Gateron Luciola vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish

Overview

The Gateron Luciola and the KTT Mannan Pipefish are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features for different preferences. The Luciola stands out with its eye-catching glow in the dark design, medium heft, and smooth and bouncy typing feel. Its sound profile resembles that of a hollow "can of spray paint being shaken." On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. With its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, it provides a comfortable and precise typing experience. It is perfect for casual typists seeking a delightful 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

Gateron Luciola Linear

KTT Mannan Pipefish Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$3.53

$3.05 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the KTT Mannan Pipefish differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound profile. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. However, if both switches have transparent housings, they are likely to have polycarbonate top housing, providing similar results in terms of sound when used with RGB lighting.

Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Luciola and the Mannan Pipefish exhibit differences in their sound profiles. The Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing offers a thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, typing on switches with nylon bottom housing creates a different auditory experience compared to those with INK blend bottom housing.

It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities brought by each material will be distributed accordingly. Pressing down on a switch predominantly emphasizes the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key is influenced by the top housing. Thus, while both the Luciola and the Mannan Pipefish offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, the way these materials interact with the key press and release can also contribute to different typing experiences.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Luciola has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Mannan Pipefish's lighter actuation force of 37 grams. This means that typing on the Luciola switch will require a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Luciola has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Mannan Pipefish has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. This indicates that pressing the keys fully on the Luciola switch will feel more substantial compared to the lighter and potentially less satisfying bottom out force of the Mannan Pipefish. However, if one prefers a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Mannan Pipefish may be the favored choice as its lighter actuation and bottom out forces allow for a smoother typing experience. Overall, while both switches provide a linear typing experience, the Luciola offers a slightly heavier and more substantial feel, while the Mannan Pipefish caters to those seeking a lighter touch.

Travel distance

The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have different travel distances. The Luciola has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mannan Pipefish has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Mannan Pipefish has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Luciola.

In terms of overall comparison, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances for keyboard switches. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most common and traditional, while a travel distance of 3.0 mm is on the more shallow end.

However, it is worth noting that in recent times, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. In this regard, the Gateron Luciola with its 3.6 mm travel distance may be more preferable. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation, which can be advantageous in gaming scenarios.

On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel, the KTT Mannan Pipefish with its 4 mm travel distance may be a better choice. The longer travel distance offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, which can be preferred for typing or other tasks where a more deliberate keystroke is desired.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Luciola and the KTT Mannan Pipefish comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance. Each switch offers a different typing experience, with the Luciola providing a quicker and more responsive feel, while the Mannan Pipefish offers a more substantial and deliberate keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a unique and satisfying experience. Described as "clacky," these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp and percussive feel. Additionally, they have a "chirpy" characteristic with a little squeak that sets them apart. On the other hand, the sound profile of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is more neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound that suits most purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so the overall sound experience may vary.

Moving on to feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch offers a smooth and bouncy typing feel. With a medium heft, these switches provide a responsive and lively experience. They are described as "snappy," indicating that they are super responsive with a longer or dual-staged spring that makes the typing experience feel more alive. Additionally, they are referred to as "buttery," meaning they offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Moreover, the Luciola switch is also described as "polished," indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.

Similarly, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers a comfortable and precise typing experience. It is known for being "easy-to-press," meaning it requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. The light actuation force reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, enhancing the overall typing experience. Moreover, like the Luciola switch, the Mannan Pipefish switch is also referred to as "polished," indicating its smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch provide excellent typing experiences with subjective qualities that may suit different preferences. The Luciola offers a unique and lively sound with its "clacky" and "chirpy" characteristics, while the Mannan Pipefish has a more neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the Luciola is known for its snappy and buttery typing sensations, while the Mannan Pipefish offers an easy-to-press experience. Both switches feature a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. It's worth noting that the overall experience may vary depending on factors like keyboard board and keycaps used.

Conclusion

In closing, to sum up the comparison between the Gateron Luciola and KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches, it is evident that both switches have distinct advantages depending on your preferences and needs.

If you value a medium heft and enjoy a smooth and bouncy typing feel, along with an eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, the Gateron Luciola would be an excellent choice for you. Additionally, if you prefer a relatively clacky, chirpy, marbly, or high-pitched sound profile, the Luciola would be a great fit.

On the other hand, if you prioritize effortless and enjoyable typing with a light actuation and bottom-out force, the Mannan Pipefish is the switch for you. With its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and low-impact, easy-to-press feel, the Mannan Pipefish ensures a comfortable and precise typing experience. Moreover, if you prefer a neutral sound profile, this switch will be a suitable option.

Ultimately, when deciding between these two switches, consider your desired typing experience regarding force required, sound profile, and typing feel. Assess your personal preferences and choose accordingly. Whichever switch you opt for, both the Gateron Luciola and KTT Mannan Pipefish Linear switches provide unique features that can enhance your overall typing enjoyment.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

KTT Mannan Pipefish Linear

$3.53

$3.05 per 10

Learn more