Outemu Lime (V3) vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the best mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, there are a variety of options available. Two popular choices are the Outemu Lime, a tactile switch, and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, a linear switch. The Lime switches are well-known for their unique combination of lightweight design, approachable tactility, and silenced operation. This makes them an excellent choice for tactile enthusiasts who appreciate a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers a smooth linear action, a lengthened spring, and a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. These qualities result in effortless and enjoyable typing, making it perfect for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches provide different sound profiles and aesthetics. The Lime's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffer plastic, resulting in a higher-pitched and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Lime and the Mannan Pipefish feature a nylon housing. This nylon material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, similar to the top housing. It absorbs sound effectively, creating a duller and rounder tone. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures consistency in the sound profile between pressing down on the switch and releasing the key.
When comparing switches with different top and bottom housing materials, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, the top housing has more influence on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile of the switches, with the top housing having a significant impact on the sound produced.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the lighter category. The Lime requires an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams, with the bottom out force also being 45 grams. Therefore, users who prefer the lighter feel for prolonged typing or gaming sessions would find both switches to be suitable options.
However, it's important to note that the Lime is slightly lighter than the Mannan Pipefish in terms of actuation force. The Lime requires 35 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish requires 37 grams to trigger a keystroke. This small difference may contribute to a slightly more sensitive typing experience with the Lime switch. On the other hand, both switches share the same bottom out force of 45 grams, meaning that the overall typing experience, in terms of pressing all the way down, will be similarly substantial for both switches.
Overall, if weight is a significant factor for the user, both switches offer a lighter typing experience. However, those who prefer an even lighter actuation force may find the Outemu Lime tactile switch to be the preferable choice. Conversely, if a slightly heavier actuation force is desired, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch differ by 0.7 mm. The Lime has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is on the shorter side compared to the more traditional 4 mm travel distance of the Mannan Pipefish. The shorter travel distance of the Lime may be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter distance allows for quicker key presses, which can be advantageous in competitive gaming scenarios. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial key press, the longer travel distance of the Mannan Pipefish may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on individual preferences for either a shorter, more responsive feel or a longer, more substantial key press experience.
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 Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Lime tactile switch produces a neutral sound with a muted profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level and is quieter compared to regular or clacky switches. The Mannan Pipefish linear switch, on the other hand, also produces a neutral sound. Both switches are suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience. It falls in the safe middle-ground zone, providing a gentle typing experience that is comfortable for most users. The feathery light actuation force of the Lime switch reduces finger fatigue and strain, making it suitable for extended typing sessions such as gaming, school, or work. Additionally, the switch has a subtle resistance and a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience.
Similarly, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is easy to press and offers gentle resistance during key presses. It requires minimal force to activate, providing an effortless and comfortable typing experience. The light actuation force of the Mannan Pipefish switch reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions and enhances the overall typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel. Similar to the Lime switch, the Mannan Pipefish switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, the Outemu Lime tactile switch stands out for its lightweight and approachable tactility, as well as its silenced feature. It is perfect for tactile fans who desire a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is known for its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and easy-to-press feature, providing a comfortable and precise typing experience. Both switches offer desirable qualities and can result in similar results in terms of sound and feel, ensuring an enjoyable keyboarding journey for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a tactile fan who desires a feathery light typing experience with some tactility, the Outemu Lime tactile switch would be the suitable choice for you. These switches are unique in their lightweight nature, approachable tactility, and silencing feature, making them perfect for those seeking a gentle and strain-free typing experience. On the other hand, if you are a casual typist looking for effortless and enjoyable typing, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be ideal. With its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light actuation and bottom-out force, it provides a comfortable and precise typing experience. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most purposes, and have a polished finish for smooth key travel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to whether you prefer a light tactile experience or a smooth linear action.
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