Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the KTT Mannan Pipefish both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lightning Silver V3 by Everglide is favored for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, along with a silky typing experience and vibrant RGB illumination thanks to its light diffuser. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch boasts effortless and enjoyable typing with its smooth linear action, light actuation force, and comfortable typing experience suited for casual typists. 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
48g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the KTT Mannan Pipefish both feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish stands apart with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, offering a different typing experience compared to the Lightning Silver V3.
In terms of housing materials, both the Lightning Silver V3 and the Mannan Pipefish showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate. With its translucency and stiffness, polycarbonate delivers a distinct sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. However, the Mannan Pipefish sets itself apart with its unique choice of nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature provides a different sound profile that may appeal to users looking for a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Despite these differences, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their respective housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the KTT Mannan Pipefish both utilize polycarbonate in their top housings for a sharper sound, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The split between the bottom and top housings allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the crisp sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is evident that the Mannan Pipefish is the lighter of the two. The Lightning Silver V3 has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium force switch. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, positioning it as a lighter option. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 would be the better choice due to its heavier force requirements. However, for individuals who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, the Mannan Pipefish would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 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 Lightning Silver V3 would provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast reactions. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers a deeper key press with its longer travel distance, which may be more satisfying for those who prefer a more pronounced feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for travel distance and key responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement. The choice between these two switches would ultimately depend on personal preference, as the Lightning Silver V3 would be more suitable for those seeking a crisp and bright sound, while the Mannan Pipefish would be ideal for individuals looking for a more moderate and versatile sound experience.
Moving on to feel, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the KTT Mannan Pipefish offers an easy-to-press sensation with gentle resistance during key presses, making typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing experience. Both switches prioritize a comfortable typing experience, so users can expect a similar level of typing ease with either option.
Overall, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, accompanied by a silky smooth typing feel. Meanwhile, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press, polished typing experience. Both switches excel in different areas, catering to users with varying preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Lightning Silver V3 and the Mannan Pipefish will depend on the individual's preference for sound and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a medium bottom out force, along with a silky smooth typing experience, then the Lightning Silver V3 may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and an easy-to-press, polished typing feel, then the Mannan Pipefish switch could be the better option. Consider your typing habits, desired sound and feel, and overall typing experience when making your decision. Ultimately, choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard can greatly enhance your typing experience and overall enjoyment.
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