Gateron Lunar Probe vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Lunar Probe and KTT Mannan Pipefish both offer unique features and benefits to enhance your typing experience. The Gateron Lunar Probe is praised for its novel dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, along with its incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation and subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish provides an effortless and enjoyable typing experience with its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, making it perfect for casual typists seeking a comfortable and precise 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their choice of bottom housing material. The Lunar Probe utilizes nylon for the bottom housing, while the Mannan Pipefish also opts for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing.
Overall, while both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the KTT Mannan Pipefish share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, they differ in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing delivers a different sound and feel compared to the Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing, showcasing how the housing materials can impact the overall typing experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light in comparison to other switches on the market. The Lunar Probe has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches have a similar lightweight feel, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Mannan Pipefish is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, but both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with minimal resistance. Overall, those who enjoy a lighter touch when typing or gaming would likely appreciate the feel of either the Lunar Probe or Mannan Pipefish switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Mannan Pipefish has a longer travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. A shorter travel distance is generally preferred by gamers for faster response times, making the Lunar Probe a good option for gaming. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish may be a better choice for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe switch is known for providing a subtle sound signature, while the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. Both switches seem to offer a moderate level of sound, making them suitable for various environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is praised for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, but specific descriptors are not provided in the information given. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is highlighted for its easy-to-press quality, offering gentle resistance and a light 45g actuation force for effortless and comfortable typing. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as polished, providing smooth key travel and reduced friction for a refined typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and KTT Mannan Pipefish switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lunar Probe switch promises stable and consistent keypresses with a smooth linear sensation, while the Mannan Pipefish switch provides a comfortable typing experience with its easy-to-press action and polished finish. Depending on whether you prioritize subtle sound, smooth key travel, or light actuation force, either switch could be a suitable choice for your mechanical keyboard setup. Keep in mind that personal preferences play a significant role in determining the best switch for your typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize stability and consistency in your keypresses, along with a smooth linear sensation and subtle sound, then the Lunar Probe may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a light and precise typing experience with effortless key presses, a longer spring, and a lower actuation force, the Mannan Pipefish could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure you have the best mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
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