HMX Lotus vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and KTT Mannan Pipefish both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lotus, a linear switch, stands out for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish, also a linear switch, boasts a smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force for an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. While the Lotus is ideal for those looking for a satisfying and tactile typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish is perfect for casual typists seeking comfort and precision. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, the key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Lotus utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as a result of its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound produced by the switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Lotus and the Mannan Pipefish use nylon. This shared material results in a similar deep and full sound profile for typing on the switches of both keyboards. The nylon bottom housing's softer plastic composition allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound experience. Despite the differences in their top housings, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing provides a commonality in sound profile between the two keyboards.
It is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are distributed differently between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. This distinction showcases how the combination of top and bottom housing materials can work together to create a unique typing experience for each keyboard, highlighting the importance of housing material choice in keyboard design.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, which has an actuation force of 37 grams. However, both switches have a relatively light bottom out force, with the Lotus at 50 grams and the Mannan Pipefish at 45 grams. This means that while the Mannan Pipefish requires a lighter initial force to actuate, both switches offer a similar light resistance when fully pressed down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish may be the better option, while those who enjoy a slightly heavier actuation force may lean towards the HMX Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch. The Lotus offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking fast reactions. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish switch provides a bit more depth when pressed, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and key feel. Both switches offer different experiences, so choosing the shorter or longer travel distance will depend on individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 HMX Lotus switch is best known for its bright, resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each press. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is classified as having a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various environments and user preferences. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus switch offers a bouncy sensation with its medium weight of 50g bottom out, enhancing the typing experience with a tactile feedback. Conversely, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is recognized for its easy-to-press quality, requiring minimal force for activation and reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch also boasts a polished feel, providing smooth key travel and a refined typing experience. Both switches offer distinct tactile sensations, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the HMX Lotus and KTT Mannan Pipefish switches each exhibit unique qualities in sound and feel. While the Lotus switch provides a bouncy feeling and bright sound, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers effortless typing and a smooth, polished experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style. However, regardless of the selection, both switches promise a delightful keyboarding journey for users, ensuring a pleasant and comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, you should consider your preference for a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 50 grams with a bouncy and resonant sound in the Lotus, versus a lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams in the Mannan Pipefish with a smooth linear action and effortless typing experience. If you enjoy a more tactile and bouncy typing experience, the Lotus may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and precise typing experience with minimal finger fatigue, the Mannan Pipefish would be a great choice. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
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