness and feedback combined with a slightly heavier yet still light action, the Mannan Pipefish might suit you better. Its easy-to-press mechanism and polished feel provide a delightful typing experience, making it ideal for casual typists looking for comfort during longer typing sessions. Ultimately, if discretion and lightness are your key requirements, go for the Light Sakura, but if you prefer smooth action with a touch of firmness, the Mannan Pipefish is the way to go.
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